#55. ApoB & Lp(a): The Heart Tests Every Woman Over 40 Needs

93% of Americans are metabolically unhealthy — and women over 40 are especially at risk as estrogen declines in perimenopause. In this episode, Vesna breaks down two critical heart health markers most doctors never test for: ApoB and Lp(a). You'll learn why these numbers matter more than LDL, how your hormones are directly connected to your cardiovascular risk, the insulin connection most doctors overlook, and exactly what to ask for at your next lab visit.

Full blog post: https://www.nourished-alive.com/post/apob-lpa-women-over-40

How to Lower Cholesterol Naturally: https://www.nourished-alive.com/post/how-to-lower-cholesterol-naturally

Book your free Lab Prep Consult: https://www.nourished-alive.com/booking

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KEY TOPICS COVERED

• Why 93% of Americans are not metabolically healthy
• What ApoB measures and why it's more accurate than LDL
• What Lp(a) is and why 1 in 5 women has elevated levels without knowing
• How declining estrogen in perimenopause changes cardiovascular risk
• Why insulin resistance is the upstream driver of elevated ApoB
• The plant-forward foods that lower ApoB — backed by clinical trials
• The 6 action steps to take this week

LABS TO REQUEST — MENTIONED IN EPISODE

• ApoB — target <70 mg/dL with risk factors, <100 mg/dL low risk
• Lp(a) — target <30 mg/dL, test once
• Fasting insulin — optimal <5–7 µIU/mL
• HOMA-IR — optimal <1.5
• Triglyceride:HDL ratio — optimal <1.5
• Fasting glucose — optimal 72–85 mg/dL

DISCLAIMERThis episode is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making changes to your diet, lifestyle, or medical treatment.