At Sage Wellness, we go beyond standard cholesterol screening. Conventional cholesterol tests typically measure just three basic markers: HDL, LDL, and total cholesterol. While these numbers provide a general snapshot, they don’t tell the whole story.

With next-generation lipid testing, we look at dozens of advanced markers that assess lipoprotein size, density, and function—giving you a much clearer picture of your cardiovascular and metabolic health. This approach focuses on cholesterol quality, not just quantity.

Why Cholesterol Matters

Cholesterol isn’t inherently bad. In fact, it’s essential. Every cell in your body needs cholesterol to function properly. It’s the building block for hormones, vitamin D, and brain cells. Your body requires optimal levels of healthy cholesterol for:

• Brain performance and memory

• Hormonal balance

• Immune support

• Reproductive health

When Cholesterol Goes Out of Balance

Poor-quality cholesterol and dysfunctional lipid metabolism can contribute to a wide range of health concerns—not just heart disease. These imbalances may be early warning signs of systemic issues:

Common Symptoms & Related Conditions:

• Blood sugar imbalances and insulin resistance

• Chronic inflammation

• High blood pressure (hypertension)

• Low libido or sexual dysfunction

• Cognitive decline and brain fog

• Depression and mood instability

• Hormonal imbalances and infertility

• Fatigue and low energy

• Increased risk of stroke or cardiovascular events

Is High Cholesterol Dangerous?

It depends.

It’s not just the amount of cholesterol that matters—it’s how well it’s functioning in your body. Some people with “normal” levels still have heart attacks, while others with “high” cholesterol remain healthy. This is why advanced lipid particle testing is so important. It reveals the real risk factors, helping you and your doctor make more informed decisions.

Take Control of Your Health

Whether you’ve been told your cholesterol is too high—or too low—don’t settle for outdated testing and assumptions. Dr. Marie Andersson at Sage Wellness uses the most current, functional approach to lipid and cardiovascular testing to uncover the root causes behind your symptoms and support your whole-body health.