LDL 1

Overview

LDL 1 is one of the subfractions of LDL (low-density lipoprotein), which is often called “bad cholesterol.” However, not all LDL is equally harmful. LDL 1 refers to the largest and least dense LDL particles, often described as “large and fluffy.” These particles are less likely to get stuck in the walls of your arteries and cause plaque build-up, which means they’re considered the least risky form of LDL. You can think of LDL 1 particles like oversized delivery vans - they’re on the road, but they move more safely and are less likely to cause traffic jams in your blood vessels. Testing LDL subfractions like LDL 1 provides a more detailed picture of your cholesterol profile and cardiovascular risk than a basic cholesterol test. This is helpful for both men and women, especially those with a family history of heart disease or metabolic issues.

Testing Levels:

• High (0.5 mmol/L) - A higher level of LDL 1 - on its own - is usually not a concern. In fact, it can be a positive sign if other LDL subfractions (like small, dense LDL) are low. It suggests your cholesterol is being carried in a form that’s less likely to cause harm. However, if your total LDL cholesterol is also very high, your overall risk still needs to be assessed by a healthcare provider.
  
  
• Mid - Being within the reference range for LDL 1 usually reflects a healthy cholesterol balance. It means your body has a good amount of large LDL particles, which are less likely to contribute to plaque build-up and heart disease.
  
  
• Low (0.1 mmol/L) - Low LDL 1 levels mean your body is producing fewer of the “gentle” large LDL particles and possibly more of the small, dense LDL types. This pattern is associated with higher heart disease risk, especially if triglycerides are high and HDL (the “good” cholesterol) is low. This result calls for a closer look at your metabolic health and diet.

Why We Test LDL 1

LDL 1 helps reveal the type of LDL you have - not just how much. This can uncover hidden cardiovascular risk that wouldn’t show up in a standard cholesterol test. For people with normal cholesterol but high triglycerides, diabetes, or a family history of heart disease, this extra layer of insight can guide better prevention and care.

What Affects It

Diet is one of the biggest influences - eating too much sugar or processed food can shift your LDL profile toward smaller, denser, more harmful particles. Exercise, weight, hormone levels (especially in menopause), insulin resistance, and genetics can also influence your LDL subfractions.

How to Improve

If LDL 1 is high, that’s often a positive sign - especially if small, dense LDL is low. Maintain a heart-healthy lifestyle to keep the balance. If LDL 1 is low or close to low, focus on improving metabolic health: reduce sugar, increase fibre, include healthy fats, and exercise regularly. These changes can shift your LDL profile toward more protective particles. Work with your healthcare provider to assess your full lipid and metabolic picture and make personalised changes.

Common Name: LDL 1