Small Dense Low-Density Lipoprotein Subfraction 6

sdLDL-6 is a type of small, dense cholesterol particle that can contribute to clogged arteries and heart disease. Higher levels mean greater risk.

📋 About This Biomarker

Small Dense LDL 6 (sdLDL-6) is a specific type of LDL (low-density lipoprotein) particle. LDL is commonly known as “bad cholesterol,” but not all LDL is the same. The small, dense forms like sdLDL-6 are particularly harmful because they are more likely to slip into the walls of your blood vessels and start building up plaques that can block blood flow. These particles are more prone to oxidation, which can trigger inflammation and increase your risk of heart disease and stroke. Measuring sdLDL-6 provides deeper insight into your cardiovascular risk than looking at total LDL alone. It’s like zooming in on the most dangerous part of your cholesterol profile.

🎯 Why We Test This

This test gives a deeper look into your cholesterol profile. Even if your overall LDL is normal, you could still be at risk if your sdLDL-6 is high. It helps identify hidden risks and gives your doctor a clearer picture for preventing heart disease early on.

⚠️ What Affects It

Diet: Diets high in saturated fats and sugars can increase sdLDL-6 levels.Weight: Being overweight or obese raises the chance of having more sdLDL particles.Lack of Exercise: Not moving enough reduces your body’s ability to manage fats effectively.Medical Conditions: Conditions such as type 2 diabetes, insulin resistance, and metabolic syndrome are strongly linked to higher sdLDL levels.Genetics: Some people naturally make more small, dense LDL particles due to inherited traits.

📈 How to Improve

If high or near high: Eat a heart-healthy diet (low in saturated fat and added sugar), exercise regularly, lose weight if needed, manage blood sugar, and consider medications if prescribed.If low or near low: Keep doing what you’re doing - continue your healthy habits and regular check-ups to stay on track.

📊 Understanding Your Results (mmol/L)

Low
Low levels of sdLDL-6 indicate minimal presence of harmful cholesterol particles. This is generally protective and means your risk of artery-clogging plaque is much lower. However, all other aspects of cholesterol and heart health should still be checked.
Optimal
If your sdLDL-6 is within the normal range, it’s a positive sign that you don’t have an excess of this harmful type of cholesterol. Your blood fats are better balanced, and your risk of cardiovascular problems is lower. Still, it’s worth keeping an eye on this and supporting heart health with a good lifestyle.
High (> 1.3 mmol/L)
Higher levels of sdLDL-6 mean there’s a greater number of harmful cholesterol particles in your bloodstream, which significantly raises your risk for heart attacks and strokes. It indicates that plaque may already be forming in your arteries or that you're on a path toward cardiovascular disease. Lifestyle changes and possibly medications are needed to reduce this risk.
Also known as: Small Dense LDL 6, sdLDL-6