Q&A

Statins have been the cornerstone of cholesterol-lowering therapy for decades, primarily because of their proven ability to reduce low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and lower the risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes. However, not all patients can tolerate statins. Muscle-related side effects, liver enzyme elevations, and even increased risk for developing type 2 diabetes in some individuals have led many to seek alternatives. In fact, studies suggest that up to 20% of patients may discontinue statins due to adverse effects or intolerance. When patients stop taking statins, either due to side effects or concerns about long-term safety, they often lose the protective cardiovascular benefits statins provide. This has prompted significant interest in both pharmacological and natural alternatives that can effectively manage cholesterol levels without the common drawbacks associated with statins.

When people think of a stroke, they often imagine dramatic symptoms like sudden paralysis or slurred speech. But not all strokes present in such obvious ways. Some occur without any clear symptoms, which raises the question: can you have a stroke and not know it? The answer is yes. These events are known as “silent strokes” or subclinical strokes. They do not cause immediate, noticeable effects but can still damage the brain. Typically, these strokes are discovered by accident during brain scans done for unrelated reasons. Despite their lack of overt symptoms, silent strokes are not benign and may lead to cognitive decline, mood disturbances, and a heightened risk of future strokes.

High cholesterol is a leading risk factor for cardiovascular disease, the number one cause of death globally. While medications like statins are commonly prescribed to lower cholesterol, dietary choices remain a foundational pillar in both prevention and treatment. A well-designed low cholesterol diet can significantly reduce LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol levels, lower inflammation, and improve long-term cardiovascular outcomes. But the idea of switching to a “heart-healthy” diet often raises concerns about bland meals, dietary restrictions, and loss of enjoyment at the table. In reality, low cholesterol recipes can be delicious, varied, and deeply satisfying. When built on scientifically supported dietary principles, they can offer not just heart protection but better overall health, energy, and even mood. This article explains what makes a recipe “low cholesterol,” how it works to reduce cardiovascular risk, and what types of meals can support a healthier lipid profile without sacrificing flavor.

Statins are among the most widely prescribed medications in the world, used to lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke. Two of the most commonly prescribed statins are rosuvastatin (Crestor) and atorvastatin (Lipitor). Both are highly effective at lowering low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, commonly referred to as “bad cholesterol,” and both have been shown to significantly reduce the risk of cardiovascular events. However, there are subtle but important differences between the two drugs in terms of potency, side effects, long-term outcomes, and suitability for different types of patients. Understanding these differences can help patients and physicians choose the most appropriate therapy, especially in high-risk individuals or those with complex medical histories. This article explores how rosuvastatin and atorvastatin compare based on available scientific evidence.

Stroke is a major medical emergency and a leading cause of death worldwide. Public awareness campaigns have helped spread recognition of the most common signs, such as slurred speech, facial drooping, and weakness on one side of the body. However, one potential early warning sign often goes unnoticed: numbness in the lips. While this may seem minor or unrelated to stroke, a growing body of clinical evidence suggests otherwise. In some cases, isolated lip numbness can reflect damage to specific parts of the brain responsible for sensory processing. This article explores the clinical significance of lip numbness and its potential as a subtle but important indicator of stroke.

Heart attacks and strokes are two of the most devastating medical emergencies. For good reason, they are responsible for a staggering portion of global mortality and disability. Despite their frequency and severity, many people misunderstand how these events differ and how closely they are linked. They are often viewed as separate conditions. In reality, both stem from vascular dysfunction, share many of the same risk factors, and frequently occur in the same individuals. Up to 30% of stroke patients experience heart attacks during or after the event. Understanding the differences and connections between stroke and heart attack is critical for prevention, early detection, and better outcomes.

Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, more commonly known as a DEXA scan, is a specialized imaging technique widely used to assess bone mineral density (BMD). It is a non-invasive, low-radiation tool typically employed in diagnosing osteoporosis and evaluating fracture risk. Given its routine use, especially in aging populations and cancer patients undergoing certain therapies, a common question arises: can a DEXA scan detect cancer? While DEXA scans are not designed to directly identify or diagnose cancer, emerging evidence suggests that under certain circumstances, they may incidentally reveal signs consistent with metastatic disease. This article aims to explain what a DEXA scan is capable of, how it might relate to cancer detection, and what the research says about its diagnostic limitations and possibilities.

For years, LDL cholesterol (LDL-C) has been the standard for evaluating cardiovascular risk. It’s a familiar part of routine checkups and often guides treatment decisions. But LDL-C only tells part of the story. It measures how much cholesterol is present in the blood, not how many particles are carrying it. The ApoB test provides a more complete picture. Apolipoprotein B (ApoB) is a protein found on every harmful lipoprotein particle, including LDL, VLDL, IDL, and lipoprotein(a). Since each of these particles contains one ApoB molecule, the test gives a direct count of how many atherogenic particles are circulating in the bloodstream. This matters because it is not just the amount of cholesterol that causes plaque buildup in arteries. The number of particles that can enter the artery wall and trigger inflammation plays a more direct role in atherosclerosis. Someone can have a normal LDL-C level but still face high cardiovascular risk if they have too many small, dense particles. ApoB can help uncover that hidden risk.

Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death worldwide, and reducing that risk is a key goal of preventive medicine. Among the most effective tools available are statins, cholesterol-lowering drugs that have been shown to significantly cut the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and death in people with or at high risk for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). High intensity statin therapy, in particular, has become a cornerstone treatment for patients with high or very high cardiovascular risk. Yet despite their well-documented benefits, high intensity statins aren’t for everyone. Concerns about side effects, differences in patient risk profiles, and the availability of alternative treatments have led to important questions: Who truly benefits from high dose therapy? When is it appropriate to start with the maximum dose, and when might a gentler approach be better? And what options exist for those who can’t tolerate statins at all?

Cholesterol is a fatty substance your body uses to build cells and produce hormones. While necessary in the right amounts, excess cholesterol can accumulate in arteries and raise the risk of heart attack and stroke. Traditionally, doctors have focused on LDL (low-density lipoprotein) and HDL (high-density lipoprotein) when evaluating cholesterol levels. However, non-HDL cholesterol is increasingly recognized as a more comprehensive measure of cardiovascular risk. Non-HDL cholesterol includes all cholesterol particles that are considered atherogenic, meaning they can contribute to plaque buildup in arteries. Knowing your non-HDL cholesterol level provides a clearer picture of your long-term cardiovascular health and may help prevent serious disease.

A mini stroke, also known as a transient ischemic attack (TIA), is often misunderstood as a minor incident because symptoms typically resolve quickly. However, medical experts view it as a critical warning. A TIA results from a temporary blockage of blood flow to the brain. Although it does not cause permanent damage, it significantly increases the risk of a future, more serious stroke. For patients and caregivers, understanding the long-term implications of a mini stroke is essential for taking the right steps to protect brain health and extend life expectancy.

Lipoprotein(a), or Lp(a), is increasingly recognized as one of the most important hereditary risk factors for cardiovascular disease. While many people are familiar with LDL or HDL cholesterol, Lp(a) has historically flown under the radar. That is changing. More physicians are ordering tests for it, new treatments are emerging, and researchers are publishing large-scale studies showing just how significant this molecule can be. High Lp(a) levels are almost entirely genetic, meaning they are present from birth and remain stable throughout life. Unlike other cholesterol particles, Lp(a) is not meaningfully affected by diet, exercise, or most lifestyle interventions. This makes it a unique, and in some cases frustrating, part of cardiovascular risk management. Understanding how elevated Lp(a) impacts long-term health, and what can be done to reduce that risk, is essential for patients and clinicians alike.

A cryptogenic stroke is an ischemic stroke for which no clear cause can be identified, even after comprehensive testing. This term is used when routine evaluations fail to detect common sources such as large artery atherosclerosis, small vessel disease, or cardioembolism. As such, it is considered a diagnosis of exclusion. Cryptogenic strokes account for about 25 to 40 percent of all ischemic strokes. Despite not having an obvious origin, these strokes are real and potentially serious. They require the same level of care and prevention as strokes with known causes. The diagnosis can be frustrating for patients, but it simply reflects the limitations of current medical tools rather than the severity of the stroke.

Cholesterol-lowering medications are among the most prescribed drugs worldwide, and for good reason. High cholesterol levels, especially low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, are a major risk factor for heart attack and stroke. However, while many patients accept the benefits of lowering cholesterol, they often ask a critical question: which cholesterol medication is safest? The answer is not one-size-fits-all. Different medications have different safety profiles, and what is safe for one patient may not be ideal for another. Factors such as age, existing health conditions, and medication interactions must be considered. This article will walk through the safety data of the most common classes of cholesterol drugs based on recent scientific evidence, helping patients make informed decisions in collaboration with their healthcare providers.

Mercury is a toxic metal that can affect the brain, kidneys, and nervous system, and testing is important if you've had possible exposure through fish, workplace contact, or accidental spills. The right test depends on the type and timing of exposure.

Intermittent fasting has been widely embraced as a straightforward yet effective approach to weight management. Unlike traditional diets that dictate what to eat, this diet focuses on when you eat. But does the science truly back up the hype?

The first rule of weight loss is to stop obsessing over how much you weigh. Your total body weight consists of essential tissues like muscle and bone, and losing weight without understanding what you're losing can be counterproductive. A lower number doesn't necessarily mean better health; it's what makes up that number that truly matters.

Ozempic (semaglutide) has taken the world by storm as a trendy weight-loss solution. And while celebrities praise its ability to help shed pounds quickly, its most fascinating effect goes beyond weight loss. Ozempic has demonstrated real potential in reducing cardiovascular risks. This isn't just about looking better in the mirror; it's about adding healthy years to your life and significantly lowering your risk of a heart attack or stroke.

When it comes to lowering cholesterol, most doctors start with a statin. These medications have been used for decades, are backed by research, and work well for many people. But not everyone responds the same way. Some people see great results, while others experience little improvement. So how do you know which medication will work best for you?

Medications for chronic conditions, such as high cholesterol, often provoke strong opinions. Statins, widely used to lower cholesterol, are hailed as lifesaving by some and vilified by others. But how do you decide whether taking a medication is right for you? Instead of relying on anecdotes or media narratives, we advocate cutting through the noise with a structured, data-driven approach.

Chasing high cholesterol is a common approach to heart health, but it may not be the best starting strategy for some. Instead, it's important to know what the cause of the high cholesterol is and sometimes it's insulin resistance.

Sure, your favorite podcaster loves saunas. Peter Attia, Andrew Huberman, Rhonda Patrick, take your pick. But if you trace their advice back to the original research papers, it all stems from two Finnish scientists: Tanjaniina Laukkanen (researcher) and Jari Laukkanen (professor, cardiologist). The participants in their studies were predominantly middle-aged Finns (42-60 years old), hailing from a small Finnish town called Kuopio. As a culture, Finland is obsessed with saunas with around 60% of Finnish households having a sauna on-site. It's not surprising this is where most of the research originates.

Understanding your lab results is crucial to making well-informed health decisions. Traditional reference ranges, based on average values of a healthy population, define normal upper and lower limits for lab tests. While useful, these ranges can fall short in actually detecting the early stages of disease and extending lifespan and healthspan. This gap is addressed by the concept of 'peak health' ranges, which provide a more nuanced, individualized, and proactive approach to health management.

Early detection of cancer significantly improves survival rates. The Galleri test requires only a simple blood draw and scans for over 50 types of cancer. Known for its high specificity, the test does, however, have limitations in sensitivity, particularly in the early stages of cancer. Nevertheless, it offers invaluable information into potential cancer threats, especially for those genetically predisposed to the disease.

Most doctors will tell you a LDL Cholesterol of 100 mg/dL is "good", leading many of us to believe that we have eliminated the risk of this disease if we hit this number. But this one-size-fits-all approach grossly oversimplifies the complexity of cardiovascular risk and leaves many of us unknowingly at high risk for heart-related events.

The Coronary Artery Calcium (CAC) test is a powerful, non-invasive tool for assessing your risk of heart disease. It's a quick scan that measures the calcium buildup in the arteries of your heart, an early indicator of atherosclerosis—a condition that leads to heart disease. By providing a CAC score, the test offers a clear picture of your future risk of cardiovascular events. The higher your CAC score, the more calcified plaque you have in your arteries, increasing your heart disease risk. On the other hand, a score of zero indicates a low risk of heart disease.

Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) are powerful tools to help you manage healthcare costs. By understanding how these accounts work and how you can leverage them for services like those provided by Instalab, you can make significant strides in your health journey without breaking the bank.

When we think about heart health, many of us are familiar with the idea of "hardening" arteries or the buildup of calcium in the blood vessels. But there's another, more dangerous culprit lurking within your arteries that often goes unnoticed: soft plaque. Unlike its calcified counterpart, soft plaque can be more unpredictable and potentially life-threatening, even when you feel perfectly healthy.

We all get it: exercise isn't just good, it's foundational for longevity. But what about those of us pushing the limits, marathon after marathon, triathlon after triathlon? Can training for years at high intensity come with its own risks?

Today, cardiovascular disease affects approximately 127.9 million Americans, nearly half of the adult population. By 2050, it is estimated that 61% of adults in the U.S. will suffer from cardiovascular disease.

It's an exciting time to be involved in cardiovascular medicine. For years, statins have been the cornerstone of cholesterol management, effectively lowering low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels. However, many individuals still struggle to reach their cholesterol goals through lifestyle changes and statin therapy alone. That's where PCSK9 inhibitors come into play.

At Instalab, we're all about giving you safe, effective options for improving your health. While prescription medications for high cholesterol are necessary for some people, several over-the-counter supplements can also reduce LDL cholesterol; sometimes achieving results that rival those of prescribed medications.

AoB, short for Apolipoprotein B, measures the number of atherogenic particles carrying cholesterol in your bloodstream. Think of these particles, or lipoproteins, as delivery trucks. Whether a truck is large or small, it has one ApoB, making it a direct count of how many trucks are on the road. Here's the catch: even if your cholesterol levels look normal, too many ApoB particles can cause a traffic jam in your arteries, significantly increasing your cardiovascular risk.

Most people only hear about uric acid in the context of gout. But long before it triggers joint pain, uric acid interferes with blood sugar control, blood pressure regulation, and energy metabolism. If you want to protect your metabolic health, you need to get ahead of any elevated levels now.

For years, most people have accepted high blood pressure as a problem that needs pills to fix. And while medication is crucial for some, what if changing your diet could naturally lower your blood pressure?

Lp(a), or Lipoprotein(a), can be thought of as a tiny package of cholesterol in your blood, wrapped in a unique protein called apolipoprotein(a). It's a wildcard in heart health: Lp(a) levels are mostly determined by genes and don't change much with diet or exercise. High levels of Lp(a) can increase your risk of heart attack, but there's a catch: the amount of risk associated with high levels of Lp(a) depends on your ethnicity.

Plaque buildup in your arteries is one of the primary culprits behind heart attacks and strokes. A common misconception is that this buildup is inevitable, a one-way street where you can only hope to slow its progression. However, emerging research paints a more hopeful picture. Studies show that by lowering LDL cholesterol levels significantly, it is not only possible to halt the progression of plaque buildup but also to reverse it. In other words, the plaques in your arteries can actually shrink, opening the door to reduced heart disease risk.

Statins are among the most commonly prescribed medications worldwide for managing cholesterol levels. While their effectiveness in reducing cardiovascular risks is well-established, concerns about potential side effects often deter people from taking them. Here, we'll explore how statins work, assess their benefits, and weigh them against their risks to help you make an informed decision.

BMI has been the go-to metric for assessing and tracking health for decades, but can also be a bit of a BS metric. It oversimplifies your body's complexities by treating muscle and fat as interchangeable, ignoring fat distribution, and overlooking key factors like your unique genetics, age, and lifestyle. This one-size-fits-all approach often misclassifies health, masking real risks like visceral fat or metabolic dysfunction while mislabeling healthy individuals as overweight.

Most people think of DEXA scans as just a tool for measuring body fat precisely, but their true value lies in the deeper insights they provide. Visceral fat, muscle mass, and bone density are the three metrics that matter most. Together, they paint a clearer picture of your metabolic health, strength, and long-term risk for conditions like insulin resistance, fractures, and frailty.

With the rising interest in longevity, the internet has become oversaturated with both helpful advice and rampant misinformation about nutrition. Among the more heated topics is the debate over seed oils, with social influencers labeling them as "toxic". But let's take a step back and look at the science.

In today's world of ultra-addictive foods, the average American is practically overdosing on sugar. While the damage may not be immediately obvious, these sugar spikes cause inflammation and eventually snowball into serious conditions like insulin resistance, diabetes, and heart disease. For most patients at Instalab, this isn't news. We all know sugar is bad for us. But willpower is finite, and swearing off all sweet-tasting foods forever isn't a sustainable plan. Instead, we recommend finding an alternative that gives you the sweetness you crave without wreaking havoc on your metabolism and cardiovascular system.

As vaping becomes increasingly popular, particularly among younger populations, a pervasive myth continues to spread: the belief that there isn't enough evidence to confirm vaping's harm. But nothing could be further from the truth. Extensive research paints a very different picture, highlighting significant health risks associated with vaping.

In the startup world, sacrificing short-term comfort for performance has become a badge of honor. Among the first sacrifices is often sleep. While most of us understand how lack of sleep impacts short-term cognitive function, making it harder to focus and solve problems, few realize the deeper, long-term damage we may be doing to ourselves.

Sleep is one of the most crucial pillars of high performance, yet in the relentless pursuit of success, many patients at Instalab wonder: Can you train your body to need less sleep while maintaining peak health and cognitive function? Some claim that adaptation is possible, but research tells a much different story. While short-term sleep restriction can be managed, long-term reduction without consequences is largely a myth.

Naps have long been recognized as a countermeasure to sleep deprivation. And for many patients at Instalab who burn the midnight oil regularly, a nap can feel essential just to make it through the day. However, the science on whether napping is truly beneficial for sleep health and longevity is more nuanced than it might seem.

At Instalab, we believe nothing beats a consistently active lifestyle. Movement is medicine, and the more you do it, the better. But if you're strapped for time this week, you don't have to throw in the towel. Research shows that even short, strategic workouts can provide serious health benefits. Here's how to make every minute of exercise count.

While regular physical activity is essential for a longer, healthier life, its full benefits are only realized when combined with proper nutrition, sleep, and recovery. Ignoring these factors can not only reduce the effectiveness of exercise but may even contribute to negative health outcomes.

The reality is that the human body is designed to move, and even short periods of inactivity can trigger a cascade of physiological changes that affect your metabolism, cardiovascular system, brain function, and overall longevity. In many cases, it's surprising how fast different critical health systems begin to decline.

Ezetimibe (brand name: Zetia) is a widely used cholesterol-lowering drug that reduces the amount of cholesterol absorbed in the small intestine. It’s often prescribed on its own for people who can’t tolerate statins, or in combination with statins when additional LDL reduction is needed. Extensive clinical trial data shows that ezetimibe is generally very safe and most patients don’t experience serious side effects. However, post-marketing surveillance has identified a few rare but significant risks, including rhabdomyolysis and unstable angina. Although these cases are extremely uncommon, it's important to monitor in clinical practice.