When most people hear “cholesterol,” they think of a single number on a lab slip. But the truth is, heart risk isn’t defined by just your LDL or HDL. In this episode of Cardio Conversations with Jen and Ankit, we go beyond the basics to explore why cholesterol is more complex than it seems — and why knowing your numbers is only the beginning of understanding heart disease risk.

Dr. Ankitkumar Patel and Jennifer Abitabilo, APN unpack the latest science on cholesterol subtypes, from lipoprotein(a) to apolipoprotein B, and explain how inflammation plays just as big of a role as traditional cholesterol levels. We’ll highlight why two patients with the same “normal” cholesterol readings can have dramatically different risks, and how clinicians are rethinking testing and treatment strategies. Along the way, we also address common myths and misconceptions about diet, statins, and supplements.

Whether you’re a patient looking to better understand your lab report or a medical professional who wants a fresh way to explain cholesterol to your patients, this episode brings clarity and nuance. By the end, you’ll know why cholesterol is more than a single number — and you’ll walk away with practical questions to bring to your next doctor’s visit.