Lipoproteinsare composed of a combination of lipid (fat) and protein.
They have important roles in transporting cholesterol and triglycerides to throughout the body.
Usually, medication and lifestyle adjustments can help improve these to a healthier level.
Illustration by Zoe Hansen for Verywell Health
What Is a Lipoprotein?
A lipoprotein is a molecule composed of lipids (fat) and protein.
You have many different types of lipoproteins, and they all have this basic feature in common.
For size comparison, a red blood cell is about 250 times the size of a low-density lipoprotein molecule.
Illustration by Zoe Hansen for Verywell Health
Whats the Link Between Lipoprotein and Cholesterol?
Lipoproteins carry cholesterol and triglycerides throughout your body.
These substances help regulate your hormones, energy, body temperature, and more.
Your body, especiallyyour liver, makes lipoproteins and cholesterol from substances in your diet.
Your liver breaks down cholesterol, and lipoproteins are broken down as your body uses them.
Often, excessively high or low levels of lipoproteins, triglycerides, and cholesterol occur together.
Types
There are over 20 different types of lipoproteins.
They are classified based on measurable factors, including density, size, composition, and testing characteristics.
The most common way to classify lipoproteins is based on their density.
Most other lipoproteins cause problems if their levels are too high.
Tests to Measure Levels
Lipoprotein levels are indicated on blood tests.
Astandard lipid profile testincludes triglyceride levels, HDL, LDL, and total cholesterol.
Other lipids and lipoproteins, like lipoprotein (a), can be measured with special blood tests.
Associated Conditions and Risk Factors
Several medical conditions can cause abnormal lipoprotein levels.
Also, abnormal lipoprotein levels can cause health problems.
Your diet contains the building blocks for lipoproteins.
Sometimes, eating foods that are high in fats can contribute to high levels.
You also can have a genetic predisposition that influences the amount of lipoproteins your body makes and accumulates.
Multiple factors contribute to your levels and health risks.
You might get some of your lipoprotein levels checked when you go for a routine medical checkup.
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