Ulta Lab Tests

Heart Health & Cholesterol - Essential Lab Panel

The Heart Health & Cholesterol Essential Lab Panel includes 9 tests and 67 biomarkers to review cholesterol, heart health, ApoB, Lipoprotein(a), lipid ratios, blood sugar, inflammation, thyroid function, magnesium, blood health, liver function, kidney function, and cardiometabolic wellness. It includes a Lipid Panel with Ratios, ApoB, Lp(a), A1c, hs-CRP, CMP, CBC, magnesium, and TSH for a focused first-step heart health review.

Serum, Blood
Phlebotomist

Heart Health Essential Panel, Cholesterol Blood Test Panel, Essential Cholesterol Panel, ApoB and Lp(a) Panel, Cardiovascular Risk Panel, Heart Health Blood Test, Lipid and Heart Health Panel,

The following is a list of what is included in the item above. Click the test(s) below to view what biomarkers are measured along with an explanation of what the biomarker is measuring.

Apolipoprotein B

Also known as: CBC, CBC includes Differential and Platelets, CBC/PLT w/DIFF, Complete Blood Count (includes Differential and Platelets)

NOTE: Ulta Lab Tests provides CBC test results from Quest Diagnostics as they are reported. Often, different biomarker results are made available at different time intervals. When reporting the results, Ulta Lab Tests denotes those biomarkers not yet reported as 'pending' for every biomarker the test might report. Only biomarkers Quest Diagnostics observes are incorporated and represented in the final CBC test results provided by Ulta Lab Tests.

Absolute Band Neutrophils (Only Reported If Detected)

Immature forms of neutrophils are called neutrophilic band cells. Neutrophils are a type of white blood cell that is responsible for much of the body's protection against infection. Neutrophils are produced in the bone marrow and released into the bloodstream to travel to wherever they are needed. Large numbers of immature forms of neutrophils, called neutrophilic band cells, are produced by the bone marrow when the demand is high.

Absolute Basophils

Basophils normally constitute 1% or less of the total white blood cell count but may increase or decrease in certain diseases and are thought to be involved in allergic reactions.

Absolute Blasts (Only Reported If Detected)

Blasts are immature forms of white blood cells.

Absolute Eosinophils

Eosinophils (eos) respond to infections caused by parasites and play a role in allergic reactions (hypersensitivities)

Absolute Lymphocytes

Lymphocytes are white blood cells that exist in both the blood and the lymphatic system. They are divided into three types. The B lymphocytes (B cells) are antibody-producing cells that are essential for acquired, antigen-specific immune responses. The second type are T lymphocytes (T cells) some T cells help the body distinguish between "self" and "non-self" antigens while others initiate and control the extent of an immune response, boosting it as needed and then slowing it as the condition resolves. Other types of T cells directly attack and neutralize virus-infected or cancerous cells. The third type are natural killer cells (NK cells) that directly attack and kill abnormal cells such as cancer cells or those infected with a virus.

Absolute Metamyelocytes (Only Reported If Detected)

Metamyelocytes are immature forms of white blood cells.

Absolute Monocytes

Monocytes (mono), similar to neutrophils, move to an area of infection and engulf and destroy bacteria. They are associated more often with chronic rather than acute infections. They are also involved in tissue repair and other functions involving the immune system.

Absolute Myelocytes (Only Reported If Detected)

Myelocytes are immature forms of white blood cells.

Absolute Neutrophils

Neutrophils (neu) normally make up the largest number of circulating WBCs. They move into an area of damaged or infected tissue, where they engulf and destroy bacteria or sometimes fungi. Young neutrophils, recently released into circulation, are called bands.

Absolute Nucleated Rbc (Only Reported If Detected)

Nucleated Red Blood Cells (nRBC) ) the presence of NRBCs in the adult blood is usually associated with malignant neoplasms, bone marrow diseases, and other serious disorders.

Absolute Promyelocytes (Only Reported If Detected)

Promyelocytes are immature forms of white blood cells.

Band Neutrophils (Only Reported If Detected)

Immature forms of neutrophils are called neutrophilic band cells. Neutrophils are a type of white blood cell that is responsible for much of the body's protection against infection. Neutrophils are produced in the bone marrow and released into the bloodstream to travel to wherever they are needed. Large numbers of immature forms of neutrophils, called neutrophilic band cells, are produced by the bone marrow when the demand is high.

Basophils

Basophils normally constitute 1% or less of the total white blood cell count but may increase or decrease in certain diseases and are thought to be involved in allergic reactions.

Blasts (Only Reported If Detected)

Blasts are immature forms of white blood cells.

Eosinophils

Eosinophils are specialized white blood cells produced in the bone marrow and released into the bloodstream, where they normally make up only 0–6 % of circulating leukocytes. Their cytoplasm is packed with reddish‑orange granules that contain potent enzymes (e.g., major basic protein, eosinophil cationic protein) and inflammatory mediators. When the immune system detects large, multicellular invaders—such as helminth (worm) parasites—eosinophils migrate out of the blood and surround the pathogen, releasing these granule contents to damage the parasite’s outer surface and aid its destruction. Beyond parasite defense, eosinophils act as key orchestras of the allergic response. They accumulate in tissues exposed to allergens (airways in asthma, skin in eczema, GI tract in eosinophilic esophagitis) and secrete cytokines and lipid mediators that amplify inflammation, recruit additional immune cells, and contribute to symptoms like swelling, mucus production, and itching. Because of this pro‑inflammatory role, persistently elevated eosinophil counts—termed eosinophilia—can signal allergic disorders, drug hypersensitivity, or certain autoimmune and malignant conditions. Conversely, counts drop toward zero after glucocorticoid therapy or in acute stress states, reflecting the cells’ sensitivity to hormonal and immune regulation.

Hematocrit

Hematocrit is a blood test that measures the percentage of the volume of whole blood that is made up of red blood cells. This measurement depends on the number of red blood cells and the size of red blood cells.

Hemoglobin

Serum hemoglobin is a blood test that measures the level of free hemoglobin in the liquid part of the blood (the serum). Free hemoglobin is the hemoglobin outside of the red blood cells. Most of the hemoglobin is found inside the red blood cells, not in the serum.

Lymphocytes

Lymphocytes are white blood cells that exist in both the blood and the lymphatic system. They are divided into three types. The B lymphocytes (B cells) are antibody-producing cells that are essential for acquired, antigen-specific immune responses. The second type are T lymphocytes (T cells) some T cells help the body distinguish between "self" and "non-self" antigens while others initiate and control the extent of an immune response, boosting it as needed and then slowing it as the condition resolves. Other types of T cells directly attack and neutralize virus-infected or cancerous cells. The third type are natural killer cells (NK cells) that directly attack and kill abnormal cells such as cancer cells or those infected with a virus.

MCH

Mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) is a calculation of the average amount of oxygen-carrying hemoglobin inside a red blood cell.

MCHC

Mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) is a calculation of the average percentage of hemoglobin inside a red cell.

MCV

Mean corpuscular volume (MCV) is a measurement of the average size of RBCs.

Metamyelocytes (Only Reported If Detected)

Metamyelocytes are immature forms of white blood cells.

Monocytes

Monocytes (mono), similar to neutrophils, move to an area of infection and engulf and destroy bacteria. They are associated more often with chronic rather than acute infections. They are also involved in tissue repair and other functions involving the immune system.

MPV

Mean Platelet Volume (MPV) - When it indicates average size of platelets are small; older platelets are generally smaller than younger ones and a low MPV may mean that a condition is affecting the production of platelets by the bone marrow. When it indicates a high number of larger, younger platelets in the blood; this may be due to the bone marrow producing and releasing platelets rapidly into circulation.

Myelocytes (Only Reported If Detected)

Myelocytes are immature forms of white blood cells.

Neutrophils

Neutrophils are a type of white blood cell that is responsible for much of the body's protection against infection. Neutrophils are produced in the bone marrow and released into the bloodstream to travel to wherever they are needed.

Nucleated Rbc (Only Reported If Detected)

Nucleated Red Blood Cells (nRBC) ) the presence of NRBCs in the adult blood is usually associated with malignant neoplasms, bone marrow diseases, and other serious disorders.

Platelet Count

A platelet count is a test to measure how many platelets you have in your blood. Platelets help the blood clot. They are smaller than red or white blood cells.

Promyelocytes (Only Reported If Detected)

Promyelocytes are immature forms of white blood cells.

RDW

Red cell distribution width (RDW), which may be included in a CBC, is a calculation of the variation in the size of RBCs.

Reactive Lymphocytes (Only Reported If Detected)

Lymphocytes are white blood cells that exist in both the blood and the lymphatic system. They are divided into three types. The B lymphocytes (B cells) are antibody-producing cells that are essential for acquired, antigen-specific immune responses. The second type are T lymphocytes (T cells) some T cells help the body distinguish between "self" and "non-self" antigens while others initiate and control the extent of an immune response, boosting it as needed and then slowing it as the condition resolves. Other types of T cells directly attack and neutralize virus-infected or cancerous cells. The third type are natural killer cells (NK cells) that directly attack and kill abnormal cells such as cancer cells or those infected with a virus.

Red Blood Cell Count

An RBC count is a blood test that tells how many red blood cells (RBCs) you have. RBCs contain hemoglobin, which carries oxygen. How much oxygen your body tissues get depends on how many RBCs you have and how well they work.

White Blood Cell Count

A WBC count is a test to measure the number of white blood cells (WBCs) in the blood. WBCs help fight infections. They are also called leukocytes. There are five major types of white blood cells: basophils, eosinophils, lymphocytes (T cells and B cells), monocytes and neutrophils

Also known as: Chem 12, Chemistry Panel, Chemistry Screen, CMP, Complete Metabolic Panel, Comprehensive Metabolic Panel CMP, SMA 12, SMA 20

Albumin

Albumin is a protein made by the liver. A serum albumin test measures the amount of this protein in the clear liquid portion of the blood.

Albumin/Globulin Ratio

The ratio of albumin to globulin (A/G ratio) is calculated from measured albumin and calculated globulin (total protein - albumin). Normally, there is a little more albumin than globulins, giving a normal A/G ratio of slightly over 1. Because disease states affect the relative amounts of albumin and globulin, the A/G ratio may provide a clue as to the cause of the change in protein levels. A low A/G ratio may reflect overproduction of globulins, such as seen in multiple myeloma or autoimmune diseases, or underproduction of albumin, such as may occur with cirrhosis, or selective loss of albumin from the circulation, as may occur with kidney disease (nephrotic syndrome). A high A/G ratio suggests underproduction of immunoglobulins as may be seen in some genetic deficiencies and in some leukemias. More specific tests, such as liver enzyme tests and serum protein electrophoresis, must be performed to make an accurate diagnosis. With a low total protein that is due to plasma expansion (dilution of the blood), the A/G ratio will typically be normal because both albumin and globulin will be diluted to the same extent.

Alkaline Phosphatase

Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) is a protein found in all body tissues. Tissues with higher amounts of ALP include the liver, bile ducts, and bone.

Alt

Alanine transaminase (ALT) is an enzyme found in the highest amounts in the liver. Injury to the liver results in release of the substance into the blood.

AST

AST (aspartate aminotransferase) is an enzyme found in high amounts in liver, heart, and muscle cells. It is also found in lesser amounts in other tissues.

Bilirubin, Total

Bilirubin is a yellowish pigment found in bile, a fluid made by the liver. A small amount of older red blood cells are replaced by new blood cells every day. Bilirubin is left after these older blood cells are removed. The liver helps break down bilirubin so that it can be removed from the body in the stool.

Bun/Creatinine Ratio

A ratio between a person’s BUN and blood creatinine to help determine what is causing these concentrations to be higher than normal. The ratio of BUN to creatinine is usually between 10:1 and 20:1. An increased ratio may be due to a condition that causes a decrease in the flow of blood to the kidneys, such as congestive heart failure or dehydration. It may also be seen with increased protein, from gastrointestinal bleeding, or increased protein in the diet. The ratio may be decreased with liver disease (due to decrease in the formation of urea) and malnutrition.

Calcium

You have more calcium in your body than any other mineral. Calcium has many important jobs. The body stores more than 99 percent of its calcium in the bones and teeth to help make and keep them strong. The rest is throughout the body in blood, muscle and the fluid between cells. Your body needs calcium to help muscles and blood vessels contract and expand, to secrete hormones and enzymes and to send messages through the nervous system.

Carbon Dioxide

CO2 is carbon dioxide. Measures the amount of carbon dioxide in the liquid part of your blood, called the serum. In the body, most of the CO2 is in the form of a substance called bicarbonate (HCO3-). Therefore, the CO2 blood test is really a measure of your blood bicarbonate level.

Chloride

Chloride is a type of electrolyte. It works with other electrolytes such as potassium, sodium, and carbon dioxide (CO2). These substances help keep the proper balance of body fluids and maintain the body's acid-base balance. This is a measure of the amount of chloride in the fluid portion (serum) of the blood.

Creatinine

The creatinine blood test measures the level of creatinine in the blood. This test is done to see how well your kidneys work.

Egfr African American

Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is a test used to check how well the kidneys are working. Specifically, it estimates how much blood passes through the glomeruli each minute. Glomeruli are the tiny filters in the kidneys that filter waste from the blood.

Egfr Non-Afr. American

Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is a test used to check how well the kidneys are working. Specifically, it estimates how much blood passes through the glomeruli each minute. Glomeruli are the tiny filters in the kidneys that filter waste from the blood.

GFR-AFRICAN AMERICAN

GFR-NON AFRICAN AMERICAN

Globulin

Globulins is the collective term for most blood proteins other than albumin. Identifying the types of globulins can help diagnose certain disorders. Globulins are roughly divided into three groups: alpha, beta, and gamma globulins. Gamma globulines include various types of antibodies such as immunoglobulins (Ig) M, G, and A.

Glucose

A blood glucose test measures the amount of a sugar called glucose in a sample of your blood. Glucose is a major source of energy for most cells of the body, including those in the brain. The hormones insulin and glucagon help control blood glucose levels.

Potassium

Potassium is a mineral that the body needs to work normally. It helps nerves and muscles communicate. It also helps move nutrients into cells and waste products out of cells. A diet rich in potassium helps to offset some of sodium's harmful effects on blood pressure.

Protein, Total

The total protein is the total amount of two classes of proteins, albumin and globulin that are found in the fluid portion of your blood. Proteins are important parts of all cells and tissues. Your albumin helps prevent fluid from leaking out of blood vessels and your globulins are an important part of your immune system.

Sodium

Sodium is a substance that the body needs to work properly it is vital to normal body processes, including nerve and muscle function

Urea Nitrogen (Bun)

BUN stands for blood urea nitrogen. Urea nitrogen is what forms when protein breaks down. BUN measures the amount of urea nitrogen in the blood.

Also known as: A1c, Glycated Hemoglobin, Glycohemoglobin, Glycosylated Hemoglobin, HA1c, HbA1c, Hemoglobin A1c, Hemoglobin A1c HgbA1C, Hgb A1c

HEMOGLOBIN A1C

The A1c test evaluates the average amount of glucose in the blood over the last 2 to 3 months. It does this by measuring the concentration of glycated (also often called glycosylated) hemoglobin A1c. Hemoglobin is an oxygen-transporting protein found inside red blood cells (RBCs). There are several types of normal hemoglobin, but the predominant form – about 95-98% – is hemoglobin A. As glucose circulates in the blood, some of it spontaneously binds to hemoglobin A. The hemoglobin molecules with attached glucose are called glycated hemoglobin. The higher the concentration of glucose in the blood, the more glycated hemoglobin is formed. Once the glucose binds to the hemoglobin, it remains there for the life of the red blood cell – normally about 120 days. The predominant form of glycated hemoglobin is referred to as HbA1c or A1c. A1c is produced on a daily basis and slowly cleared from the blood as older RBCs die and younger RBCs (with non-glycated hemoglobin) take their place. This test is used to monitor treatment in someone who has been diagnosed with diabetes. It helps to evaluate how well their glucose levels have been controlled by treatment over time. This test may be used to screen for and diagnose diabetes or risk of developing diabetes. In 2010, clinical practice guidelines from the American Diabetes Association (ADA) stated that A1c may be added to fasting plasma glucose (FPG) and oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) as an option for diabetes screening and diagnosis. For monitoring purposes, an A1c of less than 7% indicates good glucose control and a lower risk of diabetic complications for the majority of diabetics. However, in 2012, the ADA and the European Association for the Study of Diabetes (EASD) issued a position statement recommending that the management of glucose control in type 2 diabetes be more "patient-centered." Data from recent studies have shown that low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) can cause complications and that people with risk of severe hypoglycemia, underlying health conditions, complications, and a limited life expectancy do not necessarily benefit from having a stringent goal of less than 7% for their A1c. The statement recommends that people work closely with their doctor to select a goal that reflects each person's individual health status and that balances risks and benefits.

Also known as: C-Reactive Protein, Cardio CRP, Cardio hs-CRP, CRP, High Sensitivity CRP, High-sensitivity C-reactive Protein, High-sensitivity CRP, Highly Sensitive CRP, hsCRP, Ultra-sensitive CRP

Hs Crp

A high-sensitivity CRP (hs-CRP) test may be used by itself, in combination with other cardiac risk markers, or in combination with a lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 (Lp-PLA2) test that evaluates vascular inflammation. The hs-CRP test accurately detects low concentrations of C-reactive protein to help predict a healthy person's risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). High-sensitivity CRP is promoted by some as a test for determining a person's risk level for CVD, heart attacks, and strokes. The current thinking is that hs-CRP can play a role in the evaluation process before a person develops one of these health problems.

Also known as: Lipid Panel with Ratios (fasting), Lipid Profile with Ratios (fasting), Lipids

Chol/HDLC Ratio

Cholesterol, Total

Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that occurs naturally in all parts of the body. Your body needs some cholesterol to work properly. But if you have too much in your blood, it can combine with other substances in the blood and stick to the walls of your arteries. This is called plaque. Plaque can narrow your arteries or even block them. High levels of cholesterol in the blood can increase your risk of heart disease. Your cholesterol levels tend to rise as you get older. There are usually no signs or symptoms that you have high blood cholesterol, but it can be detected with a blood test. You are likely to have high cholesterol if members of your family have it, if you are overweight or if you eat a lot of fatty foods. You can lower your cholesterol by exercising more and eating more fruits and vegetables. You also may need to take medicine to lower your cholesterol.

HDL Cholesterol

LDL-Cholesterol

LDL/HDL Ratio

Non HDL Cholesterol

Triglycerides

Triglycerides are a form of fat and a major source of energy for the body. This test measures the amount of triglycerides in the blood. Most triglycerides are found in fat (adipose) tissue, but some triglycerides circulate in the blood to provide fuel for muscles to work. After a person eats, an increased level of triglycerides is found in the blood as the body converts the energy not needed right away into fat. Triglycerides move via the blood from the gut to adipose tissue for storage. In between meals, triglycerides are released from fat tissue to be used as an energy source for the body. Most triglycerides are carried in the blood by lipoproteins called very low density lipoproteins (VLDL). High levels of triglycerides in the blood are associated with an increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease (CVD), although the reason for this is not well understood. Certain factors can contribute to high triglyceride levels and to risk of CVD, including lack of exercise, being overweight, smoking cigarettes, consuming excess alcohol, and medical conditions such as diabetes and kidney disease.

Also known as: Lipoprotein A, Lp (a), Lp(a)

Lipoprotein (A)

Lipoprotein-a, or Lp(a) are molecules made of proteins and fat. They carry cholesterol and similar substances through the blood. A high level of Lp(a) is considered a risk factor for heart disease. High levels of lipoproteins can increase the risk of heart disease. The test is done to check your risk of atherosclerosis, stroke, and heart attack.

Magnesium

Also known as: Thyroid Stimulating Hormone Test, Thyrotropin Test

TSH

A TSH test is a lab test that measures the amount of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) in your blood. TSH is produced by the pituitary gland. It tells the thyroid gland to make and release thyroid hormones into the blood.
*Important Information on Lab Test Processing Times: Ulta Lab Tests is committed to informing you about the processing times for your lab tests processed through a national lab. Please note that the estimated processing time for each test, indicated in business days, is based on data from the past 30 days across the 13 laboratories for each test. These estimates are intended to serve as a guide and are not guarantees. Factors such as laboratory workload, weather conditions, holidays, and the need for additional testing or maintenance can influence actual processing times. We aim to offer estimates to help you plan accordingly. Please understand that these times may vary, and processing times are not guaranteed. Thank you for choosing Ulta Lab Tests for your laboratory needs.

The Heart Health & Cholesterol - Essential Lab Panel panel contains 9 tests with 67 biomarkers .

Overview

The Heart Health & Cholesterol Essential Lab Panel is designed for people who want a focused first-step review of cholesterol, heart health, inflammation, blood sugar, thyroid function, magnesium status, and general cardiometabolic wellness.

Heart health is influenced by more than total cholesterol alone. LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, triglycerides, cholesterol ratios, ApoB, Lipoprotein(a), blood sugar, inflammation, thyroid function, magnesium, liver function, kidney function, and blood health can all provide useful context for a provider-guided cardiovascular risk discussion.

This Essential panel includes foundational and high-value heart health markers: Lipid Panel with Ratios, Apolipoprotein B, Lipoprotein(a), Hemoglobin A1c, hs-CRP, Comprehensive Metabolic Panel, CBC, magnesium, and TSH.

This panel does not diagnose heart disease, heart attack, stroke risk, plaque buildup, or cardiovascular disease by itself. Results should be reviewed with a licensed healthcare provider and interpreted with age, sex, blood pressure, smoking history, diabetes status, family history, medications, symptoms, imaging history, and overall health history.

Why Order This Panel?

The Heart Health & Cholesterol Essential Lab Panel may be helpful for people who want more than a basic cholesterol test but do not need the full Advanced or Comprehensive heart health panel.

This panel may help provide insight into:

  • Total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and triglycerides
  • Cholesterol ratios that may support risk discussion
  • ApoB particle-related cholesterol risk
  • Lipoprotein(a), an inherited cardiovascular risk marker
  • Blood sugar patterns with Hemoglobin A1c
  • Low-grade inflammation with hs-CRP
  • Thyroid function that may affect cholesterol
  • Magnesium status related to cardiometabolic wellness
  • Liver, kidney, electrolyte, glucose, calcium, albumin, and protein markers
  • Blood count and platelet patterns

This Panel May Be Helpful For People With

  • High cholesterol
  • High LDL cholesterol
  • High triglycerides
  • Low HDL cholesterol
  • Family history of heart disease
  • Family history of early heart attack or stroke
  • Known or suspected elevated Lipoprotein(a)
  • Prediabetes or blood sugar concerns
  • Inflammation concerns
  • Thyroid symptoms with cholesterol concerns
  • High blood pressure or metabolic risk
  • Interest in a focused heart health baseline
  • Desire for a deeper cholesterol review than a standard lipid panel alone

What This Panel Helps Evaluate

This panel helps evaluate selected biomarkers related to:

  • Heart health and cholesterol
  • LDL, HDL, triglycerides, and cholesterol ratios
  • ApoB and atherogenic particle burden
  • Lipoprotein(a) inherited cardiovascular risk
  • Blood sugar and A1c patterns
  • Low-grade inflammation
  • Thyroid-related cholesterol patterns
  • Magnesium status
  • Liver and kidney function
  • Electrolyte and metabolic balance
  • Blood count and platelet patterns
  • General cardiometabolic wellness

Which Tier Is Right for Me?

Essential Lab Panel

The Heart Health & Cholesterol Essential Lab Panel is best for people who want a focused starting point for cholesterol, ApoB, Lipoprotein(a), blood sugar, inflammation, thyroid screening, magnesium, liver and kidney function, and basic blood health.

Choose Essential if you want a practical first step for cholesterol and cardiometabolic risk review.

Advanced Lab Panel

The Heart Health & Cholesterol Advanced Lab Panel is best for people who want deeper insight into ApoA1, ApoB, Lp(a), lipoprotein particle patterns, insulin resistance, C-peptide, kidney and urine vascular risk, B-vitamin and homocysteine patterns, iron status, thyroid function, GGT, uric acid, vitamin D, omega fatty acids, and statin-related muscle context.

Choose Advanced if you have high cholesterol, family history of heart disease, insulin resistance, high triglycerides, statin use, thyroid concerns, kidney risk, or cardiometabolic risk.

Comprehensive Lab Panel

The Heart Health & Cholesterol Comprehensive Lab Panel is the broadest option. It includes the Essential and Advanced categories and may add premium cardiovascular markers such as Lp-PLA2 activity, MPO, OxLDL, fibrinogen, CoQ10, Free T3, thyroid antibodies, proBNP, and Troponin I for physician-guided advanced cardiovascular review.

Choose Comprehensive if you want the deepest review of cholesterol particle risk, inherited risk, vascular inflammation, oxidative LDL stress, insulin resistance, thyroid-lipid contributors, kidney risk, omega status, and advanced cardiovascular biomarkers.

Tests Included and Why They Matter

Core Cholesterol, ApoB & Lipoprotein Risk

This group evaluates cholesterol, triglycerides, cholesterol ratios, ApoB particle burden, and inherited Lipoprotein(a) risk. These markers provide more useful heart health context than total cholesterol alone.

Lipid Panel with Ratios

The Lipid Panel with Ratios evaluates total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, triglycerides, and cholesterol ratios.

This test is included because it is the foundation of cholesterol and heart health testing. LDL cholesterol and triglycerides can provide insight into atherogenic cholesterol burden and metabolic health, while HDL cholesterol and ratios provide additional cardiovascular context.

This test may help support discussions about cholesterol patterns, triglyceride levels, HDL balance, LDL cholesterol, and overall cardiometabolic risk.

Apolipoprotein B

Apolipoprotein B, or ApoB, reflects the number of atherogenic cholesterol-carrying particles.

This test is included because ApoB may provide deeper risk context than LDL cholesterol alone. Some people can have LDL cholesterol that appears acceptable while still having a higher number of cholesterol-carrying particles. ApoB helps estimate particle burden that may contribute to plaque formation.

ApoB is one of the most valuable additions to a heart health panel because it helps move the discussion beyond standard cholesterol values.

Lipoprotein(a)

Lipoprotein(a), or Lp(a), is an inherited cholesterol-related marker.

This test is included because elevated Lp(a) can add cardiovascular risk that may not be obvious from a standard lipid panel. Lp(a) is especially useful for people with a family history of early heart disease, stroke, high cholesterol, or unexplained cardiovascular risk.

Because Lp(a) is largely genetic, it is often useful as a baseline marker to discuss with a healthcare provider.

Blood Sugar & Cardiometabolic Risk

Blood sugar and cardiovascular risk are closely connected. Elevated blood sugar and prediabetes patterns can increase cardiometabolic risk and may overlap with high triglycerides, abdominal weight gain, inflammation, and metabolic syndrome.

Hemoglobin A1c

Hemoglobin A1c measures average blood sugar over approximately the past two to three months.

This test is included because diabetes and prediabetes are important cardiovascular risk factors. A1c provides a longer-term view of blood sugar patterns that may be relevant to heart health, weight, energy, and metabolic wellness.

A1c can help identify glucose patterns that may not be obvious from a single fasting glucose result.

Inflammation & Vascular Wellness

Low-grade inflammation can affect cardiometabolic health and may overlap with cholesterol patterns, insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome, and vascular risk.

hs-CRP

High-sensitivity C-reactive protein is a marker of low-grade inflammation.

This test is included because inflammation may provide useful context for cardiometabolic risk, metabolic syndrome, vascular wellness, and overall heart health. hs-CRP does not identify the cause of inflammation by itself, but it can help support a broader provider-guided cardiovascular risk discussion.

hs-CRP should be interpreted with symptoms, medical history, medications, recent illness, body composition, and other lab findings.

Thyroid Function & Secondary Cholesterol Contributors

Thyroid function can influence cholesterol, triglycerides, metabolism, heart rhythm, energy, weight, and cardiovascular wellness. This group helps identify thyroid-related patterns that may contribute to abnormal cholesterol or metabolic symptoms.

TSH

TSH is a key thyroid screening marker.

This test is included because low thyroid function may contribute to high cholesterol, fatigue, weight changes, cold intolerance, constipation, low energy, and slowed metabolism. TSH is an important baseline marker when reviewing lipid patterns and cardiometabolic wellness.

Including TSH helps determine whether thyroid function may be part of the cholesterol and metabolism discussion.

Liver, Kidney, Electrolyte & Metabolic Context

Heart health review benefits from understanding liver function, kidney function, electrolytes, calcium, albumin, protein status, and glucose. These markers help provide the broader metabolic context behind cholesterol and cardiovascular risk.

Comprehensive Metabolic Panel, CMP

The CMP evaluates glucose, liver function, kidney function, electrolytes, calcium, albumin, total protein, and other metabolic markers.

This test is included because cardiovascular risk review benefits from a broad metabolic and organ-function baseline. CMP results provide context for glucose, kidney function, liver enzymes, electrolytes, calcium, albumin, and protein status.

The liver is central to cholesterol processing, while kidney function and glucose patterns are important parts of cardiometabolic risk review.

Magnesium & Cardiometabolic Support

Magnesium is involved in many processes related to heart and metabolic wellness, including blood pressure regulation, glucose metabolism, muscle function, nerve signaling, and heart rhythm.

Magnesium

Magnesium supports blood pressure regulation, glucose metabolism, muscle function, nerve signaling, and heart rhythm.

This test is included because magnesium may provide useful cardiometabolic context, especially when blood pressure, insulin resistance, muscle symptoms, or supplement use are part of the discussion.

Magnesium status can also provide insight into overall nutrient and metabolic wellness.

Blood Health & General Wellness

Heart health is not only about cholesterol. Blood count patterns, anemia, inflammation clues, immune findings, and platelet patterns may add useful context to overall wellness and cardiovascular review.

CBC, includes Differential and Platelets

The CBC evaluates red blood cells, white blood cells, hemoglobin, hematocrit, platelets, and white blood cell types.

This test is included because general blood health, anemia patterns, inflammation clues, immune findings, and platelet patterns can add context to cardiovascular wellness. It may also help explain fatigue or low energy that sometimes overlaps with cardiometabolic concerns.

Related Biomarker Patterns This Panel May Help Identify

This panel may help identify or rule out lab patterns related to:

  • High LDL cholesterol
  • High triglycerides
  • Low HDL cholesterol
  • Elevated ApoB particle burden
  • Elevated Lipoprotein(a)
  • Blood sugar imbalance
  • Prediabetes-related patterns
  • Low-grade inflammation
  • Thyroid-related cholesterol patterns
  • Liver or kidney marker changes
  • Electrolyte or calcium abnormalities
  • Magnesium status
  • Anemia or blood count changes
  • Platelet patterns
  • General cardiometabolic wellness

Professional Safety and Interpretation Notice

This panel is designed to support heart health, cholesterol, and cardiovascular risk review. It does not diagnose heart disease, heart attack, heart failure, coronary artery disease, stroke risk, plaque burden, or any cardiovascular condition by itself.

Results should be interpreted with a licensed healthcare provider and reviewed with symptoms, age, sex, blood pressure, diabetes status, smoking history, family history, medications, imaging results, and overall health history.

Seek urgent medical care for chest pain, shortness of breath, fainting, stroke symptoms, or symptoms of a possible heart attack.

How to Prepare for This Panel

Preparation may vary depending on the specific tests and instructions provided with your order. In general:

  • Fasting may be recommended because lipid and glucose markers are included.
  • Bring a list of medications and supplements, including statins, blood pressure medications, diabetes medications, aspirin, fish oil, CoQ10, and thyroid medication.
  • Note symptoms such as chest discomfort, shortness of breath, palpitations, leg swelling, muscle aches, fatigue, or exercise intolerance.
  • Drink water normally unless instructed otherwise.
  • Follow all lab collection instructions provided with your order.

What Happens After You Receive Your Results?

After your results are available, your biomarkers can help organize heart health findings into areas such as cholesterol, triglycerides, ApoB particle burden, inherited Lipoprotein(a) risk, blood sugar, inflammation, thyroid function, liver function, kidney function, magnesium status, and general blood health.

During the physician consultation, you can discuss whether your results suggest the need for follow-up testing, medication review, lifestyle changes, imaging discussions, blood pressure review, statin or lipid-lowering therapy discussion, or additional clinical care.

Additional Panels to Consider

Customers interested in the Heart Health & Cholesterol Essential Lab Panel may also consider:

  • Heart Health & Cholesterol Advanced Lab Panel
  • Heart Health & Cholesterol Comprehensive Lab Panel
  • Weight Loss Resistance & Metabolism Lab Panel
  • Prediabetes & Insulin Resistance Lab Panel
  • Kidney, Liver & Detox Support Lab Panel
  • Thyroid & Metabolism Lab Panel
  • Medication Safety Lab Panel
  • Medication & Supplement Safety Lab Panel
  • Longevity & Healthy Aging Lab Panel
  • Inflammation, Autoimmune & Chronic Pain Lab Panel

FAQ: Heart Health & Cholesterol Essential Lab Panel

What is the Heart Health & Cholesterol Essential Lab Panel?

The Heart Health & Cholesterol Essential Lab Panel is a focused blood test panel that evaluates cholesterol, lipid ratios, ApoB, Lipoprotein(a), blood sugar, inflammation, thyroid function, magnesium, liver function, kidney function, and blood health.

What blood tests are commonly used to evaluate heart health and cholesterol?

Common heart health and cholesterol tests include a Lipid Panel, ApoB, Lipoprotein(a), Hemoglobin A1c, hs-CRP, CMP, TSH, magnesium, and CBC. This Essential panel includes those foundational markers.

Why is ApoB included?

ApoB helps estimate the number of atherogenic cholesterol-carrying particles. It can provide important context when LDL cholesterol does not fully reflect particle burden.

Why is Lipoprotein(a) included?

Lipoprotein(a), or Lp(a), is largely inherited and may contribute to cardiovascular risk even when standard cholesterol results look acceptable. It is often useful as a baseline inherited risk marker.

Why is the Lipid Panel with Ratios included?

The Lipid Panel with Ratios provides standard cholesterol markers and additional cholesterol ratios that may support heart health and cardiometabolic risk discussions.

Why is A1c included in a heart health panel?

A1c provides a longer-term view of blood sugar patterns. Blood sugar imbalance, prediabetes, and diabetes are important cardiometabolic risk factors.

Why is hs-CRP included?

hs-CRP is a marker of low-grade inflammation. Inflammation may overlap with cardiometabolic risk, metabolic syndrome, vascular wellness, and heart health.

Why is TSH included?

Thyroid function can affect cholesterol, triglycerides, metabolism, energy, and weight. TSH helps evaluate whether thyroid function may be contributing to lipid patterns.

Can this panel diagnose heart disease?

No. This panel does not diagnose heart disease, heart attack, heart failure, plaque, or stroke risk by itself. It helps evaluate biomarkers that may support a provider-guided cardiovascular risk discussion.

Should I choose Essential, Advanced, or Comprehensive?

Choose Essential for a focused cholesterol and cardiometabolic baseline, Advanced for deeper insulin, kidney, thyroid, nutrient, and ApoB/Lp(a) review, and Comprehensive for the broadest advanced cardiovascular biomarker review.

Important Note

This panel is designed to help evaluate selected biomarkers related to heart health, cholesterol, ApoB, Lipoprotein(a), lipid ratios, blood sugar, inflammation, thyroid function, magnesium, liver function, kidney function, and general cardiometabolic wellness. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease by itself. Results should be reviewed with a licensed healthcare provider.

 

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