Lipid Panel Transformation

In 2017, I went to the doctor's for my first physical exam in several years. Most everything came back healthy-ish, and normal-ish except my lipid panel being a little high but not quite a concern yet. I told myself I would make some changes to my eating habits and maybe exercise more (read: exercise any at all) and the problem would go away. I never actually did either of those things, although I did stop eating double cheeseburgers with bacon and fried eggs, so I felt like that was something, right??

In March of 2018 I went back to the Dr for my annual exam, and was disappointed to see that I had gained another 10 pounds over the year, but even worse my cholesterol numbers went up further, and now my blood pressure was in the realm of hypertension. I was faced with the decision of going on cholesterol/BP medicine, and based on my research I realized that coming off of these medications is not easy and sometimes impossible. I felt that I was way too young at 31 to go on medication for potentially the rest of my life, but I also knew that something had to change. Heart disease has plagued half of my family tree, so I couldn't ignore it any longer, and I definitely couldn't pretend to do something about it like last time.

I chose not to go on medicine, and instead immediately started eating a more balanced diet. In August, I joined a gym and started an exercising regimen consisting of both cardio and strength training. Medicine should be a last resort in my opinion, and should only be used in emergencies or when diet and exercise either don't work or aren't as realistic/feasible. Last month (September) my wife and I decided to participate in the Whole 30 program (No booze, grains, soy, dairy, legumes, or added sugars). I just went in for a 6-month follow up with my doctor, and the results are amazing. Aside from the numbers, I feel infinitely better about myself. I have lost a significant amount of weight, but beyond that I have noticed there is way less inflammation throughout my body likely a result of going through Whole30 and one of those food groups reacting poorly with my body in excess (still trying to identify which one so I can get back to a more balanced and sustainable diet). Most importantly, I am more determined than ever to celebrate this victory but also to keep this momentum going.

I wanted to share my numbers, as I am sure others are in a similar situation. I still have some work to do, and even then it will be a continuous effort to maintain because I know if I slack off then I'll be right back where I was. But I am ecstatic at the progress I've made in a short period of time, and even more thrilled knowing that at least for now the only medicine I need is a healthy lifestyle.


March 2018

Weight: 261
Cholesterol, Total: 246
Triglycerides: 214
HDL Cholesterol: 42
VLDL Cholesterol Cal: 43
LDL Cholesterol Calc: 161

LDL/HDL Ratio: 3.8

September 2018 (6 months later)

Weight: 230
Cholesterol, Total: 170
Triglycerides: 64
HDL Cholesterol: 44
VLDL Cholesterol Cal: 13
LDL Cholesterol Calc: 113

LDL/HDL Ratio: 2.6