Women's Health Profile

25-OH vitamin D is the storage form of vitamin D that the body produces in the liver from vitamin D formed by sunlight or food. Vitamin D supports calcium absorption, ensures healthy bones and teeth, and plays an important role for muscles, nerves, and the immune system.

The 25-OH vitamin D test is the best method to check vitamin D status. Low levels can indicate too little sunlight, an unbalanced diet, or diseases and are associated with bone diseases such as osteoporosis or rickets. Excessive levels usually result from too high supplement doses and can strain the kidneys and liver.

Cholesterol is a fat-like substance that the body needs for many important functions. It is a building block of cell membranes, a precursor for hormones such as estrogen and testosterone, and for the production of bile acids. Some is absorbed through food, but the majority is produced in the liver.

Too high cholesterol levels can lead to deposits in the vessel walls and increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases. However, a balanced level is important, as cholesterol is also indispensable for health.

LDL cholesterol is referred to as "bad cholesterol" because it transports cholesterol from the liver to the body's cells. Excess LDL can deposit in the vessel walls and form so-called plaques. These deposits narrow the vessels and increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

High LDL levels are an important risk factor for arteriosclerosis, heart attack, and stroke. Low levels, on the other hand, are considered beneficial for vascular health.

HDL cholesterol is often referred to as "good cholesterol" because it transports excess cholesterol from the vessels to the liver. There, it is broken down or recycled, reducing deposits in the arteries. Thus, HDL helps to keep the vessels healthy and free from calcifications.

High HDL levels are considered beneficial as they are associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular diseases. Low levels, on the other hand, increase the risk of arteriosclerosis and heart attack.

Triglycerides are the main form of fats in the body and are primarily stored in fat cells. They are formed when excess energy from food is converted into fat. Some triglycerides circulate in the blood and serve as an energy source.

Elevated triglyceride levels can increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases, especially when LDL is high and HDL is low at the same time. Very high levels can also trigger inflammation of the pancreas.