What Does It Mean to Be Diagnosed With Prediabetes?

Medically Reviewed and Written By: Kathleen O’Shea Northrup, MD Most of us have some understanding of what it means to have diabetes- medication, blood sugar monitoring, careful food intake- but what about prediabetes? And what do I do if my doctor tells me I have it? What Does “prediabetic” Mean? If you have been told that… Continue reading What Does It Mean to Be Diagnosed With Prediabetes?

Lp(a): Who Should Be Tested?

Medically Reviewed and Written By: Kathleen O’Shea Northrup, MD  Lp(a) – pronounced L-p-little-a- is a type of lipoprotein that is associated with much higher risks of acute coronary and vascular disease. It is estimated that 20-30% of the population has an elevated level. Lp(a) can not only cause narrowing of the arteries but can also increase… Continue reading Lp(a): Who Should Be Tested?

Cholesterol 101: What is LP(a)?

Medically Reviewed and Written By: Kathleen O’Shea Northrup, MD Lowering your cholesterol is a well-known way to decrease your risk of heart attack or stroke. You’ve likely heard of “good” cholesterol (HDL) and “bad” cholesterol (LDL), but what about Lipoprotein(a)? Lp(a), as it is more commonly known, has been the subject of increasing research in recent… Continue reading Cholesterol 101: What is LP(a)?

What is the Impact of Obesity on Autoimmune Conditions?

There are over 100 autoimmune conditions, like rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis, but experts still aren’t sure what causes them. Autoimmune conditions occur when your immune system mistakenly attacks the body instead of protecting it. Certain factors increase your risk of getting an autoimmune condition, such as smoking or having a family member with an… Continue reading What is the Impact of Obesity on Autoimmune Conditions?