Apolipoprotein A1 (ApoA1)
Advanced wellnessalso apo a-i
What it isApoA1 is the principal structural protein of HDL particles. Counting ApoA1 effectively counts HDL particles and reflects the capacity of the reverse cholesterol transport system.
DoesForms HDL, accepts cholesterol efflux from cells, and triggers the enzyme that matures HDL particles.
GoodHigh ApoA1 indicates a robust reverse-transport system and tracks lower cardiovascular event rates. The ApoB/ApoA1 ratio is a stronger predictor than either alone.
BadLow ApoA1 signals impaired cholesterol clearance and metabolic syndrome.
- Standard
- Men >120 mg/dL; women >140 mg/dL.
- Optimal
- 150–180 mg/dL men, 170–200 mg/dL women (higher is good); ApoB/ApoA1 ratio 0.3–0.5
- Modifiers
- Women run higher; rises with estrogen and alcohol.
How to optimize
- Lifestyle
- Aerobic exercise, weight loss in those with excess fat, quit smoking.
- Diet
- Olive oil, fatty fish, nuts; cut refined carbs and trans fats.
- Supplements
- Omega-3 EPA+DHA (2–4g/day), niacin (under supervision).
- Peptides
- —
- Drugs
- Limited pharmacologic tools — niacin and fibrates modestly raise ApoA1.
Reference ranges are general adult lab norms; optimal ranges are editorial picks from the longevity literature — not medical advice. Always interpret results with your physician.
within Cholesterol & Lipids