Episode #320. Are you part of the 20% of people with this dangerous gene? There’s a cheap, simple test you can do just once in your life to find out. Join me as I sit down with renowned lipidologist Dr Thomas Dayspring to help you understand Lipoprotein(a) and the test that might change your life.

In this episode, you’ll learn what Lp(a) is and how it can affect your cardiovascular disease risk through two key pathways. Dr Dayspring unpacks why it’s so important to test, how to ask for this test, and what to do with your results.

Specifically, we discuss:

• Introduction (00:00)
• Demystifying Lipoprotein(a): An Overview of its Role in Cardiovascular Health (02:54)
• Genetic Inheritance Patterns and Variability of Lipoprotein(a) (10:11)
• Drug Development Strategies for Reducing Lipoprotein(a) Levels (14:50)
• Exploring the Functional Role and Genetic Variations of Lipoprotein(a) (20:27)
• Inside the Artery Walls: Mechanisms and Structure of Lipoprotein(a) (32:34)
• A Deep Dive in Production to Measurement of Lipoprotein(a) (42:32)
• Identifying High-Risk Indicators for Lipoprotein(a) (58:54)
• Statins and Elevated Lipoprotein(a): Understanding the Relationship (01:11:42)
• Exploring PCSK9 Inhibitors in Lipoprotein(a) Management (01:20:30)
• Emerging Treatments and Future Therapies for Lowering Lipoprotein(a) (01:31:22)
• Exploring Lifestyle Considerations and Alternative Therapies (01:34:42)
• Oxidized Phospholipids and Their Role in Cardiovascular Health (01:43:15)
• Relationship Between Oxidized Phospholipids and Lipoprotein(a) (01:52:00)
• Understanding Aortic Valve Calcification and Its Link to Lipoprotein(a) (01:59:40)
• Key Takeaways and Future Landscape of Lipoprotein(a) Treatments (02:06:52)
• Conclusion and Final Remarks (02:13:30)

Connect with Dr Thomas Dayspring on Twitter/X. Listen to our previous lipid series and download the cheat sheet here.

This episode is brought to you by:

38TERA

Consider 38TERA's DMN-01 prebiotic supplement a daily multivitamin for your gut. Formulated by yours truly and gastroenterologist Dr Will Bulsiewicz. Use code THEPROOF for a discount at checkout.

Eimele

Eimele Essential 8 is a comprehensive multivitamin that is scientifically formulated to complement your plant-rich diet, increase and sustain your energy, and support the immune system, as well as heart and brain health. Head to Eimele.com and use code SIMON at checkout for 10% off your first order.

WHOOP

Whoop, the most advanced fitness and health wearable available. Your personalised fitness and health coach to recover faster, sleep better, and train smarter. Claim your first month free on join.whoop.com/simon.

Cozy Earth

Sleep better and cooler with Cozy Earth, the softest science-backed sheets on the market. With a 10-year warranty, 100-day trial period, and ethical production, Cozy Earth is my favourite easy way to improve my rest and recovery. Use code SIMON at cozyearth.com for up to 35% off.

BON CHARGE

Enhance skin health, increase collagen production, and reverse sun damage with BON CHARGE, my choice of low-level light therapy. Holistic, evidence-based, premium products for healthier skin. Get started at boncharge.com and use code THEPROOF for a 15% discount.

Want to support the show?

The best way to support the show is to use the products and services offered by our sponsors. To check them out, and enjoy great savings, visit theproof.com/friends. You can also show your support by leaving a review on the Apple Podcast app and/or sharing your favourite episodes with your friends and family.

Simon Hill, MSc, BSc (Hons)

Creator of theproof.com and host of The Proof with Simon Hill

Author of The Proof is in the Plants

Watch the episodes on YouTube or listen on Apple/Spotify

Connect with me on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook

Nourish your gut with my Plant-Based Ferments Guide

Download my complimentary Two-Week Meal Plan and high protein Plant Performance recipe book