HSOS #35: Cholesterol Testing Beyond LDL: What Women Need to Know

Cholesterol numbers start acting suspicious, curiosity kicks in, and the investigation begins. This episode pulls back the curtain on the labs that reveal what standard cholesterol panels miss, including particle counts, inflammation markers, insulin levels, and genetic risk factors. Along the way, a zero calcium score, some surprising lab insights, and a few lifestyle truths show how much more there is to the heart health story for women over 40.Let’s talk.Welcome to Her Season of Strength—where women over 40 reclaim their bodies, their energy, and their voices, without apologies. I'm Kim Duffy—registered dietitian, personal trainer, mom, and your biggest hype woman when it comes to aging like you mean it.This show isn’t about chasing skinny or counting wrinkles. It’s about building real strength—physical, emotional, and hormonal. Each week, I’ll share straight-talking nutrition tips, sustainable fitness strategies, and conversations that help you feel powerful in your skin once again.Menopause is not an ending, it is only the beginning. This is your season of strength.What I Cover in This Episode:The moment my “healthy lifestyle” numbers didn’t add upThe test result that changed the whole conversationWhy the usual cholesterol panel might be missing somethingThe hidden clues inside your cholesterol particlesThe surprising role inflammation plays in heart healthA metabolic number that quietly predicts riskWhat your body might be saying about insulinThe difference between “fluffy” and “troublemaker” cholesterolWhy some risks are written in our genesGrab the the simple guide that helps you ask better questions at your next doctor visitSend me a textLinks & resources for this episode:Fit After 50+ Program: 8-Week Nutrition Coaching & Strength Program for menopausal women.  Join the interest list today for the best discounts, bonuses and updates about the next program coming Fall of 2026!Free cheat sheet: "20 Tips to Crushing Menopause"Join my free weekly newsletter list and get a new high protein recipe sent to your inbox every Thursday. Find me on social media: Instagram I Facebook I Tiktok