RD - Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) Practice Test 2025 - Free Dietetics Practice Questions and Study Guide

Elevated LDL-dense particles are most indicative of a higher risk for heart disease due to their association with atherogenicity. LDL, or low-density lipoprotein, is often referred to as "bad cholesterol." The density of LDL particles plays a crucial role in cardiovascular health. Dense LDL particles are smaller and denser than their buoyant counterparts, and they have a greater capability to penetrate the arterial walls. This penetration facilitates plaque formation and contributes to the development of atherosclerosis, a condition characterized by the buildup of plaques in the arteries that can lead to heart disease and other cardiovascular events.

In contrast, elevated cholesterol levels might be a general indicator of risk, but it does not provide the same specific insight as the density of the LDL particles. Similarly, low triglycerides are generally considered a positive marker for heart health rather than a risk factor. While elevated LDL-buoyant particles have also been studied, they are typically less harmful than dense LDL particles regarding their role in cardiovascular disease. Therefore, the presence of elevated LDL-dense particles is a more precise marker indicating an increased risk for heart disease, making it a vital focus in assessing cardiovascular health.