Causal association between lipoproteins and risk of coronary artery disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis of Mendelian randomization studies

Researchers combined earlier Mendelian randomization studies, a method that uses small inherited DNA differences to test whether something may cause disease rather than merely occur alongside it. These studies used DNA and health data from people in large research groups, not a new treatment trial. They examined lipoproteins, particles that carry fats through the blood, including LDL cholesterol, often called bad cholesterol; HDL cholesterol, often called good cholesterol; triglycerides, another type of blood fat; and other particles. Higher LDL, triglycerides, apolipoprotein B, a marker of the number of harmful cholesterol-carrying particles, and lipoprotein(a), an inherited cholesterol-carrying particle, were generally linked to higher coronary artery disease risk. Higher HDL was not clearly protective.

What this means for you: This supports focusing on proven ways to lower LDL and other harmful blood fats, rather than buying supplements marketed to raise HDL. The study does not prove that any particular food or product prevents heart disease, and genetic evidence cannot replace treatment trials.