There’s more to your cholesterol than you realize
There’s more to your cholesterol than you realize
The truth behind “normal” cholesterol
The truth behind “normal” cholesterol
Routine cholesterol tests haven’t changed since the 1950s—but the science has. The basic panel (LDL, HDL, triglycerides) only measures cholesterol by weight, but we now know that particle quality and number are more telling indicators of health. Function tests a range of biomarkers that measure cholesterol and overall heart health, to help you better understand your risk for cardiovascular disease.
The ratio of Apolipoprotein B (found in "bad" cholesterol particles like LDL) to Apolipoprotein A1 (found in "good" cholesterol particles like HDL) evaluates the balance between harmful and protective cholesterol particles providing a risk assessment for conditions like atherosclerosis heart attack and stroke. A higher ratio typically indicates a greater risk of cardiovascular disease. *This add-on test is available for an additional cost and is not included in the $499 membership.
Measures the ratio of total cholesterol levels to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL).
Total cholesterol numbers are part of a risk assessment for heart disease. Too much cholesterol in the blood can damage arteries and blood vessels and elevate the risk for stroke, heart attack, and heart disease. Cholesterol is a fatty substance produced by the liver to help with thousands of bodily functions, such as building cells, promoting hormone and brain function, and synthesizing vitamin D.
HDL is part of a comprehensive lipid panel, an essential risk assessment for heart disease. There are two types of cholesterol: high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL). Think of the H as healthy, helpful, heart-supporting cholesterol that helps reduce plaque buildup.
Large HDL particles in the blood are protective; having a higher amount is beneficial because they help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
This test is a risk marker for cardiovascular diseases. LDL is responsible for carrying cholesterol to cells. However, despite its good intentions, LDL is known as the “bad” cholesterol because, when levels are too high, it can cause the formation of plaque buildup in the arteries.
Measures the amount of medium LDL particles in the blood. Elevated medium LDL levels are associated with an increased risk of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease.
Measures the number of LDL particles, which are the carriers of cholesterol. Too many LDL particles can lead to plaque buildup in arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Assesses the risk of cardiovascular disease based on cholesterol health, either Pattern A or Pattern B.
Refers to the most common or average size of LDL particles in your blood. This is important because smaller LDL particles are more likely to contribute to plaque buildup in arteries, increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Small LDL particles in the blood are harmful, as elevated levels are linked to a higher risk of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease.
About 50% of people who suffer heart attacks have a normal cholesterol level. Considering this, many cardiologists believe Lp(a) to be a major driver of cardiac events. This invaluable test is used by specialists but is not yet widely adopted in primary care. Lp(a) is a genetic marker that determines risk, particularly for those with symptoms or a family history of cardiovascular disease. Lipoproteins are made of lipids (fats) and proteins (energy) and are referred to as "sticky proteins."
Measures cholesterol that is not HDL. This is a risk marker for dyslipidemia, cardiovascular disease, and metabolic syndrome.
The ratio of triglycerides to HDL measures risk for heart disease. Triglycerides are the most common type of fat in the body that stores excess energy from one's diet. An accumulation of triglycerides means there is too much fat in the blood and may indicate higher risk of a cardiac event.
Your membership
Your membership
What could cost you $15,000 is $499
What could cost you $15,000 is $499
Testing is easy
Testing is easy
Take charge of your health starting with knowledge
Take charge of your health starting with knowledge
What does a Function membership include?
For $499 per year, a Function membership gives you:
- 100+ lab tests at the start of each year—no hidden costs, no insurance required.
- 60+ follow-up tests at 3–6 months to track changes.
- Insights from top doctors based on your results.
- A written clinician summary to help you understand your data.
- Access to re-test at transparent prices when needed.
- Option to purchase additional tests, including Lyme, STDs, and allergies.
- Access to groundbreaking tests, like the Galleri Multi-Cancer Early Detection test.
Function is for anyone 18 and older. The sooner you establish a baseline, the better—you’ll see where you stand today and track changes over time. Understanding your body’s trends gives you the power to make informed decisions about your future.
Function takes privacy extremely seriously. We use a range of the latest technical security tools and administrative measures to safeguard your data against unauthorized access or disclosure. Note that Function cannot secure personal data that you release on your own or that you request us to release, so we recommend carefully considering with whom you choose to share this data. Read our Privacy Statement.
Function is 100% insurance-free. No deductibles. No co-pays. No surprise bills. We are committed to transparent prices and you knowing exactly what you pay for. Function does not accept insurance; however, it may be FSA/HSA eligible. You should check with your plan administrator to confirm eligibility. Function provides you with a receipt to assist you with submitting to an FSA/HSA plan.