Cardiologist says these blood tests that can predict heart disease risks even before symptoms appear

Cardiologist Dmitry Yaranov has recently shared the 5 blood tests that can predict heart disease risk. "These blood tests can catch heart problems early — long before you feel symptoms," he has captioned a video. He says these blood tests can catch problems before you waste 5 years Googling your symptoms.

The cardiologist recommends the following tests:

Lipid panel – LDL, HDL, triglycerides

Lipoprotein(a) – one-time genetic check
ApoB – counts all harmful cholesterol particles

Your cholesterol story is more than just “good” and “bad” numbers. A lipid panel measures LDL (the bad stuff), HDL (the good guy), and triglycerides (extra fat in the blood) to show your heart’s risk profile. Lipoprotein(a) is a one-time genetic check—if it’s high, you’re naturally at greater risk, no matter how clean you eat. ApoB goes deeper, counting all the harmful cholesterol particles cruising through your arteries. Think of these tests as a heart health snapshot and DNA sneak peek, helping you spot trouble early and take action before cholesterol clogs up your life.

He recommends the following tests:

A1C – 3-month average
Fasting glucose – diabetes screen

Blood sugar isn’t just about diabetes—it’s a big deal for your heart too. A1C gives you the 3-month average of your blood sugar, showing whether things have been smooth or on a roller coaster. Fasting glucose checks your sugar levels after not eating, catching early signs of prediabetes or diabetes. Why it matters? High blood sugar can damage blood vessels, fuel inflammation, and make your heart work overtime. Keeping these numbers in check isn’t just about avoiding diabetes—it’s a solid way to protect your ticker for the long run.

The expert recommends the following tests:

Creatinine & eGFR – kidney function
Electrolytes – sodium, potassium, calcium

Your kidneys and metabolism are secretly tied to your heart’s well-being. Creatinine and eGFR tests check how well your kidneys are filtering waste—because when kidneys struggle, your heart often feels the pressure too. Then there are electrolytes like sodium, potassium, and calcium. These tiny minerals keep your heart’s electrical signals firing smoothly, helping it beat in a steady rhythm. If they’re out of balance, you could end up with dangerous heart flutters or blood pressure spikes. Bottom line: keeping these numbers in check isn’t just about kidney health—it’s a major win for your heart too.

Here he recommends the following tests:

Thyroid (TSH, T4) – rhythm & metabolismCRP – inflammation markerVitamin D – linked to heart health

Your hormones and inflammation levels can tell a lot about your heart’s future. Thyroid tests (TSH, T4) check if your metabolism and body rhythm are in sync, because a sluggish or overactive thyroid can mess with heart rate and cholesterol. CRP (C-reactive protein) is like a smoke alarm for inflammation, which plays a big role in heart disease. And vitamin D? It’s not just for bones, low levels are linked to higher heart risks. Think of these as behind-the-scenes heart health checks.

Lastly, he recommends the following tests:

CBC – anemia & infection clues

Iron & ferritin – oxygen delivery

When it comes to blood health, a CBC (Complete Blood Count) is like your body’s status report, it can flag anemia, infections, and even hint at immune issues before you feel off. Then there’s iron and ferritin tests, which check how well your blood can carry oxygen. Low levels? You might feel tired, foggy, or weak. High levels? That’s a different red flag. Think of these tests as quick detective work for your health, spotting problems early so you can fix them fast.

Keeping your heart healthy isn’t rocket science, it’s about daily choices that add up. Load your plate with colorful veggies, fruits, whole grains, lean proteins, and heart-friendly fats like olive oil or nuts. Move your body, walk, swim, dance, anything that gets your blood pumping.

Ditch the smoking, go easy on alcohol, and watch the salt and sugar. Sleep well and find ways to manage stress, whether it’s yoga, laughing with friends, or just some quiet time. Your heart’s a hard-working muscle, so treat it with care now and it’ll keep beating strong for years to come.

Foods like fatty fish, nuts, seeds, whole grains, leafy greens, berries, and legumes support a healthy heart. They provide omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, antioxidants, and essential nutrients that help lower bad cholesterol, reduce inflammation, regulate blood pressure, and improve overall cardiovascular function, promoting long-term heart health and well-being.

For better heart health, avoid smoking, excessive alcohol, processed meats, trans fats, and sugary drinks. Limit salt, refined carbs, and highly processed snacks. Manage stress, avoid prolonged sitting, and don’t skip regular exercise. Stay away from crash diets and unchecked supplements that may raise blood pressure or cholesterol.

If you notice any signs of heart disease, it is important to consult a doctor.

Heart disease isn’t just some rare thing your uncle’s friend has, it’s the number one killer in the United States. According to the CDC, about 1 in 5 deaths every year is due to heart disease, and millions more are living with it right now. The scary part? Many people don’t even know they’re at risk until something serious happens. Sedentary lifestyles, fast food overload, stress, and smoking all add fuel to the fire. The good news? Catching risks early, through lifestyle changes and simple tests, can help you dodge the big problems before they hit.

Seek professional medical help.