Final answer:
Lipid profiling evaluates the risk of heart disease by measuring the levels of HDL, LDL, and triglycerides in the blood. High levels of LDL increase heart disease risk, while high levels of HDL decrease it. The consumption of trans fats also contributes to an increased risk of heart disease.
Step-by-step explanation:
Lipid profiling evaluates the risk of heart disease; it specifically looks at HDL (high-density lipoproteins), LDL (low-density lipoproteins), and triglycerides. Studies have shown that high levels of HDL reduce a person's risk of developing heart disease, while high levels of LDL increase that risk. Therefore, the serum LDL:HDL ratio is a better predictor of heart disease risk than the overall level of serum cholesterol. Persons who have high LDL:HDL ratios due to hereditary or dietary factors are at a higher risk of heart disease. Additionally, a lipid panel test measures the levels of total cholesterol, LDLs, HDLs, and triglycerides in the blood, providing valuable information for assessing cardiovascular health.
Trans fats are another type of lipid that increase the risk for heart disease by raising LDL levels and lowering HDL levels. The consumption of trans fatty acids has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease, leading to regulations requiring food manufacturers to list trans fat content on nutrition labels. Therefore, correct answer to the student's question is B) Risk of heart disease; looks at HDL, LDL, and triglycerides.