Jan - thank you, and ty for the posting of the article by the lowcarb nutritionist..that was exactly what I needed to see.

I've already been taking an honest look at where the issue might be (I don't cook with much fat, eat skinless chicken etc.) and see some things I can easily change. Now I have a direction to go in that I know I can do.
Heartfelt thanks to all who responded.

That just makes me sad.

Me too but I really do love skinless chicken so its not too bad I eat deliciously, trust me.

FYI for everyone, a coronary calcium scan means some radiation to your chest, if that is important for you. I have had more than my fair share and my doctor recommending skipping that test. The carotid artery ultrasound is not as good but possibly useful.

This is not an ad, but just wanted to mention here that Feb is Heart Month, so DirectLabs has four Cardio packages on sale.
If you have been wanting an NMR, it is only $89 in Feb.

DirectLabs is the direct to consumer lab I use (there are many others...this market is rapidly expanding, but DL has excellent service, lab is nearby so I haven't explored the others much, but know prices vary, esp. With packages and monthly specials offered). Direct to Consumer services are legal in all but four states, if interested, go to DirectLabs.com to see how they work.