Hyperlipidemia - Unspecified

What Does It Mean?

  • Hyperlipidemia, also referred to as high cholesterol, is a condition characterized by elevated levels of lipids (fats) in the blood, including cholesterol and triglycerides.
  • It is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases such as atherosclerosis, heart attack, and stroke.
  • Functional medicine approaches this dysfunction by identifying the root causes, which may include poor dietary habits, metabolic dysfunction, inflammation, and genetic predisposition.

How Did We Get Here?

Root Causes & Contributing Factors:

  • Dietary Factors: High intake of saturated fats, trans fats, and refined sugars.
  • Inflammation: Chronic systemic inflammation contributes to dyslipidemia.
  • Metabolic Dysfunction: Insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome often lead to lipid imbalances.
  • Liver Function Impairment: The liver plays a key role in lipid metabolism and cholesterol synthesis.
  • Genetic Predisposition: Familial hyperlipidemia or genetic polymorphisms affecting lipid metabolism.

Signs & Symptoms:

  • Often asymptomatic until complications arise.
  • Xanthomas (fatty deposits under the skin)
  • Xanthelasma (fatty deposits around the eyelids)
  • Corneal arcus (white or grayish ring around the cornea in younger patients)
  • Increased risk of cardiovascular events (chest pain, shortness of breath, high blood pressure)

Lab Test Findings

The following lab tests are typically ordered to confirm hyperlipidemia and assess cardiovascular risk:

Lab Test Name Expected Changes Optimal Range
Cholesterol, Serum Increased 180.00-220.00 mg/dL
Triglycerides Increased 70.00-80.00 mg/dL
LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein) Increased 80.00-99.99 mg/dL
HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein) Decreased 55.00-93.00 mg/dL
Arachidonic Acid: EPA Ratio Increased 3.7-40.7
Arachidonic Acid (AA) Increased 8.6-15.6 µg/mL
Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) Decreased 1.2-3.9 µg/mL
Docosapentaenoic Acid (DPA) Decreased 0.8-1.8 µg/mL
Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA) Decreased or Normal 0.2-2.3 µg/mL
Fat Increased None
Linoleic Acid Increased 18.6-29.5 µg/mL
Omega-6: Omega-3 Ratio Increased 3.7-14.4

How Do We Treat It?

Treatment is aimed at addressing the root causes and optimizing lipid metabolism through dietary, lifestyle, and targeted supplementation strategies.

Supplement Protocol

Supplement Function Dosage & Frequency
Novo Hepatic Supports liver detoxification and lipid metabolism 1 capsule without food, twice daily
CoQ-10 300 mg Enhances mitochondrial function and reduces oxidative stress 3 capsules with food, twice daily
V-Inflamma Anti-inflammatory, supports vascular health 1 capsule without food, daily
Levo Plasmin Supports normal blood flow, prevents plaque formation 1 capsule without food, twice daily
Vita Trim Help reduce appetite, manage weight, and support healthy blood sugar levels 2 capsules without food, daily

Additional Lifestyle Interventions::

  • Dietary Adjustments: Increase fiber intake, incorporate omega-3-rich foods, reduce trans fats and refined carbohydrates.
  • Exercise: Engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity weekly.
  • Liver Support: Promote liver detoxification pathways with phytonutrients and targeted supplements.
  • Inflammation Reduction: Avoid inflammatory foods, incorporate anti-inflammatory nutrients such as turmeric and omega-3 fatty acids.