What Does It Mean?
Atherosclerosis is the build-up of fats, cholesterol, and other substances in the artery walls, leading to plaque formation that can restrict blood flow. This dysfunction can result in cardiovascular disease, stroke, and other circulatory disorders. Atherosclerosis is driven by chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, metabolic imbalances, and poor lipid metabolism.
How Did We Get There?
Root Causes:
- Chronic Inflammation & Oxidative Stress – Persistent inflammation damages the endothelium, leading to plaque accumulation.
- Dyslipidemia & Poor Lipid Metabolism – Imbalanced cholesterol levels (low HDL, high LDL) contribute to plaque formation.
- Elevated Uric Acid & Fibrinogen – Increased blood viscosity and clotting risk.
- Nutrient Deficiencies – Lack of essential fatty acids, CoQ10, and B vitamins impairs vascular function.
- Hypertension & Insulin Resistance – High blood pressure and poor glucose regulation accelerate arterial damage.
Signs & Symptoms:
- Often asymptomatic until advanced stages
- Chest pain or discomfort (angina)
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue, weakness, or dizziness
- Cold extremities due to poor circulation
- High blood pressure
- Increased risk of stroke, heart attack, or blood clots
Lab Test Findings
| Lab Test Name | Expected Changes | Optimal Range |
| Apolipoprotein A-1 | Decreased | 150.00-210.00 mg/dL |
| C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP) | Increased | 0.00-0.55 mg/L |
| Cholesterol, Serum | Increased | 180.00-220.00 mg/dL |
| Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) | Decreased | 1.2-3.9 µg/mL |
| Fibrinogen Activity | Increased | 175.00-300.00 mg/dL |
| HDL Cholesterol | Decreased | 55.00-93.00 mg/dL |
| Homocysteine | Increased | 5.00-7.20 µmol/L |
| LDL Cholesterol Direct | Increased | 80.00-99.99 mg/dL |
| Lipoprotein A, Lp (A) | Increased | 0.00-30.00 mg/dL |
| Neutrophil: Lymphocyte Ratio | Increased | 1.00-1.70 |
| Platelet Count | Increased | 190.00-300.00 Cells/µL |
| Selenium, Serum | Decreased | 70.00-121.00 µg/dL |
| Triglycerides, Serum | Increased | 70.00-80.00 mg/dL |
| Uric Acid | Increased | 3.50-5.40 mg/dL |
| VLDL Calculation | Increased | 0.00-15.00 mg/dL |
How Do We Treat It?
Functional Medicine Approach:
Management of atherosclerosis focuses on reducing inflammation, improving lipid metabolism, and enhancing vascular function through targeted supplementation and lifestyle interventions.
Supplement Protocol
| Supplement | Function | Dosage & Frequency |
| Novo Hepatic | Supports liver function and lipid metabolism, reducing arterial plaque | 1 capsule 20-30 minutes prior to food, twice daily |
| Vita B Methyl | Enhances methylation pathways for cardiovascular protection and homocysteine balance | 1 capsule without food, daily |
| CoQ-10 300 mg | Supports mitochondrial energy production and vascular health | 1 capsule with food, daily |
| Vita-Uric Pro | Helps lower uric acid levels to reduce oxidative stress and endothelial damage | 3 capsules without food, daily |
| V-Inflamma | Broad-spectrum anti-inflammatory with turmeric phytosomes to support vascular function | 2 capsules with food, daily |
| LevoPlasmin | Support healthy circulation, fibrin breakdown, and balanced inflammatory response | 1 capsule without food, twice daily |
| Vita-Glutathione | Antioxidant & cellular detoxification | 3 capsules without food, daily |
Additional Lifestyle Interventions:
- Anti-Inflammatory & Heart-Healthy Diet – Focus on omega-3-rich foods, fiber, and polyphenols.
- Optimize Lipid Metabolism – Support liver detox pathways and healthy cholesterol balance.
- Exercise & Circulation Support – Regular movement to promote cardiovascular health and reduce plaque burden.
- Manage Stress & Blood Pressure – Reduce cortisol and systemic inflammation.