What Does It Mean?
Cardiovascular (CV) Disease Risk refers to the probability of developing cardiovascular conditions due to metabolic imbalances, inflammation, and lifestyle factors. Functional Medicine evaluates the root causes, including endothelial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and lipid imbalances, to reduce long-term risk.
How Did We Get There?
Root Causes of CV Disease Risk
- Chronic Inflammation – Elevated inflammatory markers contribute to arterial damage and plaque formation.
- Oxidative Stress – Free radical damage affects vascular health and increases atherosclerosis risk.
- Lipid Imbalances – Elevated LDL, low HDL, and high triglycerides contribute to poor cardiovascular function.
- Insulin Resistance & Metabolic Syndrome – Poor glucose control promotes vascular inflammation and hypertension.
- Hypertension & Endothelial Dysfunction – Damage to blood vessels reduces circulation and oxygen delivery.
- Nutritional Deficiencies – Lack of essential vitamins and minerals (CoQ10, magnesium, omega-3s) impairs cardiovascular function.
Signs & Symptoms
Patients at risk for CV disease often present with:
- High blood pressure or hypertension
- Elevated cholesterol levels (high LDL, low HDL, high triglycerides)
- Fatigue and reduced exercise tolerance
- Poor circulation (cold extremities, slow wound healing)
- Chronic inflammation and joint pain
- Cognitive impairment or brain fog
Lab Test Findings
(Note: Additional lab tests may be referenced for a comprehensive evaluation.)
| Lab Test Name | Expected Changes | Optimal Range |
| Antistreptolysin O (ASO) Antibody | Increased | 0.00-200.00 IU/mL |
| Apolipoprotein A-1 | Decreased | 150.00-210.00mg/dL |
| Apolipoprotein B | Increased | 52.00-117.00 mg/dL |
| Arachidonic Acid : EPA Ratio | Increased | 3.7-40.7 % |
| Arachidonic Acid (AA) | Increased | 8.6-15.6 µg/mL |
| Homocysteine | Increased | 5.0-7.20 µmol/L |
| Lipoprotein (a) | Increased | 0.00-30.00 mg/dL |
| High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP) | Increased | 0.00-0.55 mg/L |
| Fibrinogen Activity | Increased | 175.00-300.00 mg/dL |
| Omegacheck (EPA+DPA+DHA) | Decreased | 5.40-50 µg/mL |
How Do We Treat It?
Functional Medicine focuses on reducing inflammation, optimizing lipid balance, and supporting vascular health.
Supplement Protocol
| Supplement | Function | Dosage & Frequency |
| CoQ-10 300 mg | Supports mitochondrial function and cardiovascular energy production. | 2 capsules with food, twice daily |
| Levo Plasmin | A powerful enzyme that helps support normal blood flow and fibrinolysis. | 1 capsule without food, twice daily |
| Novo Hepatic | Supports liver function and detoxification, reducing lipid imbalances. | 1 capsule without food, daily |
| Vita B Methyl | Supports methylation processes essential for cardiovascular health. | 1 capsule without food, daily |
| Vita-Glutathione | Provides antioxidant protection against oxidative stress and inflammation. | 1 capsule with or without food, daily |
| Vita-Omega | Supports heart health by providing essential omega-3 fatty acids. | 2 capsules with or without food, daily |
| Vita-Trim | Aids in maintaining a healthy weight and metabolic balance for heart health. | 2 capsules without food, daily |
Additional Lifestyle Interventions:
- Anti-Inflammatory Diet: Emphasize whole foods, fiber, and healthy fats while eliminating processed foods and sugar.
- Exercise & Cardiovascular Health: Encourage regular physical activity to improve circulation and lipid metabolism.
- Stress Reduction: Implement mindfulness, meditation, and breathing exercises to lower cortisol and inflammation.
- Glucose Control & Insulin Sensitivity: Adopt a balanced diet to regulate blood sugar levels and prevent metabolic syndrome.
- Optimize Sleep: Prioritize restorative sleep to reduce stress and improve cardiovascular function.