What Does It Mean?
Poor metabolism of fats refers to the body's inability to efficiently break down and utilize dietary fats for energy and cellular function. This dysfunction can lead to fat accumulation, increased oxidative stress, and deficiencies in fat-soluble vitamins, impacting liver function, cardiovascular health, and overall metabolic balance.
How Did We Get There?
Root Causes:
- Liver Dysfunction – Impaired bile production reduces fat digestion.
- Gallbladder Insufficiency – Poor bile flow hinders fat emulsification.
- Mitochondrial Dysfunction – Inadequate CoQ10 levels impair fat oxidation.
- Inflammation & Oxidative Stress – Leads to impaired lipid metabolism.
- Nutrient Deficiencies – Lack of essential cofactors such as B vitamins, choline, and carnitine affects fat breakdown.
Signs & Symptoms:
- Fatigue and low energy due to poor fat utilization
- Digestive discomfort, bloating, and greasy stools
- Increased LDL and triglycerides
- Brain fog and difficulty concentrating
- Dry skin and brittle nails due to poor fat absorption
- Difficulty losing weight or unexplained weight gain
Lab Test Findings
| Lab Test Name | Expected Change | Optimal Range |
| Cholesterol, Serum | Decreased | 180.00-220.00 mg/dL |
| Triglycerides, Serum | Decreased | 70.00-80.00 mg/dL |
| Vitamin A (Retinol) | Decreased | 57.00-66.00 ug/dL |
| Vitamin E (Tocopherol) | Decreased | 10.0-15.0 mg/dL |
| Vitamin K1 | Decreased | 500-1300 pg/mL |
How Do We Treat It?
Functional Medicine Approach:
Enhancing fat metabolism involves supporting liver function, improving bile flow, and optimizing mitochondrial energy production.
Supplement Protocol:
| Supplement | Function | Dosage & Frequency |
| CoQ-10 300 mg | Supports mitochondrial energy production and fat oxidation | 1 capsule 20-30 minutes prior to food, daily |
| Levo Plasmin | Enhances blood flow and cellular oxygenation | 1 capsule 20-30 minutes prior to food, twice daily |
| Novo Hepatic | Supports liver function and bile production | 1 capsule 20-30 minutes prior to food, twice daily |
| Vita-Digestyzyme | Supports healthy digestion and maintains enzyme balance | 2 capsules 20-30 minutes prior to food, twice daily |
| Vita-Flux | Provides hydrochloric acid to support stomach digestion | 2 capsules 20-30 minutes prior to food, twice daily |
| Vita-Biotic | Delivers active probiotics to support gut microbiome | 1 capsule 20-30 minutes prior to food, daily |
Additional Lifestyle Interventions:
- Support Liver & Gallbladder Function: Increase intake of bitter greens, beets, and dandelion root to stimulate bile flow.
- Improve Fat Digestion: Include digestive enzymes and bile salts in the diet.
- Enhance Mitochondrial Function: Consume omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants to reduce oxidative stress.
- Reduce Processed Fats & Inflammatory Foods: Eliminate trans fats and excessive refined oils.
- Optimize Macronutrient Balance: Ensure adequate protein and fiber intake to support fat metabolism.