High Cholesterol & Dyslipidemia
Dyslipidemia refers to abnormal levels of lipids (fats) in the blood, including elevated LDL cholesterol, low HDL cholesterol, or high triglycerides. High cholesterol affects approximately 93 million American adults and is a major risk factor for atherosclerosis, heart disease, and stroke. While genetics play a role, diet, lifestyle, and metabolic factors significantly influence cholesterol levels. Understanding the complexity beyond total cholesterol—including particle size, oxidation status, and inflammatory markers—is essential for cardiovascular risk assessment.
Symptoms
- •Typically no symptoms, making screening important for early detection
- •Severe cases may develop xanthomas (fatty deposits under the skin)
- •Corneal arcus (white or gray ring around the cornea) in familial hypercholesterolemia
- •Chest pain or symptoms of heart disease in advanced atherosclerosis
- •Complications like heart attack or stroke may be the first sign
Causes & Risk Factors
- •Diet high in saturated fats, trans fats, and refined carbohydrates
- •Insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome affecting lipid metabolism
- •Thyroid dysfunction, particularly hypothyroidism, raising cholesterol levels
- •Chronic inflammation and oxidative stress promoting lipid oxidation and atherosclerosis
Naturopathic Approach
Naturopathic treatment for dyslipidemia focuses on optimizing lipid profiles through comprehensive dietary, lifestyle, and targeted supplementation strategies while addressing underlying metabolic dysfunction. Dietary intervention emphasizes a Mediterranean-style eating pattern rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes, nuts, seeds, olive oil, and fatty fish while reducing saturated fats, trans fats, and refined carbohydrates. Soluble fiber from oats, legumes, flaxseed, and psyllium binds cholesterol in the digestive tract, promoting its excretion. Plant sterols and stanols competitively inhibit cholesterol absorption. Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA and DHA from fish oil, reduce triglycerides and inflammation. Red yeast rice contains naturally occurring statins and has demonstrated cholesterol-lowering effects comparable to low-dose statin medications. Bergamot extract, niacin, and berberine support healthy lipid metabolism through various mechanisms. Addressing insulin resistance is crucial as metabolic dysfunction significantly impacts lipid profiles—improving blood sugar control often improves cholesterol levels. Thyroid optimization is essential as hypothyroidism commonly causes elevated cholesterol. Regular physical activity increases HDL cholesterol, lowers triglycerides, and improves overall cardiovascular health. Weight loss when indicated significantly improves lipid profiles. Comprehensive lipid testing goes beyond basic cholesterol panels to assess particle size, oxidized LDL, apolipoprotein B, and inflammatory markers like high-sensitivity CRP to better assess cardiovascular risk. This integrative approach aims to optimize lipid profiles, reduce cardiovascular risk, and support long-term heart health.
Related Modalities
Frequently Asked Questions
Is all cholesterol bad for you?
No, cholesterol is essential for life—it's used to make cell membranes, hormones, vitamin D, and bile acids. HDL cholesterol is protective, carrying cholesterol away from arteries back to the liver. Even LDL cholesterol isn't inherently harmful—problems arise when LDL particles are small, dense, and oxidized, which promotes atherosclerosis. Context matters more than absolute numbers, including particle size, oxidation status, inflammation levels, and overall metabolic health.
Can I lower my cholesterol without medication?
Many people can significantly improve their lipid profiles through comprehensive diet and lifestyle changes. Studies show Mediterranean diet, increased fiber intake, regular exercise, and weight loss can lower LDL cholesterol by 10-30% or more. Natural supplements like plant sterols, red yeast rice, and omega-3s provide additional benefit. However, those with very high cholesterol, strong family history, or existing heart disease may benefit from medication combined with lifestyle interventions. The decision should be individualized based on overall cardiovascular risk.
Why is my cholesterol high if I eat a healthy diet?
Several factors influence cholesterol beyond diet alone. Genetics play a significant role—familial hypercholesterolemia causes very high cholesterol regardless of diet. Hypothyroidism, insulin resistance, chronic stress, and poor sleep all raise cholesterol. Additionally, the body produces most of its cholesterol (about 75%), with diet contributing about 25%. Advanced testing can identify whether high cholesterol is due to overproduction, poor clearance, or increased small dense particles requiring different treatment strategies.
Do I need to avoid eggs if I have high cholesterol?
For most people, dietary cholesterol from eggs has minimal impact on blood cholesterol levels, as the body regulates cholesterol production based on intake. Current research shows eggs can be part of a healthy diet even with high cholesterol, as they provide high-quality protein and nutrients. However, individual responses vary, and some people are 'hyper-responders' whose cholesterol is more sensitive to dietary cholesterol. Working with a practitioner to assess your individual response is helpful.
References
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Dr. Sanika Kshirsagar, ND
Doctorate of Naturopathic Medicine (ND)
Bastyr University, Kenmore, WA
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