High cholesterol treatment
Prevent, alleviate, or heal disease—naturally.
Meet our practitioners who specialize in natural High cholesterol treatment
Recommended health tests for High cholesterol
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
How it works
Consult with our health coaches who will learn about your symptoms, habits, and goals.
Take personalized home health tests to discover potential root causes of any symptoms or conditions you may have.
Review your results in just days with our functional medicine doctors, nurses, and dietitians who will help you achieve optimal health.
Learn about High cholesterol
High cholesterol is a common condition characterized by elevated levels of cholesterol in the blood. Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance naturally produced by the liver and obtained through the diet. While it plays a vital role in forming cell membranes, certain hormones, and vitamin D, too much cholesterol can lead to serious health problems, including heart disease, the leading cause of death worldwide. Its prevalence is significant, with millions of people globally diagnosed with high cholesterol levels, making it a critical public health concern. Understanding and managing this condition naturally can provide a safer, holistic approach towards maintaining heart health and overall well-being.
Causes
The primary causes of high cholesterol include a combination of genetic factors and lifestyle choices. Genetics play a crucial role; for instance, familial hypercholesterolemia is a hereditary condition leading to extremely high cholesterol levels. Lifestyle factors that contribute to high cholesterol include a diet high in saturated and trans fats, lack of physical activity, obesity, smoking, and excessive alcohol intake. Other contributing factors may include age, as cholesterol levels tend to rise with age, and certain medical conditions, such as diabetes and hypothyroidism, which can increase cholesterol levels.
Signs and symptoms
High cholesterol itself often does not cause any symptoms and is typically diagnosed during routine blood tests. However, its long-term effects can lead to symptoms related to the conditions it causes, such as: - Chest pain or angina - Heart attack - Stroke - Pain on walking caused by blocked arteries that can lead to leg pain It's important to get regular health screenings to detect high cholesterol levels early on.
Diagnosing High cholesterol
High cholesterol is diagnosed through a simple blood test called a lipid panel or lipid profile. This test measures total cholesterol, LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol, which is often referred to as "bad" cholesterol, HDL (high-density lipoprotein) cholesterol, dubbed the "good" cholesterol, and triglycerides. Adults are generally recommended to get their cholesterol levels checked every 4-6 years, starting from age 20. However, those with a family history of high cholesterol or other risk factors for cardiovascular disease may need to be tested more frequently.
Prevention and natural treatment
Preventing and treating high cholesterol involves a multifaceted approach focusing on lifestyle adjustments and natural remedies. Key strategies include: - Adopting a heart-healthy diet: Emphasize fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limit intake of saturated fats, found in red meat and full-fat dairy products, and eliminate trans fats from the diet. - Regular Physical Activity: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise each week. - Weight Management: Losing weight can help lower cholesterol levels. - Quit Smoking: Smoking cessation improves "good" HDL cholesterol levels. - Limit Alcohol: Drinking in moderation can attribute to a healthier lifestyle. In terms of natural treatment, certain supplements such as omega-3 fatty acids, soluble fiber (from foods like oats, fruits, and beans), and plant sterols or stanols have been shown to help manage cholesterol levels. Other natural therapies might include the use of red yeast rice and garlic extracts, although it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any supplement, particularly for individuals taking other medications. Functional medicine aims to identify and address the root causes of diseases, and when it comes to high cholesterol, this could mean a deeper investigation into dietary patterns, genetic factors, and lifestyle habits, tailoring prevention and treatment plans to the individual for optimal health outcomes.
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