High Cholesterol

HIGH CHOLESTEROL

Cholesterol is classically measured in a blood test as total cholesterol including LDL and HDL cholesterol.

Cholesterol is classically measured as total cholesterol including LDL and HDL cholesterol and this is typically what the GP will provide from a blood test. LDL cholesterol (low-density lipoprotein) takes cholesterol from the liver to the cells to be used. If it is too high, then it can be linked with plaque formation in the arteries that can lead to heart attacks and strokes. However, the idea that LDL is a bad cholesterol is too simplistic. There are two types of LDL cholesterol, small and dense particles and large and fluffy ones. Small dense particles can get into the lining of your blood vessels and cause damage and inflammation leading to the development of plaques in the arteries. The large and fluffy LDL will not cause damage and may get in the way of the small dense particles and stop them doing so much damage. Functional testing will enable you to find out which type of LDL cholesterol you have; small and dense or large and fluffy.

HDL (high density lipoprotein) cholesterol carries cholesterol from the cells back to the liver. It is linked to positive health outcomes.

Why is cholesterol important?

Synthesis of hormones – cholesterol is the building block for our sex hormones and stress hormones.
It helps to make Vitamin D
Builds our cell membranes so that they are flexible and strong
Providing the protection for our nerve cells to make sure that our nerve impulses are working correctly.
Helps to produce bile which is vital for absorbing fat-soluble vitamins.

What are the main causes of high cholesterol?

Diet – high levels of refined carbohydrates and trans-fats
Genetics – certain genes can predispose us to high cholesterol levels
Low thyroid function

Things you can do:

Eat heart healthy fats and avoid inflammatory fats – bad fats are hydrogenated and partially hydronated oils, trans fats and polyunsaturated oils like vegetable, soy and canola oils. Sources of good fats are avocados, avocado oil, eggs, kefir, nuts and seeds, oily fish.
Remove refined sugars and processed grains and alcohol – have been shown to reduce HDL cholesterol and increase total cholesterol. Better grain options are organic quinoa, wild rice – avoid wheat and corn.
Consume more olive oil – has been shown to drop LDL cholesterol. 2 tbsp a day.
Eat turmeric and garlic – has been shown to reduce total cholesterol levels.

What can Functional Medicine do to support?

Use functional testing to understand more about your cholesterol picture beyond just HDL and LDL by checking type and size of cholesterol particles and other vital markers for cardiovascular health such as Hs-CRP and homocysteine.
Specific dietary plan to address more balance in your lipid profile and blood sugar levels and to reduce inflammation in the vascular system.
Use herbs and supplements that are proven to support healthy cholesterol levels.
Support for lifestyle changes around diet and stress management – important factors in heart health.