Dyslipidemia, characterized by imbalanced lipid levels like elevated cholesterol and triglycerides in blood has long been touted as a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD). As with most things in our bodies, It's a complex condition, and while statins remain a common treatment for lowering cholesterol, their potential side effects, including muscle pain, liver damage, and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes, have prompted many to explore alternative and complementary approaches. Functional medicine offers a promising path, focusing on identifying and addressing the root causes of dyslipidemia rather than simply managing the numbers.
Latest Research on Statins and T2DM: Focus on Mitochondrial Toxicity
Recent studies have shown a clear connection between statin use and the development of type 2 diabetes (T2DM). Therefore, the potential for statin-associated new-onset diabetes (SAND) should be considered. Encouraging and supporting healthy lifestyle modifications, including diet and exercise, is essential.
Studies suggest that statins, medications used to lower cholesterol, may have an impact on the energy production process within our cells. One study found that statins can trigger a type of cell death in muscle cells, leading to problems with energy production and muscle damage. Another review explored the possibility that statins could cause broader issues with energy production, potentially contributing to various health problems like muscle pain, diabetes, and cognitive impairment.
The Pitfalls of Focusing Solely on Total Cholesterol:
For years, total cholesterol was the primary metric for assessing cardiovascular risk. However, we now understand that this single number provides an incomplete, and sometimes misleading, picture. A high total cholesterol number might not necessarily indicate a high risk of heart disease, and conversely, someone with "normal" total cholesterol could still be at risk. Why? Because total cholesterol doesn't differentiate between the various types of cholesterol and other lipids that play crucial roles in cardiovascular health. Think of it like knowing the total number of cars on a road, but not knowing how many are speeding or causing congestion.
Understanding the Full Lipid Panel:
A comprehensive lipid panel provides a much more nuanced understanding of your lipid profile and CVD risk. It includes:
Measurement | Description |
Total Cholesterol: | While still measured, it's now understood in context with other values. |
LDL Cholesterol (LDL-C): | High levels of LDL often called "bad" cholesterol, can lead to fatty deposits building up in your arteries. This buildup, called atherosclerosis, makes heart attack and stroke more likely. But LDL isn't all the same. There are different types, and the smaller, denser ones are actually worse for you than the larger ones. Standard Cholesterol tests don't usually distinguish between these different types of "bad" cholesterol. |
HDL Cholesterol (HDL-C): | Known as "good" cholesterol, it helps remove LDL cholesterol from the bloodstream and has anti-inflammatory properties. Low HDL-C is a risk factor for CVD. |
Triglycerides: | Another type of fat in the blood, high levels, especially when coupled with high LDL and low HDL, can significantly increase the risk of heart disease. Triglycerides are primarily transported in the blood as very-low-density lipoproteins (VLDL). |
VLDL Cholesterol (VLDL-C): | Very-low-density lipoprotein cholesterol carries triglycerides. Elevated VLDL-C levels are associated with increased risk. |
Apolipoprotein B (ApoB): | This protein is found on LDL particles and is a better indicator of the total number of atherogenic particles than LDL-C alone. Some experts consider ApoB a more accurate predictor of CVD risk. |
Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)]: | This genetically influenced lipoprotein can promote plaque formation and increase clotting risk. It's not routinely measured but can be valuable in individuals with a family history of premature heart disease. |
The Functional Medicine Approach: Digging Deeper
Functional medicine recognizes the complexity of dyslipidemia and aims to identify the upstream factors contributing to the imbalances. This involves a comprehensive assessment, going beyond just looking at the numbers:
Advanced Testing:
Functional medicine practitioners may order additional tests beyond the standard lipid panel, including:
Assessment | Description | Book a service |
Inflammatory markers (e.g., hs-CRP) | Inflammation plays a key role in atherosclerosis. | |
Insulin resistance markers (e.g., fasting glucose, HbA1c, fasting insulin) | Insulin resistance can contribute to dyslipidemia. | |
Thyroid function tests | Hypothyroidism can affect lipid metabolism. | |
Liver function tests | To assess liver health and rule out liver-related causes of dyslipidemia. | |
Advanced lipid testing (e.g., ApoB, Lp(a), LDL particle size) | To get a more detailed picture of atherogenic risk. | |
Organic Acids | The Organic Acids Test (OAT) analyzes over 70 metabolic markers, including gut bacteria and yeast. High levels may contribute to behavioral issues, hyperactivity, movement problems, fatigue, and weakened immunity. | |
C-SAP | A stool analysis checks for the causes of gut problems and ongoing health issues by looking at digestion, nutrient absorption, inflammation, and the balance of bacteria, yeast, and parasites in your gut. | |
Dutch Complete | The DUTCH Complete test measures your daily cortisol levels and how your body processes them. The DUTCH Plus test adds a measurement of your cortisol response when you wake up, giving a more complete picture of your stress hormone system. |
Is Functional Medicine Right for You?
If you're concerned about dyslipidemia and want a more comprehensive and personalized approach, functional medicine may be a good fit. It's particularly helpful for those who:
Prefer a holistic approach.
Want to address the root causes.
Have experienced side effects from statins or wish to explore alternatives.
Are committed to making lifestyle changes.
Category | Description | Book a service/programme |
Dietary Modifications: | Identifying the correct eating plan for your unique needs and prefernces | |
Gut Health Optimization: | Addressing gut imbalances through diet, prebiotics, probiotics, and other gut-supporting therapies can be beneficial. | |
Stress Management: | Identifying the appropriate stress management protocol for you | |
Targeted Supplementation: | Certain supplements, like omega-3 fatty acids, plant sterols, and berberine, may support healthy lipid levels but identifying both the correct type and dosage is vital. | |
Lifestyle Changes: | This includes a range of issues eg oral health, physical activity and sleep hygiene. | |
Personalized Treatment Plan | Exploring past illnesses, medications (some can impact lipid levels), family history (genetic predispositions), and any symptoms suggestive of underlying conditions. |
If you are ready to change your life and don't want to go one more day feeling like you do, then decide on the right service for you. If you need more information then book a free discovery call.
Check out our online store for targeted products to tackle high cholesterol naturally.
Important Note:
Functional medicine should not replace conventional care for high-risk dyslipidemia or existing CVD. Consult with a qualified healthcare professional, including a functional medicine practitioner and your primary care physician or cardiologist, to create a safe and effective treatment plan. They will assess your risk, determine the best action, and monitor progress. Statins, despite potential side effects, are crucial for many at high risk of cardiovascular events and should not be dismissed without thorough discussion with your doctor.
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