Cholesterol & Triglycerides
Cholesterol
Cholesterol is a vital component of cell membranes, which surround and protect the cells in the body. It plays a role in maintaining the integrity and fluidity of cell membranes, and it is also used to produce hormones such as estrogen, testosterone, and cortisol. Cholesterol is also needed to produce vitamin D, which is important for bone health, and bile acids, which help the body digest fats. The liver is able to produce all the cholesterol the body needs, but cholesterol is also found in some foods, particularly animal products such as meat, eggs, and dairy.
Cholesterol is transported in the blood by lipoproteins, which are particles made up of cholesterol, proteins, and triglycerides. There are two main types of lipoproteins: low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL).
High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL)
HDL is a type of lipoprotein that is primarily made up of protein, with a smaller amount of cholesterol and triglycerides. HDL particles are produced in the liver and released into the bloodstream, where they transport cholesterol and other lipids from peripheral tissues back to the liver for processing and elimination from the body.
HDL cholesterol is often referred to as “good” cholesterol because it can help remove LDL cholesterol from the arteries and transport it back to the liver, where it can be broken down and eliminated from the body. High levels of HDL cholesterol in the blood are associated with a lower risk of heart disease.
A higher level of HDL cholesterol is generally considered better, as it helps remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream. An optimal range for HDL cholesterol is typically above 100 mg/dL.
Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL)
LDL is a type of lipoprotein that is primarily made up of cholesterol, protein, and a small amount of triglycerides. LDL particles are produced in the liver and released into the bloodstream, where they transport cholesterol and other lipids to various tissues throughout the body.
LDL cholesterol is often referred to as “bad” cholesterol because it can build up in the walls of arteries, forming plaques that can narrow and harden the arteries. This can increase the risk of heart disease, heart attack, and stroke. High levels of LDL cholesterol in the blood are a major risk factor for heart disease.
A lower level of LDL cholesterol is generally considered better, as it can help reduce the risk of heart disease. An optimal range for LDL cholesterol is typically less than 60 mg/dL.
Total Cholesterol
Total cholesterol is a measurement of all the types of cholesterol in your blood, including both HDL cholesterol and LDL cholesterol. It is an important indicator of your overall risk for heart disease.
A blood test can measure your total cholesterol level, as well as your levels of HDL and LDL cholesterol. A healthy total cholesterol level is typically less than 200 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) but the lower the better.
Triglyceride
Triglycerides are a type of fat (lipid) found in your blood. They are composed of three fatty acids attached to a glycerol molecule. Triglycerides are produced by the liver and are also found in certain foods, such as meats, dairy products, and cooking oils.
Triglycerides play an important role in providing energy for your body’s cells. However, high levels of triglycerides in the blood can increase your risk of developing cardiovascular disease, especially if you also have other risk factors such as high cholesterol, high blood pressure, or diabetes.
Triglyceride levels can be measured through a blood test, and a healthy range for triglycerides is generally considered to be less than 150 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL).
High Cholesterol & Triglycerides – SILENT CONDITION
High cholesterol usually does NOT cause any noticeable signs or symptoms, which is why it is often called a “silent condition”. However, over time, high levels of cholesterol in the blood can increase the risk of developing atherosclerosis, a condition in which fatty deposits build up in the arteries and restrict blood flow to the heart and other organs. Atherosclerosis can lead to serious health problems, including heart attack, stroke, and peripheral artery disease.
High triglycerides usually do not cause any symptoms and also called a “Silent Condition”, so many people may not realize they have high levels until they get a blood test. In fact, high triglycerides are often associated with other risk factors for heart disease, such as high blood pressure, high blood sugar, and low HDL cholesterol. In the long term, high levels of triglycerides in the blood can contribute to the development of atherosclerosis (hardening and narrowing of the arteries) and increase the risk of heart disease, heart attack, or stroke.
Atherosclerosis Signs & Symptoms
Some of the signs and symptoms that may be associated with atherosclerosis (associated with high cholesterol and triglycerides over time) include:
which may occur during physical activity or when the heart is working harder than usual.
especially during physical activity.
Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs or arms, which may be a sign of peripheral artery disease.
which can be caused by reduced blood flow to the penis due to atherosclerosis.
Yellowish patches or bumps (xanthomas) on the skin, particularly around the eyes or on the hands and feet.
Cholesterol deposits around the eyes, called xanthelasma, which are yellowish, raised, and flat or slightly bumpy.
Small, yellowish lumps or spots (xanthomas) on the tendons in the elbows, hands, or feet.
It is important to note that these symptoms can also be caused by other health conditions, and having high cholesterol levels does not necessarily mean that a person will develop atherosclerosis or experience these symptoms. The only way to know for sure whether a person has high cholesterol is to have a blood test.
Conventional approach
The conventional approach to high cholesterol and triglycerides levels usually involves a combination of medications and regular monitoring. The most common types of medications prescribed to help lower cholesterol and triglycerides levels include Statins, Fibrates, Bile acid sequestrants, and PCSK9 inhibitors.
It is very important to note that lowering cholesterol and triglycerides drugs, such as statins, fibrates, and PCSK9 inhibitors can help manage the condition, but they do NOT cure the underlying condition that causes high cholesterol or triglycerides, such as genetic predisposition, unhealthy lifestyle habits, or certain medical conditions.
Rather, these medications help lower cholesterol levels in the blood by interfering with the body's production, absorption, or breakdown of cholesterol. This can slow down or halt the progression of atherosclerosis (hardening and narrowing of the arteries), and reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular events. However, if the underlying cause of high cholesterol is NOT addressed, cholesterol levels may increase again after discontinuing the medication.
On the other hand, these medications cause many serious side effects over time. Some of the potential side effects of these medications include:
• Muscle pain or weakness: This is the most common side effect of statins and can range from mild to severe. In rare cases, statins can cause a serious condition called rhabdomyolysis, which involves the breakdown of muscle tissue and can lead to kidney damage.
• Digestive problems: Statins can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, or other digestive problems in some people.
• Liver problems: In rare cases, statins can cause liver damage or inflammation, which can lead to jaundice or other symptoms.
• Digestive problems: Fibrates can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or other digestive problems in some people.
• Muscle pain or weakness: Similar to statins, fibrates can also cause muscle pain or weakness, especially when used in combination with certain other medications.
• Gallstones: Fibrates can increase the risk of gallstones, which are hard, pebble-like deposits that form in the gallbladder.
Our approach
We take a holistic and personalized approach to lowering cholesterol and triglycerides by identifying and addressing the underlying factors contributing to high cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
Our approach to lowering triglycerides and high cholesterol treatment in Vancouver Bio Boost Clinic may involve:
We may work with you to identify any dietary imbalances, such as excessive consumption of processed foods or sugar, which can contribute to high cholesterol and triglyceride levels. We may also recommend a personalized dietary plan that includes whole, nutrient-dense foods that support optimal cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
Chronic stress can contribute to high cholesterol and triglyceride levels. We may recommend stress-management techniques such as mindfulness and meditation, to help manage stress and improve overall health.
Gut health can have a significant impact on cholesterol and triglyceride levels. We may recommend testing for gut imbalances such as dysbiosis or intestinal permeability and then address these imbalances with dietary changes or targeted nutraceuticals and supplements.
Some nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and plant sterols can help lower cholesterol and triglycerides. We may recommend targeted nutrient supplementation as a part of a personalized plan to lower cholesterol and triglycerides.
Regular physical activity can help lower cholesterol and triglycerides. We may work with you to create an effective exercise plan that is tailored to your specific needs and goals.
Our approach to lowering cholesterol and triglycerides is individualized and holistic, taking into account your unique circumstances and health history. By addressing the root causes of high cholesterol and triglyceride levels, we can help improve your overall health and reduce the risk of other related chronic disease.
Cholesterol Management Blogs
Decoding Triglycerides
Decoding Triglycerides Introduction: Amid the intricacies of cholesterol and lipids, triglycerides hold a significant place. These fats circulate in our bloodstream, serving as
Unraveling Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL)
Unraveling Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL) Introduction: Cholesterol, a waxy substance found in every cell, plays an essential role in our body’s functioning. However, not
High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL)
Unveiling High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL) In the realm of cholesterol, not all lipoproteins are created equal. High-Density Lipoprotein, commonly known as HDL, stands as