December 4, 2024

Addressing Dyslipidaemia through Functional Medicine: A Comprehensive Approach to Heart Health

by Dr. Andrew Fong

Do you know what is more important will be the quality of the cholesterol, we analyse and show our patients the ratio of different cholesterol and corelate them with other inflammatory markers to assess their cardiovascular risk and suggest them what kind of investigations that they need further, This will save our patients’ time and money, at the same time reduce their exposure to continuous radiation or unnecessary invasive procedures or medications.

 

At Ageewell clinic, we understand that dyslipidaemia—characterized by abnormal levels of cholesterol or triglycerides—can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other serious health conditions. Our functional medicine approach aims to identify and address the underlying factors contributing to dyslipidaemia, providing you with the support needed to improve your lipid profile and overall cardiovascular health.

 

Signs ad symptoms

  1. Xanthomas, yellowish deposits under skins often around eyes, joints
  2. Corneal Arcus, a grey or white ring around the corner in the eyes
  3. Peripheral artery disease, pain in the legs especially when walking longer distance
  4. Chest pain, as high cholesterol contributes to atherosclerosis (plaque formed on artery wall) can lead to angina or chest pain.

 

Comprehensive Assessment

We start with a detailed assessment to understand the root causes of dyslipidaemia, which may include:

  • Lipid Profile Testing: Measuring total cholesterol, LDL (low-density lipoprotein), HDL (high-density lipoprotein), triglycerides, and advanced markers like lipoprotein(a) and small dense LDL particles to understand your specific lipid imbalances.
  • Inflammatory Marker Testing: Checking markers such as C-reactive protein (CRP) and homocysteine, as inflammation can play a significant role in lipid abnormalities.
  • Hormonal Testing: Assessing thyroid, insulin, and cortisol levels, as hormonal imbalances can contribute to dyslipidemia.
  • Genetic Testing: Evaluating genetic markers (such as ApoE genotype) that may influence lipid metabolism and cardiovascular risk.
  • Nutrient Deficiency Testing: Identifying deficiencies in critical nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids, magnesium, and CoQ10 that can impact lipid health and cardiovascular function.

 

Personalized Treatment Plans

Based on your unique profile, we develop a customized plan to improve your lipid levels and support long-term heart health, which may include:

  • Nutritional Support: Emphasizing a heart-healthy diet that helps lower LDL, raise HDL, and reduce triglycerides. Key components include:
    • High-Fiber Foods: Including oats, beans, lentils, fruits, and vegetables to help reduce cholesterol absorption and support healthy lipid levels.

  • Healthy Fats: Incorporating sources like avocados, olive oil, nuts, seeds, and fatty fish to increase beneficial HDL cholesterol and lower inflammation.
  • Anti-inflammatory Foods: Such as turmeric, ginger, and leafy greens to help reduce chronic inflammation, which can worsen dyslipidaemia
  • Limiting Processed Foods and Sugars: Avoiding trans fats, refined sugars, and highly processed foods that can increase LDL and triglycerides.

 

Targeted Supplementation such as:

  • Omega-3 Fatty Acids to lower triglycerides, reduce inflammation, and improve HDL levels.
  • Red Yeast Rice as a natural option to help lower LDL cholesterol (used carefully under practitioner supervision).
  • Niacin (Vitamin B3) to improve HDL levels and reduce triglycerides. • Plant Sterols and Stanols to block cholesterol absorption and support healthy lipid levels.
  • Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) to support heart health, especially for those taking statins, which can deplete CoQ10 levels.

 

Lifestyle Modifications:

  • Regular Physical Activity: Encouraging at least 150 minutes per week or 30 to 40 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise and strength training to improve HDL levels, lower triglycerides, and promote overall cardiovascular health.
  • Weight Management: Providing guidance on achieving a healthy weight, which can significantly improve lipid levels and reduce cardiovascular risk.
  • Stress Reduction Techniques: Teaching practices like meditation, mindfulness, and deep breathing exercises to manage stress, as high cortisol levels can negatively impact lipid metabolism.
  • Sleep Optimization: Supporting good sleep hygiene, as sleep deprivation can increase triglycerides and lower HDL levels.

 

Ongoing Support and Monitoring

Our approach emphasizes ongoing support through regular follow-ups to track your progress and adjust your plan as needed. We work with you to ensure lasting improvements in your lipid profile and overall health. By addressing dyslipidaemia through a functional medicine lens, we empower you to take control of your cardiovascular health and make sustainable lifestyle changes that improve lipid balance and reduce long-term risk. Let us partner with you on your journey to heart health and vitality.

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Co Founder & Functional Medicine Doctor

Dr. Andrew Fong Wai Yew

Qualification

  • Functional medicine consultant
  • Lifestyle medicine consultant
  • Certified Nutritional medicine
  • Certified Practitioner in Bio identical Hormone Restorative Medicine
  • Homeopathy Advisor
  • Member of Society of Anti Aging, Aesthetic and Regenerative Medicine Malaysia (SAAaRMM)