Cardiovascular Issues
Such as high cholesterol, high blood pressure, atherosclerosis, coronary artery disease
Cardiovascular disease is one of the top contributors to death and disability globally. In individuals with cardiometabolic dysfunction, uncovering underlying factors such as insulin resistance, chronic inflammation, autoimmune activity, toxic exposures, genetic mutations and hormonal imbalances can offer valuable opportunities for targeted interventions, prevention strategies, and potentially even reversal of certain cardiovascular issues such as high cholesterol.
What factors influence cardiovascular disease?
Dietary habits, lifestyle choices, and nutritional status are among the primary contributors to cardiovascular disease. Diets high in processed foods, added sugars and unhealthy fats can promote hypertension, atherosclerosis, and elevated cholesterol. Sedentary behavior, chronic stress, poor sleep, and smoking further increase cardiovascular risk. Hormone disrupting chemicals and heavy metal exposures such as cadmium and lead can contribute to the development of cardiovascular disease. Deficiencies in essential nutrients such as magnesium, potassium, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants can impair inflammatory cascades, vascular and heart function. Addressing these factors through balanced nutrition, regular physical activity, stress management, and targeted supplementation is key to supporting heart health and reducing disease risk.
How can the functional medicine perspective help?
In depth functional testing such as lipid particle size panels, insulin resistance panels, genetic testing, nutritional evaluations, gut microbiome testing, hormone assessments and toxic exposure testing can be useful in identifying areas where additional support is needed. Supporting individuals in dietary shifts, lifestyle interventions and reducing toxic exposures can profoundly improve health status, support prevention and often times aid in the reversal of these cardiovascular issues.