High cholesterol is a common condition that can lead to serious health issues if left untreated. While conventional medicine often treats high cholesterol with medications, functional medicine takes a holistic approach to identify and address the underlying causes of this condition. In this article, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, and treatments of high cholesterol from a functional medicine perspective.

Symptoms of high cholesterol

High cholesterol often does not have any noticeable symptoms, which is why it is important to have regular cholesterol screenings. However, in some cases, high cholesterol can lead to symptoms such as:

• Yellowish patches or bumps on the skin.
  
• Chest pain or tightness.
  
• Shortness of breath.

Causes of high cholesterol

The causes of high cholesterol can vary from person to person, and can be influenced by a number of factors including genetics, lifestyle, diet, environmental toxins, stress, and hormonal imbalances. Some common triggers include:

• Diet: A diet high in saturated and trans fats, and low in fiber and nutrients, can contribute to high cholesterol.
  
• Genetics: Certain genetic factors can affect cholesterol levels and contribute to high cholesterol.
  
• Chronic inflammation: Chronic inflammation can contribute to high cholesterol and damage the blood vessels.
  
• Hormonal imbalances: Hormonal imbalances, such as thyroid dysfunction or adrenal fatigue, can contribute to high cholesterol.
  

Treatments for high cholesterol

Functional medicine approaches to treating high cholesterol involve identifying and addressing the underlying causes of the condition. Some common treatments include:

• Dietary modifications: A healthy diet that includes whole, unprocessed foods, and is low in saturated and trans fats, can help lower cholesterol levels.
  
• Lifestyle modifications: Regular exercise, stress-reduction techniques such as meditation and yoga, and adequate sleep can help improve overall health and lower cholesterol levels.
  
• Nutritional supplements: Supplements such as omega-3 fatty acids, plant sterols, and niacin can help support heart health and lower cholesterol levels.
  
• Environmental modifications: Reducing exposure to environmental toxins and pollutants, and using natural cleaning products can help reduce inflammation in the body and support overall health.
  
• Medications: In some cases, medications may be prescribed to help lower cholesterol levels.
  

Tests for high cholesterol

• Blood sugar
• Cholesterol
• Gut tests
• SIBO
• Hormone tests: Adrenals, Thyroid, Estrogen & progesterone, Men’s hormones, Women’s hormones
• Nutrition tests: Amino acids, Fatty acids, Minerals, Vitamins (A, B3, B5 & Biotin), Vitamins (B12, folate, D, E & Q10), Vitamins (All)
• Heavy metals
• Organic acids

In conclusion, high cholesterol can be caused by a variety of factors, and functional medicine approaches to treatment involve identifying and addressing the underlying causes to provide long-lasting relief from symptoms. By addressing the root causes of high cholesterol, individuals can maintain and improve their heart health and overall well-being.