High Cholesterol
Description
Cholesterol is a vital compound used to build hormones, brain cells, and cell membranes—but imbalances in lipids, especially elevated LDL or low HDL, can raise the risk of heart disease, stroke, and inflammation. Functional medicine views high cholesterol not as a standalone issue, but as a sign of deeper dysfunction—such as insulin resistance, inflammation, oxidative stress, poor liver function, or chronic stress. Rather than simply suppressing cholesterol with medication, we evaluate the full lipid picture and address root contributors with targeted nutrition, supplements, and lifestyle changes.
Symptoms
Fatigue
Brain fog
Shortness of breath on exertion
Chest pain or tightness (advanced)
Xanthomas (cholesterol deposits under skin)
Family history of cardiovascular disease
High blood pressure
Erectile dysfunction (in men)
Poor circulation or cold extremities
Labs & Testing Options
Full lipid panel (LDL, HDL, total cholesterol, triglycerides)
ApoB and LDL particle size
Lipoprotein(a)
hs-CRP and homocysteine (inflammation markers)
Insulin, glucose, A1c (metabolic markers)
Liver enzymes (AST, ALT, GGT)
Omega-3 index
Thyroid panel (as hypothyroidism can worsen lipids)
Treatment Options
Mediterranean or plant-forward Paleo-style diet
Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA/DHA from fish oil)
Berberine and red yeast rice
Fiber (chia, flax, psyllium) to lower LDL
Exercise and strength training
Weight loss (if applicable)
CoQ10 (especially if on statins)
Niacin, tocotrienols, or policosanol (case-dependent)
Addressing inflammation and blood sugar imbalances
Ditch the guesswork—find out what your cholesterol numbers really mean and how to manage them without fear.