High Cholesterol

---

High cholesterol is a common health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Cholesterol is a fatty substance that is naturally produced by the liver and is essential for the normal functioning of the body. However, when there is an excessive amount of cholesterol in the blood, it can accumulate in the walls of the arteries and form plaques, which can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. In this article, we will discuss the causes of high cholesterol, its effects on the body, and how Naturopathic Medicine can help in managing this condition. 

 Various Factors That Can Contribute To High Cholesterol Levels In The Blood:

1. Unhealthy Diet: Consuming foods that are high in saturated fats, trans fats, and cholesterol can increase the levels of bad cholesterol (LDL) in the blood.
2. Lack of Physical Activity: A sedentary lifestyle can lead to weight gain, which can increase the levels of bad cholesterol in the blood.
3. Genetics: High cholesterol levels can run in families and can be caused by genetic factors.
4. Age and Gender: Cholesterol levels tend to increase with age, and men are more likely to have high cholesterol levels than women.
5. Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions such as hypothyroidism, diabetes, and kidney disease can cause high cholesterol levels.

High cholesterol levels can have serious consequences for your health. The excessive buildup of cholesterol in the arteries can cause atherosclerosis, which can lead to various health conditions, including:

Effects Of High Cholesterol On The Body:

1. Coronary Artery Disease: The buildup of plaque in the coronary arteries can cause chest pain, shortness of breath, and heart attacks.
2. Stroke: The buildup of plaque in the carotid arteries can cause a blockage that can lead to a stroke.
3. Peripheral Artery Disease: The buildup of plaque in the arteries of the legs can cause leg pain and numbness.
4. High Blood Pressure: The buildup of plaque in the arteries can cause the heart to work harder, leading to high blood pressure.

Naturopathic Medicine Approach:

Naturopathic Medicine is a holistic approach to healthcare that focuses on treating the whole person, not just the symptoms. In addition a holistic approach aims to address the root causes of and promote overall wellness. Naturopathic Doctors (NDs) use natural therapies such as Diet, Lifestyle Changes, Homeopathy, Hydrotherapy, Nutritional Supplements, and Herbal Medicines are a few ways Dr. Shah treat her patients. 

How Naturopathic Medicine Can Help In Managing High Cholesterol:

1. Dietary Changes: NDs can recommend a diet that is low in saturated fats, trans fats, and cholesterol, and high in fiber, fruits, and vegetables. This can help to reduce the levels of bad cholesterol in the blood.
2. Exercise: NDs can recommend an exercise program that includes aerobic and strength training exercises. Exercise can help to increase the levels of good cholesterol (HDL) in the blood and reduce the levels of bad cholesterol.
3. Nutritional Supplements: NDs can prescribe nutritional supplements that can help to lower cholesterol levels.
4. Herbal Medicines: NDs can prescribe herbal medicines that have been shown to lower cholesterol levels.
5. Stress Reduction: NDs can recommend stress reduction techniques such as meditation, yoga, and deep breathing exercises. Chronic stress can lead to high cholesterol levels, and reducing stress can help to lower cholesterol levels.

Dr. Shah, uses a variety of integrative medicine therapies to help her patients with High Cholesterol call our office for a free consultation. 

Book a Free Discovery Call with Dr. Shah call (847) 888-3131