Consult a healthcare provider. This condition requires professional medical evaluation and treatment. The information here is for educational purposes only.

Cardiovascular

High Cholesterol

ICD: E78

Dyslipidemia (abnormal cholesterol levels) is a major cardiovascular risk factor affecting millions. While statins are highly effective, natural approaches like omega-3s, plant sterols, berberine, and red yeast rice may help support healthy lipid levels alongside diet and lifestyle changes.

Overview

Understanding Cholesterol

Cholesterol is a waxy substance essential for cell membranes and hormone production. Problems arise when there’s too much LDL (“bad”) cholesterol, which can build up in artery walls, or too little HDL (“good”) cholesterol, which helps remove LDL from arteries.

Lipid Panel Components

Total Cholesterol: Desirable <200 mg/dL
LDL Cholesterol: Optimal <100 mg/dL (lower if high risk)
HDL Cholesterol: Higher is better (>40 men, >50 women)
Triglycerides: Normal <150 mg/dL

Beyond LDL

Modern understanding recognizes that particle number (LDL-P), particle size, and inflammation markers may better predict cardiovascular risk than LDL alone. Triglyceride/HDL ratio is also important.

Common Symptoms

Usually no symptoms until complications occurvery common

Xanthomas (cholesterol deposits under skin)less common

Natural Approaches

Evidence-Based Natural Approaches

Omega-3 Fatty Acids
High-dose fish oil (2–4g/day) significantly reduces triglycerides by 15–30%. The REDUCE-IT trial showed prescription-strength EPA reduces cardiovascular events. EPA+DHA from fish oil or algae supplements support healthy lipid balance.

Berberine
This plant compound reduces LDL by roughly 20–25% and triglycerides by 25–35%, comparable to some statins. Typical doses are 500mg 2–3× daily with meals. Also improves blood sugar.

Plant Sterols/Stanols
Block cholesterol absorption. Around 2g/day reduces LDL by 10–15%. Available in fortified foods and supplements. FDA allows heart health claims for specific doses.

Red Yeast Rice
Contains naturally occurring statins (monacolins). Can reduce LDL 15–25%. Quality varies widely—choose third-party-tested products. Has side effect potential similar to statins.

Soluble Fiber
5–10g/day of soluble fiber (psyllium, oats, beans) reduces LDL by 5–10%. Psyllium (5–15g/day) is particularly effective.

Niacin (Vitamin B3)
Can raise HDL significantly and lower triglycerides. However, recent trials question cardiovascular benefits beyond statins. Extended-release forms reduce flushing.

Diet Strategies

Replace saturated fats with unsaturated fats
Increase soluble fiber intake
Add fatty fish 2–3× weekly
Include nuts (especially almonds, walnuts)
Reduce refined carbohydrates and sugars
Include plant sterols from fortified foods

Conventional Treatments

Statins: First-line treatment (atorvastatin, rosuvastatin, etc.)
Ezetimibe: Blocks cholesterol absorption
PCSK9 inhibitors: Powerful LDL reduction
Fibrates: For high triglycerides
Bile acid sequestrants: Cholestyramine, colesevelam
Icosapent ethyl (Vascepa): Prescription omega-3 for high triglycerides

This section provides context about standard medical treatments. Consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice.

Compounds That May Help

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

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Omega-3 fatty acids are essential polyunsaturated fats that the body cannot produce. EPA and DHA, found primarily in fatty fish and algae, are the most biologically active forms. They are critical for brain structure, cardiovascular health, and controlling inflammation.

Berberine

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Berberine is a plant alkaloid found in goldenseal, barberry, and Oregon grape. It is one of the most effective natural compounds for blood sugar control, with studies showing it can be as effective as metformin. It also significantly improves cholesterol and may support gut health.

Vitamin B3

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Vitamin B3 (Niacin) is essential for energy metabolism and DNA repair. It exists in two main forms: nicotinic acid (causes flushing but improves cholesterol) and nicotinamide (no flushing, different therapeutic uses). Prescription-strength niacin is used to manage dyslipidemia.

High cholesterol significantly increases cardiovascular risk. Work with your healthcare provider to determine appropriate treatment, which may include both medications and natural approaches.