Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) for Hyperlipidemia:

More Presentations from Dr.Naina Mohamed Pakkir Maideen

§   Excessively elevated levels of lipids or lipoproteins in the blood are termed Hyperlipidemia.

§   Any fat-soluble molecules are known as Lipids and the Lipoproteins are the capsules surrounding lipids and transporting them.

§   Cholesterol is one of the most common types of lipids. Elevated levels of cholesterol in the blood are referred as Hypercholesterolemia.

§   Triglycerides are the esters derived from glycerol and three fatty acids. Presence of high levels of Triglycerides in the blood is called Hypertriglyceridemia.

§   The risk factors of Hyperlipidemia include Obesity or Overweight, excessive Alcohol consumption, Physical inactivity, preexisting health conditions such as Diabetes, Hypothyroidism, or Kidney disease. 

§   CAM used to treat Hyperlipidemia may include 

o  Dietary Supplements

¨   Omega 3 Fatty acids

¨   Plant sterols and stanols

¨   Soy protein

¨   Flax seed

¨   Red yeast rice

¨   Blond Psyllium

¨   Oat bran

¨   Whole grain foods (Wheat, Corn, Barley)

¨   Nuts (Walnuts, Almonds)

o  Herbal Supplements

¨   Ginger

¨   Garlic

¨   Ginseng

o  Mind – Body Practices

¨   Transcendental Meditation

¨   Yoga

§   Before considering any dietary supplement, consult with a health care provider.

§   Do not replace scientifically proven antihyperlipidemics with unproven health products or practices.

§   Read and follow the label instructions for the safe use of dietary supplements.

§   Always remember that dietary supplements may interact with medications or other dietary supplements.

§   Discuss with the health care providers about the current use of any CAM approaches.

§   Limit foods high in calories such as soft drinks and candy.

§   Eat a variety of fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, soy products, low-fat dairy products, and whole grain breads, cereals, and pastas.

§   Eat baked or broiled fish at least twice per week.

§   Choose oils and margarines low in saturated and trans fat and high in omega-3 fat, such as canola, soybean, walnut, and flaxseed oils.

§   Avoid foods high in saturated and trans fats, such as red meat, whole milk products, and pastries.

§   Eat less than 6 g of salt or less than 2,400 mg of sodium per day.

§   Get at least 30 minutes of exercise daily.

§   Achieve and maintain ideal body weight.