§ 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.
