Advanced Lipid Testing

Cholesterol is carried in the body by molecules called lipoproteins.  It is these lipoproteins that can clog the arteries, not the amount of cholesterol in them.   Research has shown that there are different sizes of LDL and HDL particles; some are much more dangerous than others.   Advanced lipoprotein testing identifies these particles and gives your doctor more information to help make an effective treatment decision to reduce your risk of heart disease.  According to the National Cholesterol Education Program, 50% of people who have a heart attack have normal cholesterol levels.    This type of advanced testing is especially recommended if there is a personal or family history of diabetes; you’re LDL, HDL, and/or triglyceride levels are elevated; you are overweight; you have metabolic syndrome; or you are taking cholesterol lowering medications.

Dr. Anne Hermann, a holistic internal medicine physician offers advanced lipoprotein testing to her patients.  Offices are maintained in Tampa and Saint Petersburg Beach, Florida.  Please call the office at (813) 902-9559 for more information or to schedule an appointment.

 

 

How Can I Naturally Lower My Cholesterol?

High cholesterol or hyperlipidemia, is defined as elevated circulating lipids in the blood.  Hyperlipidemia is typically asymptomatic, and is discovered during routine screening blood work.  Left untreated, hyperlipidemia may lead to atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease.  Together, you and your physician can determine the best way to control your hyperlipidemia.  Along with diet and exercise, there are a number of vitamins, minerals and supplements that may be beneficial in lowering lipids.

  • Red Rice Yeast
  • Coenzyme Q 10
  • Omega 3
  • Manganese
  • Magnesium
  • Vitamin B3
  • Vitamin C
  • Vitamin D
  • Vitamin B5
  • Carnitine
  • Lipoic Acid
  • Inositol
  • Choline
  • Chromium
  • Copper
  • Zinc
  • Selenium

Dr. Anne Hermann, a holistic internal medicine physician, maintains offices in Tampa and Saint Petersburg Beach, Florida.  Dr. Hermann is also board certified in nutrition, and offers comprehensive vitamin testing to her patients.  Please contact the office at (813) 902-9559 for more information or to schedule an appointment.

This post was written by Anne Hermann. Follow Anne Hermann on Google, Facebook, Twitter & Linkedin.

What Is The Mediterranean Diet?

High cholesterol or hyperlipidemia, is defined as elevated circulating lipids in the blood.  High concentrations of cholesterol or triglycerides, which mainly occur due to saturated fat consumption,  can lead to increased risk of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease.   Hyperlipidemia is typically asymptomatic, and is discovered during routine screening blood work.  Foods high in saturated fats often come from animal sources – whole milk, butter, cheese and meat.  Additionally, tropical oils such as palm and coconut are also high in saturated fats.  These oils are commonly used in processed foods.

The Mediterranean diet is one of the most recommended diets for cardiovascular health.  It is the traditional diet consumed in Greece, Spain, Portugal, Turkey and Southern Italy.  It is traditionally high in the consumption of:  fruits and vegetables, legumes and plant proteins, whole grains, fresh fish, nuts and olive oil.  It has been proven beneficial in the reduction of high cholesterol, cardiovascular disease, some cancers, blood sugar levels and cognitive decline.

Dr. Anne Hermann is double-board certified in internal medicine and nutrition.  Dr. Hermann maintains offices in Tampa and St. Petersburg Beach, Florida.  Please contact the office at (813) 902-9559 for more information or to schedule an appointment.

This post was written by Anne Hermann. Follow Anne Hermann on Google, Facebook, Twitter & Linkedin.