In this author’s most recent posts, interventions to include reduction of refined carbohydrate consumption, reduced vegetable oil intake (i.e., omega-6 rich sources), increased omega-3 consumption, and possible use of magnesium supplementation were considered as methods of optimizing blood glucose levels and reducing insulin resistance. In the following sections, this author would like to explore the […]
Read MoreHyperglycemia is a condition whereby glucose is poorly managed and stored throughout cells of the body. The degree of severity can be defined by multiple measures including fasting glucose tests (FGTs); less than 100 mg/dL is normal, ranges from 100 to 125 mg/dL is considered prediabetes.1 If two separate tests produce 126 mg/dL, or higher, […]
Read MoreSedentary behavior and a general overconsumption of calories, especially from processed foods, are primary drivers for overweight/obesity.1,2 Such changes can be identified and tracked by implementing a measure known as body mass index (BMI); a metric relating weight (kilograms) divided by height (metres2) to normative values.3 Other biomarkers that provide meaningful insight into an individual’s […]
Read MoreMetabolic syndrome (MS) is a condition defined as a constellation of risk factors which induce other disease states such as stroke, cardiovascular heart disease (CVD), and diabetes.1 Said biomarkers/risk factors include high blood pressure, decreased high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), elevated low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), abdominal obesity, impaired fasting glucose, and elevated fasting triglycerides.2,3 Therefore, proper […]
Read MoreThe liver is the largest organ in the body providing vital functions such as energy production, detoxification, as well as storing copper, iron, triglycerides, lipid-soluble vitamins, and glycogen.1 Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is condition which threatens said functions and affects as much as 30% of the adult population; a disease now considered a predominant […]
Read MoreVitamin D (VD) is a micronutrient often associated with bone metabolism and bone disease such as osteoporosis. However, VD has been shown to influence both the structure and function of other organ systems, to include the cardiovascular system.1 Such a submission is supported by observational data indicating lower cardiovascular mortality rates amongst individuals during summer […]
Read MoreThe following will consider blood panels with high total cholesterol, high LDL cholesterol (LDL-C), high lipoprotein (a), high free androgen index, high gamma tocopherol, low zinc, low beta-carotene, and high trans fatty acids. As a means of appreciating said markers, associated cardiovascular health consequences, and solutions to optimize said markers, the following will explore the […]
Read MoreLow high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), high low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), a high ratio of total cholesterol/HDL, high alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and a high hemoglobin A1C are common markers on blood chemistry panels. However, left unmanaged, such markers can manifest into conditions unfavorable to health such as cardiovascular heart disease. As a means of appreciating blood […]
Read MoreHigh concentrations of low-density lipoproteins (LDLs), particles that transport and deposit cholesterol as well as phospholipids and proteins, have been associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD).1 In particular, LDLs which contain apolipoprotein B (apoB) as part of their cell structure, are also associated with the development of atherosclerosis.1(9.6) Thus, it is imperative to […]
Read MoreHeavy metal exposure from the environment, food, and water is considered a nearly unavoidable occurrence; a process that slowly develops and worsens over a lifetime.1 Metals such as mercury, lead, arsenic, and cadmium have been identified within individuals, of which there is no known biological benefit. Of particular note; said elements are likely progenitors of […]
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