The 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 […]
Read MoreIschemic heart disease (IHD) is the leading cause of death worldwide, making it a considerable global health problem with far reaching consequences in terms of morbidity, and mortality and healthcare costs. However, cardiovascular health can be assessed via analysis of blood biomarkers to include (but not limited to) total cholesterol, homocysteine, alkaline phosphatase, and high-density […]
Read MoreBlood biomarkers such as high triglycerides, high low-density lipoprotein (LDL)/high-density lipoprotein (HDL) ratios, high ferritin, high homocysteine, and low alpha-tocopherol levels have been linked to hypertension and cardiovascular disease (CVD) states. Furthermore, such blood markers are also quite common within blood chemistry panels. As a means of appreciating said markers and their relationship to high […]
Read MoreThe origin of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) remains largely unelucidated, although multiple factors are involved inducing to an array of intestinal and extra-intestinal consequences, to include nutrient maldigestion/malabsorption.1 As such, it is imperative to identify and control underlying drivers of IBD in addition to managing symptoms of the same. One solution, as part of […]
Read MoreThe gastrointestinal tract (GIT) is approximately 7 m long with a 300 meter2 surface area.1 Such an organ functions as a gatekeeper defending against pathogenic organisms while concomitantly allowing for the breakdown, absorption, and passage of nutrients.1(2.3) Thus, physiological aberrations in the GIT can, and do, compromise the individual’s health and homeostasis. To appreciate the […]
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