Recent research is showing that looking only at LDL, HDL and triglycerides may be too simplistic.  We are learning that particle size and subtypes are helping doctors to determine whether statins may or may not be helpful.

If you are one of many patients in this country confused about cholesterol or dismissing your numbers, it may be time to take a good look at your numbers with your physician.  In addition to the standard  lipid panel (LDL, cholesterol, triglycerides), the VAP test or LPP test may be helpful in helping you and your doctor determine your true cardiovascular disease risk.

Managing cholesterol levels adequately should involve more than just medication management.  Lifestyle modification that includes changes to diet, exercise, sleep and stress all play key roles in reducing cholesterol.  An integrative approach addresses the full spectrum of a patient’s health to help find a number of different ways to reduce cholesterol.

Before we end our Heart month, learn your numbers, and what they may truly imply about your cardiovascular health.

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

What are the most common symptoms of digestive disorders?
Digestive disorders will present bloating, diarrhea, constipation, reflux and abdominal pain. The symptoms can vary from mild discomfort to severe pain.

What are some common triggers of indigestion?
Triggers of poor digestion include stress, poor diet including ingestion of undiagnosed food intolerances, structural abnormalities and nutritional deficiencies. Hormone imbalances can also lead to digestive disorders and vice versa.

What are some typical digestive disorders you see in your patients?
Common digestive disorders include irritable bowel syndrome, constipation, colitis and reflux.

How do you diagnose these “gut” issues?
These can be diagnosed through blood and stool studies and imaging. Occasionally biopsies may be warranted if symptoms continue to be baffling.

What are some natural supplements that can improve and/
or restore digestive health?
At ACHIM, patients are often placed on a gut restoration program. This may involve dietary changes and supplements. Some natural supplements include pre and probiotics, digestive enzymes and Omega-3 supplementation.

What is the difference between the “good” and “bad” gut bacteria?
Digestion heals as inflammatory proteins are taken away and creates the right mix of bacteria is in the gut. Good bacteria, found naturally in yogurt and kefir, help promote digestion and metabolism of food. Bad bacteria contribute to yeast overgrowth in the gut wall and many of the symptoms patients present.

Why is good gut health so important to our overall wellbeing?
Good gut health is the foundation of wellness. It may prove to be the key in preventing cancer, autoimmune disease and hormone imbalances.

When do you recommend genetic testing for women?
Genetic testing is helpful upon diagnosis of breast cancer to help determine a course of treatment and future detection regimens. Many women get genetic testing if a family member has had breast cancer to help themdetermine their risks.
What are the most common risk factors for breast cancer?
The strongest risk factor is family history. Following that, risk factors include smoking, obesity, lack of childbearing or breastfeeding, and hormone
replacement therapy in post-menopausal women. Hormone replacement therapy in perimenopausal women does not appear to increase risks of
breast cancer. Again, it is synthetic hormone replacement therapy, not bio-identical, that seems to confer the risks.
Is there a link between estrogen and breast cancer?
Breast cancer is related to a build up of estrogen in the various tissues of the body, including fat. In addition to simply withholding estrogen from women, we also need to help them understand that estrogen must be broken down and eliminated in the body to prevent estrogen build up.
What is estrogen detoxification?
Estrogen detoxification involves breaking down estrogen into individual metabolites that the body can eliminate. Fiber (in the form of fruits and
vegetables), low saturated fats, and plenty of healthy fats improve estrogen detoxification. Exercise is critical in metabolizing excess estrogen. Stress reduction also plays a role in minimizing hormonal variations that can trigger or activate a breast cancer gene.
What should a patient look for in an integrative medical center?
Patients in an integrative medical center receive individualized treatment plans to help assess their risks for breast cancer and prevention strategies. If diagnosed, our center plays a critical supportive role in helping coordinate conventional therapy with other modalities like acupuncture, nutrition counseling, stress management, and vitamin therapy. Integrative testing is also offered. At ACHIM, we also work with integrative specialists around the country to help patients make informed decisions. This may involve consulting with oncologists nationally and locally.