Lipid Management in Pasadena, CA
Lipids are fats and fat-like substances in the body that include cholesterol and triglycerides. While they play important roles in energy storage, hormone production, and cell structure, imbalances in lipid levels can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. High levels of LDL (“bad”) cholesterol or triglycerides, or low levels of HDL (“good”) cholesterol, may contribute to plaque buildup in the arteries and lead to a heart attack or stroke if left unmanaged.
At Shine Health and Wellness in Pasadena, CA, lipid management is personalized to each patient’s unique health profile. Led by Kimberley Shine, MD, the practice combines advanced testing, evidence-based medicine, and integrative strategies to help patients achieve healthier lipid levels.
What Causes Lipid Imbalances?
Several factors can contribute to unhealthy lipid levels, including:
- Dietary Habits: High intake of saturated fats, trans fats, and processed foods.
- Genetics: Family history of high cholesterol or lipid disorders.
- Lifestyle Choices: Lack of exercise, smoking, or excessive alcohol use.
- Chronic Conditions: Diabetes, obesity, metabolic syndrome, and hypothyroidism.
- Medications: Certain drugs may affect lipid metabolism
Understanding the underlying causes of lipid imbalances is essential for developing an effective and sustainable treatment plan.
How Lipid Levels Are Diagnosed
Lipid imbalances are typically identified through a simple blood test called a lipid profile, also known as a lipid panel. This test measures:
- Total Cholesterol: The sum of all cholesterol in the blood.
- LDL Cholesterol: Low-density lipoprotein, often referred to as “bad” cholesterol.
- HDL Cholesterol: High-density lipoprotein, the “good” cholesterol that helps remove excess cholesterol.
- Triglycerides: Another type of fat in the blood that contributes to cardiovascular risk when elevated.
At Shine Health and Wellness, these results are interpreted in conjunction with your overall health, family history, and lifestyle factors to provide a comprehensive picture of your cardiovascular risk.
Treatment Options for Lipid Management
Lipid management is not one-size-fits-all. At Shine Health and Wellness, treatment plans are tailored to the individual and may include:
- Medication Management: Prescribing or adjusting medications such as statins or other lipid-lowering agents when appropriate.
- Nutritional Counseling: Developing dietary plans focused on whole foods, fiber-rich meals, and heart-healthy fats like omega-3s.
- Lifestyle Support: Encouraging regular physical activity, smoking cessation, and stress reduction techniques.
- Weight Management: Helping patients achieve a healthy weight to improve lipid levels and reduce overall cardiovascular risk.
- Functional Medicine Approaches: Addressing inflammation, hormone imbalances, and gut health, all of which can influence lipid metabolism.
- Ongoing Monitoring: Regular follow-up appointments to track progress and make necessary adjustments.
This comprehensive approach empowers patients to actively participate in their care and achieve lasting improvements.
Preventing Long-Term Complications
Uncontrolled lipid imbalances can lead to serious cardiovascular conditions such as atherosclerosis, coronary artery disease, heart attack, and stroke. By managing lipid levels proactively, patients can reduce their risk of complications and improve overall heart health. Shine Health and Wellness emphasizes prevention, equipping patients with the knowledge and tools they need to maintain healthy lipid levels and live with confidence.
Why Choose Shine Health and Wellness?
Kimberley Shine, MD, has more than a decade of medical experience and specializes in integrative and functional medicine. She believes that successful care begins with a strong doctor-patient relationship, where patients feel listened to, respected, and empowered. By focusing on root causes rather than just symptoms, Dr. Shine and her team provide comprehensive treatment plans designed to deliver real, lasting results.
Take Control of Your Lipid Health Today
Managing cholesterol and triglycerides is one of the most important steps you can take for your heart health. At Shine Health and Wellness in Pasadena, CA, Dr. Kimberley Shine and her team are here to guide you with personalized lipid management plans that focus on prevention, treatment, and overall well-being. Call 626-317-0207 today to schedule a consultation.