How to Holistically Heal High Cholesterol

High cholesterol is often spoken of in numbers, but behind those figures lies a complex interplay of metabolic, hormonal, nutritional, and emotional factors. In this guide, we explore not just what cholesterol is, but how to understand and heal it holistically—with wisdom from both traditional naturopathic care and modern science.

What is Cholesterol?

Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance found in every cell of the body. It’s vital for many essential functions, including the production of hormones, vitamin D, and bile acids that help digest fat. The body makes cholesterol in the liver, and it’s also absorbed from certain foods.

There are two main types:

• Low-density lipoprotein (LDL): Often referred to as "bad cholesterol," because elevated levels may increase the risk of arterial plaque buildup.

• High-density lipoprotein (HDL): Often called "good cholesterol," as it helps remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream.

An imbalance between these types or other underlying health factors, can result in high cholesterol, a key risk factor for cardiovascular disease.

Symptoms of High Cholesterol

High cholesterol is often called a silent condition because it typically presents with no obvious symptoms . Many people remain unaware they have elevated levels until it's detected through a routine blood test or until it contributes to a more serious event such as a heart attack or stroke .

In rare cases of very high cholesterol , particularly in individuals with genetic conditions like familial hypercholesterolaemia, more visible signs may appear, including:

• Xanthelasma – yellowish deposits around the eyes

• Cholesterol nodules – on tendons, elbows, or other areas of the skin

• Chest pain (angina) – due to restricted blood flow to the heart

• Leg pain while walking – if arteries in the legs are affected

Because high cholesterol often develops silently, it's essential to explore underlying and contributing factors, such as diet, lifestyle, family history, and inflammation and to monitor levels through regular blood testing.

Early detection allows for proactive, holistic support before complications arise.

Deeper Underlying Causes and Contributing Factors

Cholesterol imbalance is rarely a standalone issue.

In clinical practice, we assess:

• Insulin resistance or type 2 diabetes

• Chronic inflammation

• Thyroid dysfunction

• Hormonal imbalances (e.g. menopause, PCOS)

• Nutrient deficiencies (magnesium, B vitamins, omega-3s)

• High stress and poor sleep

• Poor gut health and liver sluggishness

• Genetic predispositions (e.g. familial hypercholesterolemia)

Understanding the root cause guides the most effective holistic intervention.

What Happens When You’re Diagnosed?

A diagnosis often begins with a blood test revealing elevated total cholesterol, LDL, or triglycerides.

Depending on the severity, your doctor may:

• Recommend dietary and lifestyle changes or refer you to another practitioner specialising in diet & nutrition

• Prescribe medications such as statins

• Refer you to a cardiologist for further risk assessment

But this is also a critical point for further investigation. Cholesterol is not just a number to lower, it’s a signal inviting us to look deeper into metabolic, hormonal, and emotional health.

How Naturopathy Can Support Treatment (and Prevention)

Naturopathic medicine doesn’t replace conventional care, it enhances it.

A naturopath works in partnership with your doctor’s recommendations, focusing on:

• Reducing inflammation

• Supporting liver function

• Restoring gut health

• Balancing hormones

• Addressing stress and nervous system regulation

• Improving sleep, energy, and wellbeing

We begin with a deep case history and clinical testing, including blood work, hormonal and gut assessments, and nutrient status, and create a tailored healing plan from there.

The Role of Holistic Nutrition & Lifestyle

Nutrition is central. Whether you’re addressing cholesterol preventatively or responding to a diagnosis, food is your ally.

• Increase: Wild fish, nuts, seeds, extra virgin olive oil, fibre-rich vegetables, fermented foods, and antioxidant-rich berries and greens.

• Reduce: Trans fats, refined sugar, deep-fried foods, ultra-processed snacks, excess alcohol, and conventionally raised animal products.

• Support metabolism: Through daily movement, blood sugar balance, and nervous system regulation.

Excellent Testing Options

To uncover the deeper picture, we recommend working with your naturopath and GP to explore:

• Advanced cholesterol markers: ApoB, Lp(a), oxidised LDL

• Inflammation markers: hs-CRP, homocysteine

• Hormonal panels: Oestrogen, progesterone, testosterone, thyroid

• Blood sugar control: Insulin, fasting glucose, HbA1c

• Liver and gut testing: Liver enzymes, bile flow, stool microbiome, beta-glucuronidase

• Nutrient levels: Magnesium, selenium, zinc, vitamin D, B12, folate

We can refer or request testing, interpret results, and coordinate care with your medical team.

Supplementation, Herbs & Probiotics

Supplements are chosen for their evidence-backed ability to modulate cholesterol and support underlying imbalances:

• Fish oil (EPA/DHA): Anti-inflammatory, triglyceride-lowering

• Bergamot extract: Reduces LDL and supports liver function

• CoQ10/Ubiquinol: Supports statin users, energy, heart function

• Taurine & Carnitine: Metabolic and fat processing support

• Soluble fibres (e.g. psyllium, inulin): Bind cholesterol and support detox

• Probiotics: Modulate cholesterol metabolism and gut-liver signalling

• Herbs: Globe artichoke, milk thistle, turmeric, and dandelion support liver health and cholesterol clearance
  
  

Very Important: Not All Supplements Are Created Equal

It’s important to remember that the form, absorption rate, and quality can vary significantly between brands and types. Consulting with a qualified professional, such as a practitioner or holistic healthcare provider, ensures that you’re selecting the most absorbable and highest quality supplements for your individual needs. They can help assess your constitution, allergies, intolerances, sensitivities, age, gender, and any medical conditions or symptoms. A professional also considers potential drug interactions and supplement ratios that may be needed based on your unique health profile. Whether it’s over-the-counter or prescription-grade supplements, the quality, effectiveness, and cost can vary widely, making it essential to have expert guidance for the best outcomes.

Stress, Emotion & the Nervous System

Chronic stress raises cortisol, which increases cholesterol production. More importantly, stress alters metabolism, sleep, digestion, and blood sugar—all contributors to elevated cholesterol.

Our approach includes:

• Nervous system regulation practices

• Sleep hygiene

• Emotional processing tools

• Breathwork and movement

This is often the missing link in managing not just cholesterol but overall vitality.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been told to change your diet and lifestyle, we can guide you. If you’re on medication, we can support you to reduce side effects, strengthen your heart and liver, and explore longer-term prevention.

You don’t have to do this alone and you don’t have to guess.

Book a naturopathic consultation with me at Apothēca to get started with your tailored plan.

This guide is for educational purposes and does not replace medical advice. Always speak with your healthcare provider before making changes to medication or treatment plans.