Dyslipidemia

Dyslipidemia refers to an abnormal amount of lipids (cholesterol/ fat) in the blood. These lipids include cholesterol and triglycerides.

Fat is an important macronutrient that the body needs for many functions, including energy, vitamin absorption, and cell membrane building. Good fats come mainly from vegetables, nuts, seeds, and fish. They differ from saturated fats by having fewer hydrogen atoms bonded to their carbon chains. Healthy fats are liquid at room temperature, not solid.The worst type of dietary fat is trans fat. It is a byproduct of a process called hydrogenation that is used to turn healthy oils into solids. So one should avoid trans fats, have polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats that are good for you, and limit saturated fats.

Cholesterol is mainly of 2 types-

• Low-density lipoprotein (LDL), often referred to as "bad" cholesterol, can build up in your arteries and form plaque. This plaque narrows the arteries, reducing blood flow to your organs and increasing your risk of heart disease and stroke.
• High-density lipoprotein (HDL), also known as "good" cholesterol, helps remove LDL cholesterol from your arteries and transport it back to your liver, where it can be broken down and eliminated from your body.

Triglycerides are another type of lipid that comes from the calories you eat. High levels of triglycerides can also contribute to heart disease.

In Ayurveda, dyslipidemia is understood through the lens of Doshas and Dhatus.

Doshas: Ayurveda recognizes three primary energies governing the body's functions: Vata (air and space), Pitta (fire and water), and Kapha (earth and water). An imbalance in these doshas can lead to various health issues.

Dhatus: These are the seven bodily tissues – Rasa (plasma), Rakta (blood), Mamsa (muscle), Meda (fat), Asthi (bone), Majja (bone marrow), and Shukra (reproductive fluids). Meda dhatu specifically refers to fatty tissue.

Ayurvedic Cause of Dyslipidemia:

• Medo Dhatu Vikruti: Ayurveda considers dyslipidemia to be a condition of imbalanced or vitiated Meda dhatu (medo dhatu vikruti). This can be caused by factors like:
• Ama (toxins): Accumulation of Ama due to improper digestion and unhealthy dietary habits can disrupt Meda dhatu formation and function.
• Aggravated Kapha Dosha: Kapha dosha is associated with the water element and governs body structure and lubrication. When Kapha is imbalanced, it can lead to excessive production or sluggish metabolism of Meda dhatu, manifesting as high cholesterol or triglycerides.
• Aggravated Pitta Dosha: In some cases, aggravated Pitta dosha, linked to fire and transformation, can lead to the formation of "Ama Pitta," a hot and toxic form of Ama that can disrupt Meda dhatu metabolism.

Types of Dyslipidemia:

• Primary dyslipidemia is caused by genetic factors.
• Secondary dyslipidemia is caused by other medical conditions or lifestyle choices

• Primary dyslipidemia: This type of dyslipidemia is caused by genetic mutations that affect the way your body processes cholesterol and triglycerides.
• Secondary dyslipidemia: This type of dyslipidemia is caused by other medical conditions or lifestyle choices, such as-
• Obesity
• Unhealthy diet (high in saturated and trans fats, low in fibre)
• Physical inactivity
• Diabetes
• Hypothyroidism
• Chronic kidney disease
• Liver disease
• Smoking
• Alcohol abuse
• Certain medications like beta blockers, diuretics, oral contraceptives.

Treatment and management:

Dietary Modifications (Pathya)-

• Reducing Ama (toxins): Ayurveda emphasizes reducing Ama, a sticky, toxic substance that can impede proper digestion and metabolism. This may involve consuming easily digestible foods and avoiding processed foods, excessive sugar, and refined carbohydrates.
• Limiting Saturated and Trans Fats: recommends reducing intake of foods high in saturated and trans fats, which can contribute to bad cholesterol.
• Balancing Doshas: Specific dietary recommendations may be made based on your dominant dosha (Vata, Pitta, or Kapha). For example, Kapha-dominant individuals might benefit from reducing Kapha-aggravating foods like dairy and sweets.

Herbal Remedies-

• Guggul: This resin is a popular Ayurvedic herb known for its cholesterol-lowering properties.
• Triphala: This herbal blend of Amalaki, Bibhitaki, and Haritaki may help improve digestion and detoxification, potentially impacting lipid metabolism.
• Other Herbs: Depending on your specific needs, other herbs like Arjuna, Punarnava, and Turmeric may be incorporated for their blood vessel-supporting and circulation-promoting properties.

Therapies-

Panchakarma-

• Virechana (Purgation): This therapeutic procedure uses herbs to cleanse the digestive system and eliminate toxins.
• Basti (Enemas): Medicated enemas can help cleanse and revitalize the body, potentially impacting lipid metabolism.

Naturopathy-

• Hydrotherapy involves using water for therapeutic purposes. Techniques like saunas or contrast showers may be used to improve circulation and potentially promote detoxification.
• Acupuncture or Acupressure: These traditional techniques are used to improve circulation and potentially influence lipid metabolism, although research is limited.

Yoga asanas -

• Surya Namaskar (Sun Salutation)
• Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose)
• Dhanurasana (Bow Pose)
• Sarvangasana (Shoulder Stand)
• Halasana (Plough Pose)
• Matsyasana (Fish Pose)
• Ardha Matsyendrasana (Half Spinal Twist)
• Paschimottanasana (Seated Forward Bend)

Home Remedies-

• Garlic: Consume 1-2 raw garlic cloves daily. You can also use garlic in cooking or take garlic supplements.
• Turmeric: The curcumin compound in turmeric shows promise in reducing inflammation, which can be a factor in heart disease.
• Fenugreek: This herb helps lower blood sugar levels, which can indirectly improve cholesterol levels.
• Flaxseeds: Ground flaxseeds can be added to cereals, smoothies, or baked goods.