Dyslipidemia: the most effective dietary supplements

Dyslipidemias are disorders of lipid metabolism characterized by abnormal levels of cholesterol or triglycerides in the blood. These abnormalities may include an elevation of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), a decrease in high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), hypertriglyceridemia, or a combination of these factors​​.

Epidemiology

Dyslipidemias are common in the general population and represent a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease. They are particularly common in patients with type 2 diabetes, affecting nearly 50% of this population. Studies show that lipid abnormalities, notably increased LDL-C and decreased HDL-C, increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, including myocardial infarction and stroke​.

Pathophysiology

The pathophysiology of dyslipidemias involves imbalances in the production, transport and clearance of lipoproteins. LDL-C, often called "bad cholesterol", is particularly atherogenic because it contributes to the formation of plaques in the arteries. In contrast, HDL-C, or "good cholesterol", plays a protective role by facilitating the transport of cholesterol from the arteries to the liver for its elimination. Abnormalities such as LDL oxidation and the presence of small, dense LDL particles increase the risk of cardiovascular disease​​.

Risk Factors

The main risk factors for dyslipidemias include:nn• Genetics : Family history of dyslipidemia.nn• Diet : Diet high in saturated and trans fats.nn• Lifestyle : Sedentary behavior, excessive alcohol consumption.nn• Comorbidities : Diabetes, obesity, hypertension.nn• Age and Sex : Risk increases with age and is higher in men and in postmenopausal women​​.

Treatment

The treatment of dyslipidemias is based on a combination of lifestyle modifications and drug therapies:nn• Lifestyle modifications : Balanced diet, high in fiber and low in saturated fats, increased physical activity, weight loss, reduction of alcohol consumption.nn• Medications : Statins are first-line medications to reduce LDL-C. Fibrates, cholesterol absorption inhibitors (such as ezetimibe), and nicotinic acids can be used as adjuncts to manage elevated triglycerides and increase HDL-C​.nn