Inflammation and Heart Disease: A Functional Medicine Approach to Prevention and Treatment

While it's widely recognized that factors such as high cholesterol and smoking drive the progression of heart disease, there's a lesser-known culprit that might be just as influential – stealthy, low-grade chronic inflammation. In this article, we will explore the growing body of evidence supporting the need to address and treat inflammation holistically to prevent and manage heart disease.

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Understanding Inflammation's Role in Heart Disease

Researchers observed a correlation between high inflammation levels and an increased risk of heart attacks and strokes beginning in the 1990s. In 2008, the JUPITER study found that cholesterol-lowering statin drugs (which also have anti-inflammatory effects) reduced the rate of heart attack and stroke in older adults with elevated inflammatory markers but normal LDL cholesterol levels. However, it was unclear at the end of the study if this result was attributed to the observed reductions in inflammation or cholesterol. In 2017, the CANTOS trial investigated an injectable anti-inflammatory drug in individuals with a history of heart attack and persistent elevated inflammatory markers despite statin therapy. This study demonstrated that targeting inflammation, independent of cholesterol levels, significantly reduced the likelihood of future heart attack or stroke by 15%. The intervention also decreased the need for major surgical interventions by 30%, highlighting the importance of addressing inflammation in preventing heart disease and associated cardiovascular events. (13) 

What is inflammation, and how does it drive heart disease? Inflammation is the body's intricate biological response against harmful stimuli, encompassing pathogens, tissue injury, or irritants. This protective mechanism aims to eliminate the source of cell damage, clear damaged cells, and initiate tissue repair by mobilizing immune cells, blood vessels, and molecular mediators to the affected site. There are two primary types of inflammation: acute and chronic. Acute inflammation is a swift, short-term response occurring immediately after tissue injury, essential for addressing immediate threats and initiating healing. In contrast, chronic inflammation is a prolonged, sustained response lasting up to years and is now understood to be a driving factor of chronic disease.

Arterial inflammation is a pivotal factor in the development and progression of atherosclerosis, a chronic condition characterized by the accumulation of plaques within the walls of arteries. When the inner lining of blood vessels (called the endothelium) becomes damaged or impaired due to factors like high blood pressure or smoking, an inflammatory response is triggered, which allows fat molecules and immune cells to build up in the artery wall, which can evolve into atherosclerotic plaques. Inflammation also causes arteries to become hardened and narrowed and increases the likelihood of plaques bursting, forming blood clots. Such blood clots can partially or completely block the artery, leading to severe cardiovascular events like heart attacks or strokes. (16)

Identifying Inflammation in the Body

Inflammation can be detected and measured through various biological markers that indicate the presence of an inflammatory response in the body. Typical markers include C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha). These markers are typically measured through blood tests. Elevated levels of these markers suggest inflammation and can indicate underlying health issues, including cardiovascular diseases like atherosclerosis. (3) 

Regular screening for these inflammatory markers is crucial, especially in individuals at risk for heart disease. High levels of inflammation are associated with an increased risk of developing cardiovascular conditions, and monitoring these markers can provide valuable information about an individual's cardiovascular health. For instance, high-sensitivity CRP (hs-CRP) is considered a sensitive marker for low-grade systemic inflammation and is often used as a risk predictor for cardiovascular events. Early detection of inflammation through regular screening allows for timely intervention and risk management. (4) 

Functional Medicine Approach to Inflammation and Heart Disease 

Functional medicine takes a holistic and comprehensive approach to addressing heart disease by focusing on the underlying causes and interconnected systems of the body rather than just managing symptoms. This perspective views the body as an integrated and dynamic network of interrelated functions, considering genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors contributing to an individual's health. In the context of heart disease, functional medicine seeks to identify and address imbalances or dysfunctions that may lead to cardiovascular issues. Functional medicine practitioners aim to understand the unique genetic and environmental factors influencing a patient's health, emphasizing personalized and patient-centered care. This approach often involves in-depth assessments, including comprehensive medical histories, advanced laboratory testing, and consideration of lifestyle factors such as nutrition, stress, and physical activity. By identifying and addressing the root causes of heart disease, functional medicine aims to promote optimal cardiovascular health and prevent disease progression. This holistic perspective aligns with the idea that health is not merely the absence of disease but a state of optimal functioning across all aspects of an individual's life.

Functional Medicine Testing for Inflammation and Heart Health 

Advanced functional medicine tests provide a nuanced understanding of cardiovascular health, risk, and disease progression, surpassing the limitations of traditional cholesterol assessments. These results guide personalized interventions, ushering in dietary modifications, lifestyle adjustments, and targeted supplementation to achieve desired health outcomes.

Advanced Lipid Profiles

Recent evidence challenges the traditional reliance on standard lipid panels, which primarily focus on total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), and triglycerides as sufficient indicators for cardiovascular risk stratification. While these metrics offer valuable insights, they may not accurately capture the complexity of lipoprotein metabolism and cardiovascular risk. Emerging research emphasizes the importance of assessing lipoprotein number and density with advanced lipid profiles, rather than merely their cholesterol content, for a more precise evaluation of cardiovascular risk. Advanced lipid testing, such as the NMR LipoProfile by Access Medical Laboratories, measures lipoprotein particles and their subclasses to provide a more detailed picture of atherogenic dyslipidemia. For instance, individuals with a higher number of small, dense LDL particles may be at increased risk, even if their LDL-C levels appear normal.

Apolipoprotein B (ApoB)

ApoB is a protein signature for atherogenic cholesterol-carrying lipoprotein particles, including LDL and very low-density lipoproteins (VLDL). Evidence now points to apoB as a far better predictive marker of cardiovascular disease than LDL-C. Each standard deviation increase in apoB raises the risk of heart attack by 38% in patients without a history of cardiac events or diagnosis of cardiovascular disease. The apoB blood test, such as that through BostonHeart Diagnostics, measures the concentration of apoB-containing lipoproteins in plasma.

Lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a))

Lp(a) is a unique type of lipoprotein particle in the blood, consisting of an LDL particle linked to a specific protein called apolipoprotein(a), that promotes the development of atherosclerotic plaques in blood vessels. Lp(a) is a genetic variant, meaning its levels are largely determined by one's genes. Elevated levels of Lp(a) in the blood have been identified as an independent and significant risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, particularly atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease. Routine lipid panels do not measure this, so blood tests, such as the Lp(a) test by BostonHeart Diagnostics, are required for its assessment. 

Homocysteine

Homocysteine is an amino acid produced in the body as part of normal metabolic processes. However, elevated levels of homocysteine in the blood have been associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and poor cardiovascular outcomes. High homocysteine levels impair endothelial function and cause vascular inflammation and oxidative stress, leading to the development and progression of atherosclerosis. Therefore, the homocysteine blood test, such as the one by BostonHeart Diagnostics, is considered important in stratifying cardiovascular risk.

hs-CRP

hs-CRP is a biomarker that indicates levels of inflammation in the body, particularly in the blood vessels. Elevated hs-CRP levels have been linked to atherosclerosis and an increased risk of heart attacks and strokes. The hs-CRP blood test by BostonHeart Diagnostics helps identify individuals at higher risk for cardiovascular events, even without high cholesterol levels, allowing for more targeted and personalized preventive strategies.

Lipoprotein-Associated Phospholipase A2 (Lp-PLA2)

Lp-PLA2 is an inflammatory enzyme bound mainly to LDL and has been found to be localized in atherosclerotic plaques. LP-PLA2 activity is an independent predictor of coronary heart disease and stroke in the general population. Including the Lp-PLA2 test by BostonHeart Diagnostics in a cardiovascular assessment helps to identify individuals at higher risk of cardiovascular events. 

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Diet and Nutrition in Managing Inflammation

Diet plays a pivotal role in modulating inflammation, influencing its exacerbation or reduction. Certain dietary patterns and nutrients have been associated with pro-inflammatory or anti-inflammatory effects. Diets rich in processed foods, sugars, and unhealthy fats, often referred to as the Western diet, are linked to increased inflammatory markers. (38)

In contrast, an anti-inflammatory diet eliminates and reduces foods that promote inflammation and instead focuses on foods that can prevent and resolve it. The Mediterranean diet, characterized by abundant fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats such as olive oil, is the most well-studied anti-inflammatory diet. Prospective cohort studies have shown the Mediterranean diet to be associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease. The PREDIMED study, published in 2013, reported that individuals supplementing the Mediterranean diet with extra virgin olive oil or nuts displayed a 30% reduction in cardiovascular events compared to those adhering to a low-fat diet. This trial provided robust evidence supporting the cardiovascular benefits of the Mediterranean diet, emphasizing its role in reducing inflammation, improving lipid profiles, and promoting overall heart health.

Lifestyle Modifications for Inflammation Control

In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the significant impact of lifestyle factors on inflammation and cardiovascular health. Research has increasingly highlighted how diet, physical activity, stress, and sleep are crucial in modulating inflammation. Lifestyle choices influence systemic inflammation, oxidative stress, and other processes that contribute to the development and progression of cardiovascular disease. (38) 

Sleep, in particular, has gained attention as a critical component of a healthy lifestyle. Insufficient or poor-quality sleep has been linked to an increased risk of inflammation and cardiovascular issues. The American Heart Association (AHA) has acknowledged the importance of modifiable lifestyle factors and their impact on cardiovascular health by incorporating diet, exercise, and smoking cessation into their "Life's Simple 7" guidelines. Recognizing the integral role of sleep in overall well-being, the AHA has expanded these guidelines to include sleep as one of the "Life's Essential 8." This emphasizes the significance of incorporating healthy sleep practices alongside other lifestyle factors to promote cardiovascular health and reduce the risk of heart disease.

Supplements and Natural Remedies

Turning to nature's pharmacy, dietary supplements and herbal remedies have strong potential in inflammation management.

Omega-3 fatty acids, commonly found in fatty fish and fish oil supplements, have garnered attention for their anti-inflammatory properties. The mechanisms of action include the modulation of inflammatory pathways, such as reducing the production of pro-inflammatory eicosanoids and cytokines. Research supports their role in managing inflammation, with studies demonstrating that omega-3 fatty acids can lower levels of hs-CRP. Additionally, they contribute to cardiovascular health by improving lipid profiles, reducing blood pressure, and exerting anti-arrhythmic effects. The AHA recommends the consumption of fatty fish, rich in EPA and DHA omega-3s, to support heart health based on evidence showing their potential to reduce the risk of cardiovascular events. (6, 8) 

Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, has gained recognition for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It exerts its effects by inhibiting various inflammatory pathways, including the NF-kB pathway, and scavenging free radicals. Studies have suggested that curcumin may reduce inflammation in the cardiovascular system, with potential benefits such as improving endothelial function and decreasing levels of inflammatory markers like CRP.

Antioxidants, including vitamins C and E, beta-carotene, and selenium, play a crucial role in mitigating oxidative stress, a key contributor to inflammation in the cardiovascular system. These compounds neutralize free radicals, preventing them from damaging cells and tissues. Research supports the notion that a diet rich in antioxidants may reduce inflammation and lower the risk of cardiovascular diseases. However, the effectiveness of antioxidant supplements in preventing cardiovascular events remains a subject of ongoing investigation and debate. While early studies suggested potential benefits, more recent research has questioned the efficacy of certain antioxidant supplements. (24) Thus, obtaining antioxidants through a balanced and diverse diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole foods is generally recommended for supporting cardiovascular health.

Self-prescribing supplements without professional guidance may pose risks and undermine their potential benefits. It is crucial to consult healthcare professionals before incorporating supplements into your routine, as individual health needs vary. A healthcare provider can ensure supplements are used safely by assessing specific nutritional requirements and potential medication interactions.

Integrating Conventional and Functional Medicine Strategies 

Integrative cardiology represents a holistic approach that combines conventional treatments with complementary and lifestyle-based strategies to address heart disease comprehensively. Functional medicine focuses on identifying and treating the root causes of cardiovascular issues rather than solely managing symptoms. Functional medicine complements conventional treatments like medications and surgical interventions by integrating personalized lifestyle modifications, nutrition, stress management, and targeted supplementation. This approach addresses cardiovascular risk factors and enhances overall well-being, potentially reducing the reliance on and need for high-risk interventions while promoting a patient-centered and preventive approach to heart health. Integrative cardiology, emphasizing collaboration between conventional and functional healthcare providers, holds promise for optimizing cardiovascular care and improving long-term outcomes for individuals with heart disease. (35) 

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Inflammation and Heart Disease: Key Takeaways

Addressing inflammation is pivotal in preventing and treating heart disease, and adopting a functional medicine approach offers a holistic strategy for managing this crucial aspect of cardiovascular health. Functional medicine, with its emphasis on identifying and treating the root causes of inflammation, complements conventional treatments by incorporating personalized lifestyle modifications, nutrition, and targeted supplementation. Taking a proactive stance towards heart health involves regular monitoring of inflammatory markers and implementing lifestyle changes based on individual needs.