February is Heart Health Month, a time to focus on proactive steps to support your cardiovascular wellness. While diet and exercise are foundational, comprehensive lab testing, genetic screening, and natural therapies can provide deeper insights into your heart health.
Critical Heart Health Lab Tests
Standard cholesterol panels don’t always tell the full story. Here are key advanced tests we recommend for assessing heart disease risk:
Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] – A genetically influenced lipoprotein linked to an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and blood clotting. (Tsimikas, 2017)
High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP) – A marker of systemic inflammation, which plays a major role in cardiovascular disease. (Ridker et al., 2002)
Homocysteine – High levels may indicate issues with methylation (MTHFR mutation), which can contribute to atherosclerosis and clotting disorders. (Clarke et al., 2002)
Apolipoprotein B (ApoB) – More predictive of cardiovascular risk than LDL alone, as it measures the total number of atherogenic particles. (Sniderman et al., 2019)
Omega-3 Index – Low omega-3 levels are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and inflammation. (Harris et al., 2007)
Fasting Insulin & HbA1c – Insulin resistance and metabolic dysfunction increase the risk of heart disease. (Reaven, 2005)
Genetic Factors & Heart Risk: The MTHFR Connection
The MTHFR gene mutation affects how your body processes folate and homocysteine, potentially increasing the risk of blood clots, high blood pressure, and heart disease. If you have a family history of early heart disease, stroke, or clotting disorders, testing for MTHFR mutations may be beneficial.
Science-Backed Adaptogens for Heart Health:
Rhodiola Rosea – Helps mitigate stress-related cardiac strain and improve endurance. (Panossian & Wikman, 2010)
Ashwagandha – Reduces cortisol and supports healthy blood pressure regulation. (Choudhary et al., 2017)
Hawthorn Berry – Strengthens the heart muscle and improves circulation. (Tauchert, 2002)
Reishi Mushroom – Lowers inflammation and supports immune function. (Jin et al., 2016)
CoQ10 & Magnesium – Essential for energy production and relaxation of blood vessels. (Rosenfeldt et al., 2007)
Consult with a Provider at Fairfield Family Health:
Every individual’s heart health profile is unique. At Fairfield Family Health, we take a personalized approach to cardiovascular wellness, integrating comprehensive lab testing, lifestyle interventions, and natural therapies to optimize your heart function.
Book a consultation today to assess your heart health risk factors, lab results, and tailored supplement plan with Fairfield Family Health.