From the Guidelines
The most effective approach to functional medicine involves a personalized regimen that prioritizes omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA and DHA from fish oil, due to their established benefits in reducing cardiac death and supporting cardiovascular health. When considering potent supplements and natural compounds, it's essential to weigh the evidence for their effectiveness and potential risks. According to the study published in Circulation 1, fish oil may be considered as a supplement for CVD prevention, especially among patients with prevalent CHD, based on reduction of cardiac death.
Key considerations for a functional medicine approach include:
- Omega-3 fatty acids (1-3g daily), specifically EPA and DHA from fish oil, for their anti-inflammatory effects and cardiovascular benefits
- The potential benefits of other supplements like vitamin D3, magnesium, probiotics, curcumin, ashwagandha, rhodiola, and N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC) should be evaluated on an individual basis, considering the current evidence does not strongly support their use for duplicating the cardioprotective benefits of healthful foods
- Functional foods with plant sterols/stanols may be considered for people with higher cholesterol levels who do not qualify for or have insufficient response to pharmacotherapy, although their potential impact on clinical endpoints and toxicities requires further investigation 1
- The PREDIMED trial suggests that supplementation with extra-virgin olive oil or mixed nuts, combined with advice to consume a Mediterranean-type diet, can lead to significant reductions in cardiovascular events, indicating these foods could be considered as evidence-informed functional foods to reduce CVD events 1
Implementation strategies should include:
- Starting with one supplement at a time to monitor effects
- Taking fat-soluble supplements with meals containing healthy fats
- Consulting with a healthcare provider before beginning any regimen, especially if you have existing health conditions or take medications
- Prioritizing a balanced diet rich in whole, nutrient-dense foods as the foundation of functional medicine approaches, with supplements used to address specific deficiencies or health needs.
From the Research
Potent Supplements for Functional Medicine
- Omega-3 fatty acids, specifically EPA and DHA, have been linked to various health benefits, including healthy aging, fetal development, cardiovascular function, and Alzheimer's disease 2
- Vitamin D supplementation has been shown to increase serum levels of vitamin D in healthy and Crohn's disease populations 3
- Dietary supplements, such as vitamin A, iron, folic acid, calcium, and vitamin D, can help meet nutritional requirements for individuals at risk of deficiencies, particularly in developing countries 4
Natural Compounds for Functional Medicine
- Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish and fish-oil products, are important for proper fetal development, cardiovascular function, and may have benefits in preventing Alzheimer's disease 2
- Vitamin D, often obtained through sun exposure, diet, or supplements, is essential for bone health and may have benefits in reducing the incidence of cancer and cataracts 4
Safety and Efficacy of Supplements
- The use of dietary supplements should be recommended and monitored by a physician, as some supplements can be adulterated with banned substances or have adverse interactions with other medicines 5, 6
- The efficacy and safety of supplements can vary depending on the individual preparation and population being studied, highlighting the need for evidence-based information to facilitate informed decision-making 6