What to consider before agreeing to a statin for high LDL-C?
What would you consider before taking a statin for high LDL-C cholesterol, or what would you do to try to bring it down?
PCP just advised LDL-C is "high". All other values are "normal". Overall cholesterol, HDL, weight, and blood pressure are all normal. What I have done already is reduce intake of red meat and cheese. What I have not done is reduce Trans Fats and Saturated Fats. A few of my favorite foods are high with those fats, and I believe if I reduce that I may be able to lower the LDL-C. Perhaps I can add more fruits and green tea instead of coffee. Is that ever effective? Am I on a losing proposition?
Doctor seems to be willing to try a few dietary changes before jumping to a statin. He told me the advantages outweigh the risks, but he has no idea that this strikes a chord of fear deep in my soul. I have seen my mother experience several of the documented side-effects of being on statins such as neuropathy, muscle pain, weakness and cognitive decline. It has been, in a word, horrible.
She had an episode of yellow skin and dark urine which indicated liver issues, but it eventually resolved. Mom now has severe mobility issues, says "ouch" every time she tries to stand up from her wheelchair, muscle atrophy, and Stage 6 dementia. I cannot think of taking a statin without believing this is where the road will end for me. This feels like a no-win decision. Nobody can tell me for sure that mom's statins the last 20 years lead to her current state, but nobody can tell me they did not either.
Thanks for any thoughts.
We love Tasty Kakes a Philly tradition. But they are made with hydrogenated shortening (Crisco). When we cut out Tasty Kakes our numbers come down. You need to get that High Cholesterol and Transgliserides down.
I had a colleague, a very slender young woman who had familial high cholesterol. She controlled it by drinking tea - green I think.
My mother refused statins for years , then finally accepted taking them ( after her stroke ) but often skipped her statin. She had a stroke at 80 followed by vascular dementia , died at 88.
My brother never went to the doctor , had a heart attack and stents at 58. Has been on statins ever since .
I was told by doctor that some families high bad cholesterol is 70 % genetic , people actually make their own cholesterol and only a very strict diet might help, but maybe not . Statins are recommended for these people to prevent heart attacks and strokes. Due to my family history , I take my statin. I do not notice any side effects .
I don’t think there is a one size fits all answer . I also don’t think this Forum could give you the answer . This should be between you , your doctor , and possibly help from a dietitian .
My Italian Grandmother (who passed at 96 taking 0 medications prior) ate 2 soft-boiled eggs and toast and coffee every morning of her life. She had a traditionally large meal at lunch, then a lighter dinner. No snacking in between, desserts on holidays and birthdays only. She sometimes had a shot of sherry or sweet vermouth and bitters to "stimulate" her appetite. She drank 1 glass of red or white wine or beer with dinner. sometimes had an aperatif/cordial (in very modest amounts).
In retirement she lived in FL and ate a lot of freshly caught fish, a wide variety. She seldom ate anything deep fried (yummy but deadly).
Exercise, even just brisk walking.
I've already told my primary to never bother suggesting statins to me because I don't have other risk factors, my good cholesterol is exceptionally high, plus no history of heart disease in my Mom or her 7 siblings. I get that others have to make a choice whether to take them or not due to other health issues.
To naturally reduce your LDL cholesterol, increase soluble fiber intake from oats, beans, fruits, and vegetables, consume healthy fats from avocados, nuts, and olive oil, and limit saturated and trans fats found in red meat, full-fat dairy, and processed foods. Regular exercise, weight management, and avoiding smoking also play key roles in lowering "bad" cholesterol levels.
Dietary Changes
Increase Soluble Fiber: Soluble fiber helps block cholesterol absorption. Good sources include oats, barley, beans, lentils, apples, pears, and Brussels sprouts. I take fiber pills from Wal Mart with dinner nightly.
Choose Healthy Fats: Replace saturated fats with unsaturated fats found in olive oil, avocados, nuts, seeds, and fatty fish (like salmon and mackerel). Walnuts in particular are good.
Limit Unhealthy Fats: Reduce your intake of saturated fats (found in red meat, butter, and full-fat dairy) and eliminate trans fats (often in processed baked goods and fried foods).
Incorporate Plant Sterols and Stanols: Foods fortified with these substances, such as some margarines and juices, can help lower LDL cholesterol.
Focus on Whole Foods: Adopt a Mediterranean or DASH-style eating pattern rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, while limiting ultra-processed foods and refined sugars.
Lifestyle Adjustments
Exercise Regularly: Physical activity can help improve your cholesterol levels and overall heart health.
Lose Weight: If you are overweight, losing excess weight can significantly help lower your LDL cholesterol.
Quit Smoking: Smoking can negatively impact your cholesterol levels, so quitting is an important step for heart health.
Important Considerations
Consult a Professional: If you are concerned about your cholesterol levels, it's best to speak with a doctor or dietitian to develop a personalized plan.
Consistency is Key: Making sustainable, healthy changes to your diet and lifestyle is crucial for long-term management of your cholesterol.
20 Best Foods to Lower Cholesterol
https://www.prevention.com/food-nutrition/healthy-eating/g33415888/how-to-lower-cholesterol-ghk/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=mgu_ga_pre_d_bm_prog_org_us_g33415888&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=20586698768&gclid=CjwKCAjwlt7GBhAvEiwAKal0csqdn6NZ4gmJdf1zSjMo1Lww-QL73PGBo8AVct70mVBAWIPBn_ejoRoCQfIQAvD_BwE