Mailbag: Break Free from Cholesterol Lowering Statins
By
Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Posted November 12, 2024
“What’s my alternative to a statin drug for cholesterol control? I’ve been suggested to take Red Yeast Rice a natural cholesterol control.
Best way to keep my arteries clear of plaque?”
– Skipping Statins
Hi Skipping,
I don’t need to tell you how vital cardiovascular health is. However, the medical establishment insists that the only path to heart health is to tightly control your cholesterol levels.
Not so fast! Recent research suggests that the link between cholesterol and heart disease is far more complex than once thought.
In fact, according to some studies, higher cholesterol levels in older adults might even be protective.
Of course, it is still essential to maintain overall cardiovascular health. And if you and your doctor have agreed that reducing your cholesterol is necessary, conventional medicine says statin drugs are the answer.
The trouble is these heavy-duty meds come with potential consequences.
Statins can suppress coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), a vital antioxidant your body produces to help with cell growth and maintenance. Common statin side effects include muscle and joint pain, headaches, dizziness, digestive issues, mental fuzziness, and elevated blood sugars.
And in some cases, statins are linked to liver damage.
If you’re concerned about cholesterol and your heart health, it’s vital to discuss your options with your doctor.
As for statin alternatives, the following are some natural approaches that I typically recommend to my own patients:
- Red Yeast Rice: This supplement contains naturally occurring compounds similar to cholesterol-lowering statins but with fewer side effects. However, using a high-quality, standardized product from a trusted manufacturer is vital, as is working with your doctor.
- Omega-3 fatty acids: These fatty acids in fish oil and algae supplements can help lower triglycerides and increase “good” HDL cholesterol.
- Plant sterols and stanols: These natural compounds, sometimes added to fortified foods, can help block cholesterol absorption.
- Garlic: Studies suggest this spice may help lower cholesterol and reduce plaque formation.
- Coenzyme Q10: This antioxidant may help improve heart health and is often recommended for those who can’t tolerate statins.
- Berberine: This plant compound can lower cholesterol and blood sugar levels.
Supplements aren’t the only way to establish healthier cholesterol levels and support heart health. I recommend several common-sense heart-healthy, lifestyle changes to my patients.
These include…
- Regular exercise: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity most days.
- Mediterranean diet: Rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats.
- Quit smoking: Cigarettes are a major contributor to plaque buildup.
- Stress management: Chronic stress can contribute to inflammation and plaque formation.
- Turmeric: This spice’s active compound, curcumin, can help reduce artery inflammation.
- Green tea: This delicious tea is rich in antioxidants that may help protect arterial health.
Statins aren’t a good fit for everyone. If you’re concerned about taking them, I suggest meeting with a naturopathic or integrative medicine doctor to discuss your case and options.
P.S. This popular artificial sweetener has been linked to dangerous heart risks.
Sources:
Maihofer, A. X., Shadyab, A. H., Wild, R. A., & LaCroix, A. Z. (2020). Associations between Serum Levels of Cholesterol and Survival to Age 90 in Postmenopausal Women. Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, 68(2), 288-296.
Written By Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Nearly 25 years ago, failed mainstream medical treatments left Dr. Olson in constant pain – and his health in ruins. And that’s when he did something REVOLUTIONARY. He began his career in medicine – and dedicated his life to uncovering the true, underlying causes of disease.
Through his innovative medical practices in Tennessee and Colorado, Dr. Olson has helped cure countless seniors from across America of arthritis… heart disease… diabetes… and even cancer. All without risky prescription drugs or painful surgeries.
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