Natural Alternatives to Statins

"A truly elegant taste is generally accompanied with excellency of heart." -Henry Fielding, 18th Century English Writer and Humorist Statins are prescribed drugs that work to lower cholesterol and thus reduce one of the known risk factors for heart attack and stroke. As the body manufactures all of the cholesterol it needs for survival, poor diet and a sedentary lifestyle often give way to high cholesterol levels. Statins, however, block the enzyme required by the liver to produce cholesterol. They also help the body reabsorb cholesterol that has accumulated on plaques in artery walls. This helps to prevent further blockage in blood vessels that causes heart attacks. Among the most widely used statins are Lipitor, Zocor and Crestor. These are effective yet controversial medications that often come with a host of side-effects. Patients have reportedly experienced the following:

• Headaches
• Nausea
• Fever
• Dizziness
• Intense muscle pain
• Serious liver problems

As a precaution against such dangers, many persons have begun to look at natural alternatives to statins. By learning to use healthy habits, diet modifications and natural supplements, people have embarked on a course that negates the need for medication. Serious side effects have also been diminished, giving people a new and safe way to maintain their health.

Lifestyle Changes

Leading a healthy life means reducing the risk of multiple health conditions. As such, cholesterol levels are also effectively managed. Thus, doctors recommend that people examine themselves and how their habits can be altered in order to improve health. First and foremost, persons who quit smoking and drinking significantly reduce their cholesterol and increase heart health. Smoking lowers good cholesterol levels and promotes blood clotting, both of which can lead to heart attack. Similarly, alcohol consumption raises triglycerides, which is another risk factor for heart disease. Stress management is a second lifestyle modification required for persons with high cholesterol. Research suggests that stress causes long-term high cholesterol. A study conducted in the United Kingdom simulated daily life events and then monitored the way 199 different people reacted. Those who responded with stress also demonstrated high cholesterol levels in just a short period of time. Thus, learning to cope is another valuable resource in naturally lowering cholesterol.

Diet and Exercise

Eating a well-balanced diet that is low in fat, cholesterol and salt is yet another step that people can take to reduce their cholesterol. While fruits and vegetables offer a host of nutritional value, experts state the following are also largely beneficial:

• Oat bran, as found in oatmeal and whole oats
• Ground flaxseed, which can be sprinkled over cereal in the morning
• Barley, as found in grains, flour and flakes

Nutritionists advise making a lifelong commitment to healthy eating, rather than considering a short-term diet. The benefits will continue throughout life and mitigate such risks as cardiovascular disease, diabetes and stroke. Individuals should look for healthy dishes that also incorporate the above-mentioned foods. Exercise has also proven to naturally lower cholesterol and vastly improve heart health. Experts recommend exercising 30 minutes per day on most days of the week. Walking, jogging and swimming are proven cardiovascular workouts that provide extenuating benefits. Weight management, stress reduction and improved mobility are but some of the advantages offered by regular exercise.

Herbs and Supplements

Among the herbs and supplements that come recommended by nutritionists, fish oil has proven to be effective at improving overall heart health. This is a dietary source of omega-3 fatty acids. Evidence from multiple studies indicates that fish oil supplements lower triglycerides, reduce the risk of heart attack and strokes, slow the build-up of hardening in the arteries and lower blood pressure. Blond psyllium is another supplement that reduces cholesterol levels in persons with mild to moderate high cholesterol. Studies show that when taken daily in conjunction with a low-fat diet, total cholesterol can be reduced by 3 to 14 percent and LDL cholesterol reduced by 5 to 10 percent. Blond psyllium appears to be most effective when taken at mealtime, particularly breakfast. According to a study conducted at Pennsylvania State University, aged garlic extract also helps inhibit the livers ability to produce cholesterol. Such a significant finding demonstrated that garlic extract works in the same manner as cholesterol lowering statins. However, the side effects are eliminated, and garlic extract is known as a natural supplement. Other studies reveal that garlic extract may also reduce bad cholesterol levels while raising good levels. Taking care of your heart is one of the best things you can do for yourself, and with the correct knowledge and effort, you can do the job without the statins.

Sources:

http://www.healthy-heart-guide.com/side-effects-of-lipitor.html

http://www.emaxhealth.com/107/3068.html

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/cholesterol-lowering-supplements/CL00013

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