Q: You ran a column a while ago regarding self-treatment of high cholesterol but I am unable to find it in your archives. Can you repeat the information again?
A: I am unsure which column you refer to, so will cover the topic again and hopefully hit the highlights of what you previously read. Cholesterol is a waxy substance found in blood fats. The body definitely needs cholesterol in order to be able to build healthy cells, but too much of the substance can increase a person’s risk for developing heart disease. High cholesterol levels can be an inherited disorder but they can also be the result of poor lifestyle choices, a lack of exercise and poor dietary choices.
Obesity is known to put an individual at a greater risk for developing hypercholesterolemia; smoking can damage blood vessel walls and modestly lower HDL levels; a sedentary lifestyle and lack of exercise can be contributory; hypertension increases the pressure placed on arterial walls and damage arteries; and diet – an extremely important consideration also is contributory. While some habits may be difficult to break, a plan of moderate exercise under the direction of your primary care physician, discontinuing the smoking habit if appropriate, taking steps to lower blood pressure readings through exercise and perhaps medication, and dietary modifications may go a long way toward lowering levels. This doesn’t necessarily imply an individual must give up favorite foods, but rather means he or she should avoid or make a substantial reduction with organ meats, processed cold cuts, sausage, and a host of other products high in fats. Broil rather than fry meats whenever possible. Include fish high in omega-3 oils and chicken whenever possible. Drink skim milk. Avoid commercial cookies and other bakery products that contain tropical oils. Replace your cooking oil with olive oil.
On the home front, some individuals have been able to lower their levels by adding one teaspoon of cinnamon to their diet daily either on toast, sprinkled on cold cereal, or added to baked goods. Flaxseed is another possible choice. It, too, can be sprinkled on that morning cereal. Niacin (vitamin B3) is an over-the-counter supplement. Begin with 250 mg daily that can be increased after a week or so. It should be taken with food to avoid stomach upset. Niacin can cause flushing so it may be necessary to take an antihistamine such as Benadryl or an aspirin about 15 minutes beforehand. You might begin with an 81 mg tablet and if that fails to handle the flushing, step up to a 325 mg aspirin. There are several plant-based over-the-counter remedies that one might also consider. Obviously the effectiveness of any drug will vary from person to person. Some may work, while others won’t but you will never know until you give them a try.
I recommend you consider the big picture, determine your weaknesses that may include a big dish of ice cream before going to bed for the evening, snacking on potato chips, or avoiding exercise whenever possible. Make appropriate changes. Exercise, substitute fruits, vegetables and whole grains for foods high in cholesterol, saturated fats and trans fats. Keep a container of carrot sticks, broccoli spears, red pepper slices and other available produce in your refrigerator to help you avoid making a bad choice decision. Become a conscientious shopper. Read labels. Then, hopefully, watch your numbers drop. If they don’t, visit your physician for intervention that may include prescription statin drugs or other products.
Readers who would like related information can order Dr. Gott’s Health Report “Understanding Cholesterol” by sending a self-addressed, stamped number 10 envelope and a $2US check or money order to Peter H. Gott, MD Health Reports, PO Box 433, Lakeville, CT 06039. Be sure to mention the title or print an order form from www.AskDrGottMD.com.
