Recently there has been increased attention to the use of high dose of statins to prevent heart attack. These studies even made it to NPR in November. Though there is no question about the long term benefits of cardiovascular health, my question is “are statin drugs the way?”
Cholesterol is an important substance in our body, and insufficient amounts of cholesterol can cause serious problem as well. Cholesterol is an important component of each cell in our body. Neurological activity, hormonal functions and brain chemistry all rely on adequate amounts of cholesterol. Inadequate amounts of cholesterol can cause allergies, disrupt blood sugar regulation, lead to inflammation, and poor healing of injuries.
Statins are widely prescribed medicines. However, their potential serious side effects are not often discussed. Within pharmacology, it is well know that statins can cause problems for the liver. That is why patients taking these drugs get regular liver panels. In addition, statins deplete the body of vital nutrients such as CO-Q10. Other potential side effects of long term statin use are renal failure and pancreatitis.
My thinking is that it is not just about lowering cholesterol levels. We should seek balanced and overall cardiovascular health, as well as optimum levels of physiological substances, including cholesterol. At Carrboro Acupuncture Clinic, we have several safe and effective natural therapies to lower cholesterol, benefit the cardio-vascular system, and make you more healthy. To find out about these therapies, just contact us.
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