Cookies and cholesterol: 5 key nutrients for heart health if you take statins
In today’s column, we’re delving into a groundbreaking study that offers a surprising perspective on cholesterol and heart health, involving none other than Oreos. This research questions our traditional views on cholesterol, highlighting its crucial role in our bodies.
Cardiovascular diseases remain the leading cause of mortality in the United States. Despite advancements in medication and interventions, the question remains: Why do so many still succumb to these diseases?
In an eye-opening experiment, Nick Norwitz — while following a ketogenic diet — introduced 12 Oreos daily
DEAR PHARMACIST
for 16 days, assessing their impact on his LDL cholesterol levels in comparison to statin drugs. Remarkably, his LDL-C levels dropped by 71% with Oreos, outperforming the 32.5% reduction he later achieved with the statin drug rosuvastatin.
Cholesterol is often misunderstood as a health villain, but it is vital for neurotransmitter function, hormone synthesis, and overall well-being. Insufficient cholesterol can lead to hormonal imbalances, mental health issues, and weakened immunity.
Statins, commonly prescribed for cholesterol management, are not without drawbacks. They can deplete essential nutrients like coenzyme Q10, impacting muscle health and energy, and interfering with vitamin D synthesis.
I’ve long advocated for awareness of these nutrient depletions, a stance that was once controversial but is now widely recognized. There’s more about drug-nutrient depletions in my book “Drug Muggers,” which is sold at bookstores nationwide and on Amazon.
Anyway, the obsession with cholesterol as it pertains to heart health may be excessive, at least in my humble opinion. Studies indicate that factors like lipoprotein (a) and homocysteine are significant in developing coronary heart disease. Elevated levels of these elements have been linked to coronary artery stenosis, independent of LDL cholesterol levels.
For those on statins, supplementing with these five nutrients can help offset the drug-nutrient depletion: coenzyme Q10, vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, and magnesium are crucial to counteract nutrient depletion. Selenium is also important to take if you’re on a statin, because it may prevent thyroid deficiencies.
Managing cholesterol naturally goes beyond the unconventional Oreo experiment — but eating one is fine by me! Who am I to judge? Just be sure to maintain a pretty clean and balanced diet with healthy fats, fiber-rich foods, regular exercise, and normal portions. Your stomach is only so big, about the size of your fist.
This may shock you but it’s those carbohydrates you eat (not the fat) that raise your cholesterol! Going off bread and pasta is better than restricting butter and sausage.
Cholesterol management deserves a nuanced approach rather than a targeted drug aimed at it. And there are worse things than cholesterol — for example, something called “remnant” cholesterol.
Exploring alternatives to statin therapy can lead to more effective heart health strategies and a reduction in heart attacks. I am confident of that.
This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Discuss any medication changes, including timing, with your physician. For a longer version of this article, visit www. suzycohen.com.