The lab reference ranges for "normal" cholesterol levels have gradually declined over the past couple of decades. Interestingly, this coincided with the introduction of cholesterol-lowering medications (statins)!

Many people are frightened by their readings, but may not be aware that it is important to know the breakdown of the results, not just total cholesterol levels. Also, even with a slight to moderately elevated reading, it is vital that this be understood in context.

We see many patients with elevated readings who are of normal weight, do not smoke, hardly drink, have normal blood pressure, and who exercise regularly. That is, they do not have any of the recognised risk factors for heart disease, except for elevated cholesterol. It is important to discuss these issues with your GP, or cardiologist, as the side effects of statin medications can be worrying (e.g. muscle aches and pains, liver problems, headaches, digestive problems, and insomnia).

There are of course, natural alternatives to statins, for people who have very high cholesterol, and/or have a strong family history of cardiovascular disease. PHYTOSTEROLS are plant steroid alcohols which act to inhibit cholesterol absorption in the gastrointestinal tract. A recently published meta-analysis of 41 well controlled published studies has shown that a dose of 2g daily can result in a reduction of LDL cholesterol (the "bad" one), of up to 10%.

Our Naturopaths can help you reduce your cholesterol levels naturally, focusing on reducing LDL (the "bad" one) and increasing HDL (the "good" one). By addressing any other risk factors such as weight, and high blood pressure, we can ensure you have a healthy cardiovascular system.

Further testing eg homocysteine levels, liver function, fasting blood glucose and insulin may be indicated (speak with your Naturopath or GP).