Sunday, March 08, 2009 RJ asks

Q: Should I take a statin when I have an overall Cholestrol level of 254, Hdl 72 and Ldl 125?

I have high blood pressure, but it is controlled by medicine. I do not want to take another drug. I just turned 50 and I do have a family history of heart disease. I don't smoke or drink and eat a healthy diet. I exercise everyday of the week (e.g. tennis, lift weights, and walk). I had a VAP test and I have fluffy LDL. I have elevated tryglycerides. My doctor wants me to take Crestor. Do I need to? Is it safe to take Crestor? If I do need to take Crestor and I experience side effects, are they permanent?

Thank you.

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Answers (1)

Lisa Nelson, RD, LN, Health Pro

3/ 9/09 8:44pm

Hi RJ,

This is really a joint decision between yourself and your MD, but I'll give you a little input. If you are not able to reduce your unhealthy LDL cholesterol and lower triglycerides via diet, exercise, and lifestyle changes; then yes, medications may be your best option to promote heart health.

I recommend you go back to assess your diet for trans fats and saturated fats to see if there are additional adjustments you can make. Also, check out the two posts below for ways to lower triglycerides and LDL cholesterol.

Triglycerides: Why They Matter and How to Lower Them
Dietary Fiber: 4 Tips to Lower Cholesterol with Fiber

Your activity level is great, keep it up!

All the best,

Lisa Nelson RD
How to Lower Cholesterol Naturally

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Q: Should I take a statin when I have an overall Cholestrol level of 254, Hdl 72 and Ldl 125?

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