Heart disease, which is the leading cause of death worldwide, is the result of the narrowing of blood vessels ,reducing the amount of oxygen reaching the heart. There are many factors involved in heart disease development; sitting at the top of your list might be high cholesterol. Are you one of millions worldwide currently taking cholesterol-lowering medication (statins) as prescribed by your doctor? Do you really know their role and the impact these medications have on your health?

Cholesterol a risky business

There is now much debate about cholesterol and its impact on heart disease, which is why it’s important you do sound research if you are on, or thinking about taking statin medication. Statins are one of the most frequently prescribed drugs on the market and a number one profit-maker for the pharmaceutical industry.

Confusion about cholesterol and heart health

Extensive review of many years of cholesterol research appears to show no actual link between high cholesterol and heart disease! In fact, a high sugar diet causes greater concern.

A better way to check for your risk of heart disease

• Your ratio of HDL: Total Cholesterol
• Your ratio of Triglycerides: HDL

The most important supplement for heart health

Amongst the side effects of statin medication is it's action on Coenzyme Q10

• Statins stop your body from making Coenzyme Q10, an antioxidant you need for energy production
• CoQ10 likes the heart. It helps many age-related health conditions because your body’s production of CoQ10 lowers with age. Many people feel results immediately with supplementation.

'Ask at Naturopath' at Mr Vitamins for more information on the benefits of CoQ10.

Will your doctor be okay with supplements for heart health?

Many doctors are now recommending CoQ10 supplementation alongside statins. It’s important you don’t alter or stop taking your cholesterol-lowering medication without your doctor’s advice. Fish oil benefits your cardiovascular system as well; most doctors are aware of the research. Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil reduce the risk of heart disease, may improve cholesterol and triglyceride levels, and assist normal blood pressure.

Foods to include for heart health

• Oatmeal - high in fibre helps keep your bowel movements regular, and supports healthy cholesterol levels. Use in place of breadcrumbs in meatballs, meatloaf and breading.
• Spinach - full of vitamins and minerals that help fight heart disease.
• Beans - for their fibre content and heart-protective plant chemicals.
• Oily fish - sardines, mackerel, halibut, salmon, gemfish, herring, etc- a natural source of CoQ10; oily fish can also help prevent blood clotting.
• Raw nuts - reduce your incidence of heart disease due to their monounsaturated fat content. Healthiest nuts: walnuts, Brazil nuts, pecans, almonds, macadamias and pine nuts.

See also our Lifestyle Tips to Reduce Heart Strain