Q. Do you know of any remedy other than drugs for helping control cholesterol? I have high cholesterol and high triglycerides. In my last lab report I had a total cholesterol of 165. My LDL was 93, HDL 36 and triglycerides were 276.
I have been on Lipitor, Zocor and Pravachol. I cannot tolerate any of them because I develop muscle aches and weakness.
A. Your cholesterol is actually surprisingly good. Your triglycerides, however, should be reduced and your HDL cholesterol should be raised.
One way to accomplish this is to cut back on refined carbohydrates. That means less bread, pasta, cereal, rise and sugar.
Fish oil can help lower triglycerides. Niacin can also be helpful for lowering triglycerides and cholesterol and raising good HDL cholesterol. Your doctor should monitor your progress.
If such approaches are not adequate, your doctor could prescribe a non-statin medication. There are several to choose from. We are sending you our Guide to Cholesterol and Heart Health for more details about fish oil, niacin and other medications.
