Q. I have had a difficult time controlling my blood lipids, but I really don’t want to take the medication my doctor has said I need. He says Crestor will bring my cholesterol down quite easily, but in the past I have had trouble with horrible muscle pain when I was taking simvastatin.
My triglycerides are also elevated. Are there any dietary approaches that will help? I eat a healthy diet, but I do love candy.
A. Cutting back on candy, sugar and sweets might do wonders for your triglycerides. This could also be beneficial for your blood cholesterol. We heard from one web visitor who tried this:
“I did not eat sweets and I limited carbs for 2 1/2 months. I just received the results of my blood test. My LDL’s went from 126 to 66 and my total cholesterol went from 189 to 133. I did exercise a little more than usual, but not enough to have that effect. It’s unbelievable. My cardiologist is quite amazed.”
There are many other simple ways to get cholesterol under control outlined in our book, Best Choices from The Peoples Pharmacy. Focusing on fish, beans and other high-fiber vegetables and staying away from refined carbohydrates can make a big difference. For the executive summary, check out our Guide to Cholesterol Control and Heart Health.
