Statin drugs are used to lower cholesterol. Other uses have been recently explored, including treatment of chronic obstructive lung disease (COPD). If you are wondering about alternatives to statin drugs, you should discuss this with your physician. Patients taking statin drugs may become intolerant to medications or develop side effects, making other options important. Frequent monitoring of outcomes is important. The risks and benefits for treating risk factors for disease or existing ailments is an important consideration when considering statin drug alternatives.
Try Red Yeast Rice
The newest statin drug alternative researched is red yeast rice. Muscle pain experienced by patients who take statin drugs make safe and effective alternatives important. Red rice yeast can have the same side effects as typical cholesterol-lowering drugs. Some patients who seek lower cholesterol without the muscle pain experienced with prescription cholesterol-lowering medications might better tolerate red yeast rice. It is important to have regular blood tests to check for liver inflammation and response. Red yeast rice is available without a prescription.
Eat a Heart Healthy Diet and Include Raw Garlic
Another alternative to the use of statin drugs includes eating a heart-healthy diet. Add raw garlic daily. Include five fruits and vegetables daily, cut back on red meat and avoid products made with white flour. Avoid corn oil and sweets, and reduce your alcohol intake to lower triglycerides especially. Eat high-fiber foods. Hydrogen sulfide, responsible for the health effects of garlic, becomes diminished with processing and cooking; making it important to chew on freshly cut or crushed garlic for maximum effect.
Plant Sterols May Lower Cholesterol
Plant sterols (stanols) may help lower cholesterol levels and may be an addition or alternative to statin drugs. They are found in nuts, legumes, seeds, fruits, vegetables, cereal and vegetables oils in small quantities. Several vitamin and supplement products contain plant sterols that can provide an alternative to statin drugs.
