Atorvastatin calcium, the generic name for Lipitor, is a medicine your doctor may prescribe to improve your total cholesterol level. It should lower your bad cholesterol and increase your good cholesterol when combined with a low-fat diet. However, Lipitor is not without side effects. Probiotics, on the other hand, are active bacteria cultures that work with your digestive system to improve your intestinal flora and the absorption of medications as well as micronutrients.
Background
Cholesterol is a fatty substance that provides three essential functions within your body. It makes up part of the cell membrane, particularly within the cells found in the myelin sheath, a covering that protects your nerves. Cholesterol is also a precursor of bile acids, which are needed for digestion and anti-stress, fluid-balance and metabolic hormones. Production of these hormones also requires adequate amounts of vitamin C and pantothenic acid.
Good and Bad Cholesterol
Cholesterol is also found in your blood and organs. High-density lipoprotein, or HDL, is considered your "good" cholesterol, while low-density lipoprotein is considered the "bad" cholesterol. While your body needs the good cholesterol, bad cholesterol can cause serious health problems. LDL can build up in your arteries, making it difficult for blood, and the oxygen it carries, to circulate to your lungs, heart and organs. This cholesterol can build up to the point where it causes arteriosclerosis and cardiovascular disease.
Lipitor
Lipitor, along with a healthy, low-fat diet, will reduce your bad-cholesterol level, which can lower your risk of a heart attack or stroke. While most people consider cholesterol to be a set of numbers that are indicative of health, it is really an indication of your risk factor. Common side effects of Lipitor include diarrhea, upset stomach and pain in your muscles and or joints. Less common side effects of Lipitor include muscle and joint weakness, kidney problems and failure, liver problems, an allergic reaction to the medication, nausea, vomiting and stomach pain, and dark-stained urine.
How to Combine Lipitor and Probiotics
Take Lipitor as prescribed by your physician, who should also be monitoring your diet. Eat heart-healthy, low-fat, high-fiber foods that are also low in sodium and high in potassium, and that offer ample essential vitamins and minerals. Taking Lipitor first thing in the morning with a cup of low-fat yogurt will help your body to better absorb this medication as well as keep your intestinal flora at a healthy level. If you are lactose intolerant, probiotic supplements that are free of lactose can replace your daily cup of yogurt.
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