LDL HDL Ratio

Posts Tagged ‘Cholesterol’

A comparative analysis with other inflammation tests:

C-Reaction protein or CRP is a protein found in blood whose concentration increases with an onset of immune response when various bacterial and viral infections kick in. This increase is not only limited to any specific defect caused by a foreign particle or micro-organism & can also increases in response to various diseases caused due to other factors such as age, genetic makeup, mutations, lifestyle, etc. The list of diseases in which CRP has a direct or indirect role is big. The concentration of CRP varies in response to the various stages of these pathological conditions.

Apart from CRP, there are other markers of inflammation which are triggered in response to various abnormal developments in the body. These markers are quite useful in profiling inflammatory responses of our body & thus, various tests have been designed for this purpose:

• Silent Inflammation Profile – This test measures the ratio of Arachidonic Acid (AA) to Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA) in your blood. The Arachidonic acid promotes inflammation while EPA fights it. It’s a rather more precise marker than CRP but unfortunately, testing it is little more complicated.

• Fasting insulin levels - These blood tests are given to screen for inflammatory responses to diabetes & heart diseases. Higher insulin levels results in elevated inflammatory responses by the body. This test has narrower diagnostic ability than CRP Test & is limited to heart diseases.

• LDL-Cholesterol profiling - Cholesterol associated arteriosclerosis & cardiovascular complications are the most important factors which effect the concentration of CRP in blood. Atherosclerosis associated vascular & cardio-muscular dystrophy leads to a dramatic rise in CRP levels & has profound effects on the concentrations of CRP. Therefore, LDL-Cholesterol profiling acts as a rough indicator of blood CRP levels.

• ESR profiling - The Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate is used as a measure of inflammation & it, along with C-reactive proteins, acts as a marker of body’s inflammatory responses. Generally, ESR levels do not change as rapidly with onset & descent of inflammation as levels of CRP. Moreover, ESR is also affected my many factors, other than inflammation, while CRP is not much affected by any other factor, making it a much better marker for inflammation diagnosis. CRP is thus better than ESR for monitoring rapid changes in inflammation pattern as it does not depend on fibrinogen or immunoglobulin levels, & is not affected by RBC count & shape.

• Miscellaneous: To predict risk of heart strokes, tests for cytokine activity, cellular adhesion, interleukin-6, soluble CD60 and intracellular adhesion molecule-1 are also good markers but these tests are either too difficult to perform regularly or may prove too costly for your economical health!

So, CRP tests when combined with results of other diagnostic measures may provide a valuable insight into your body’s current state of health!

Green Tea has had more zealous acceptance than nearly any other food product in the past twenty years. There are claims that substances contained in green tea inhibit cancer cells, improve cholesterol, reduce the appetite and strengthen the immune system. Not since the Vitamin C rage has another food product been treated as a must have. The following summarizes the more important claims; some backed by research, some not.

Research at the University of Purdue, concluded that a compound in green tea inhibits the growth of cancer cells. A report published in a 1994 Journal of the National Cancer Institute indicated that drinking green tea lowered the risk of esophageal cancer.

There are also studies that have concluded green tea lowers overall cholesterol levels and improves the ratio of good (HDL) cholesterol to bad (LDL) cholesterol. Still other studies indicate that green tea is also reputed to be helpful with Cardiovascular disease, infection, impaired immune function, Rheumatoid arthritis.

Green Tea is rich in antioxidants, particularly catechin polyphenols. This powerful antioxidant has been shown by researchers at the University of Kansas to be twice as powerful as resveratrol, the compound that gives red wine its amazing heart protecting effects. To further support the claim, Japanese men have a low heart attack rate despite the fact that more than 70% smoke cigarettes.

The results of a study published by American Journal of Clinical Nutrition showed a green tea extract, when taken with caffeine can lead to an increased rate of calorie burning. Green Tea has bacteria fighting abilities that can helps in prevention of tooth decay and food poisoning.

There does not seem be a real consensus on how much green tea should be consumed. Some recommend as many as 10 (six to eight ounce) cups per day, while others suggest at least three cups.

There are few negatives effects caused by drinking green tea other than those caused by the caffeine that is present. A cup of green tea contains about 60% of the caffeine found in a cup of coffee. For those people who are sensitive to caffeine, green tea may cause insomnia or nervous irritability.

If you are unable to drink green tea during the day, a green tea extract will provide similar benefits. These can be found in most supermarkets.

Clearly, the research suggests there are significant health benefits to adding green tea as a component of your daily diet. If your fighting to lose weight and gain better health, a warm cup of green tea will hit the spot.

Do not use green tea without first talking to your doctor if you have heart problems or high blood pressure, kidney disease, an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism), an anxiety or nervous disorder, or a bleeding or blood clotting disorder or if you take a blood thinner such as warfarin (Coumadin).

High cholesterol is a common affliction for those in Western societies. It is estimated that 101 million Americans suffer from high cholesterol which is defined as blood cholesterol greater then 200mg per deciliter. Americans are not the only ones with cholesterol problems, an Australian study found that 51.5% of male Australians have high blood cholesterol.
While some cholesterol is good, it is when the levels get too high that we run into problems. Cholesterol is necessary for hormone production, and is a major component in cell walls. Cholesterol also aids in the production of bile and aids in the metabolism of the fat soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K.
High cholesterol is one of the five leading risk factors leading to coronary heart disease. If your cholesterol levels need to drop a bit and you want to work on your good to bad ratio, drugs are not the only option.
As far as diet goes, adding soluble fiber is a good move as it binds to blood serum cholesterol and helps it leave the body. Good dietary sources of soluble fiber can be found in ground flax seeds, oat meal and oat bran, apples and a variety of other foods.
Niacin, known as Vitamin B3, is a water soluble vitamin that has also been proven to be helpful in lowering cholesterol levels and improving cholesterol ratios. The main function of niacin is to metabolize fats.
Niacin has been shown to reduce LDL, or bad cholesterol levels by 10-20%, reduce triglycerides by 20-50%, and raise HDL, or good cholesterol by 15-30%.
When choosing a Niacin product, be sure to start with 100mg dose and gradually ease your way up to avoid the flushing and tingling of skin that can happen with higher doses. This flushing is a result of niacin’s effects on widening blood vessels which usually last beginning at 15 minutes after taking the pill to about an hour after. If you do suffer from the flushing sensation, taking your niacin with food can decrease your risk of these negative symptoms. Also, do not purchase niacinamide as it does not help in lowering cholesterol. It is common to work up to 1.5 to 3 grams per day for therapeutic doses.
Another great benefit of niacin for anyone who has suffered a heart attack or stroke is that the use of niacin has been shown to reduce the risk of having a second heart attack or stroke.
People who take niacin to lower cholesterol typically get their cholesterol levels checked every 6 to 12 months as niacin works gradually over time. Having your blood tested more often then that is not necessary as the cholesterol changes can be slow.
I do want to note that if you have been taking statin drugs or Red Yeast Rice, it is very important to add both Niacin and CoQ10 as statins and Red Yeast Rice both deplete your body of these nutrients. Be sure to consult your physician on this issue too.
It is important to work with your doctor on this to avoid any complications like high blood sugar or liver problems. High doses of niacin can also increase the effectiveness of medication for high blood pressure.

 

More and more studies are coming out showing just how unhealthy lowering cholesterol might be, particularly by the use of statin drugs. In particular, statin drugs have been shown to be harmful to muscles causing considerable damage. A common symptom of this damage is muscular aches and pains that many patients experience on cholesterol-lowering drugs, however most do not realize that these drugs are to blame. One reason that statin drugs have these various serious side effects is that they work by inhibiting a vital enzyme that manufactures cholesterol in the liver.

« Cholesterol and heart disease has been almost synonymous for the last half-century. Cholesterol has been portrayed as the Darth Vader to our arteries and our heart.

The latest recommendation given by a so-called panel of “experts” recommends that a person’s cholesterol be as low as possible, in fact to a level so low they say it cannot be achieved by diet, exercise, or any known lifestyle modification. Therefore, they say cholesterol-lowering drugs; particularly the so-called “statins” need to be given to anyone at high risk of heart disease. Since heart disease is the number one killer in this country that would include most adults and even many children. The fact that this might add to the $26 billion in sales of statin drugs last year I’m sure played no role in their recommendations. » Ron Rosedale, MD

Cholesterol is not a deadly poison, but a substance vital to the cells of all mammals. Cholesterol is a sterol (a combination steroid and alcohol) and a lipid found in the cell membranes of all body tissues, and transported in the blood plasma of all animals. Cholesterol is required to build and maintain cell membranes; it regulates membrane fluidity over a wide range of temperatures. Cholesterol is present in higher concentrations in tissues which either produce more or have more densely-packed membranes, for example, the liver, spinal cord and brain, and also in atheromata.

Many studies have found that low cholesterol is in certain respects worse than high cholesterol. High cholesterol is defined differently for people of different ages. Researchers at the University San Diego School of Medicine UCSD point out that highcholesterol in those over 75 years of age is protective, rather than harmful and that low cholesterol is a risk factor for heart arrhythmias (leadingcause of death if heart attack occurs). However, because the level of HDL cholesterol is so important, many doctors look at the ratio of the total cholesterol level to HDL cholesterol level to assess the risk of heart disease. With anticholesterol drugs now being sold without prescription at the pharmacy, the decision about how far to control cholesterol is being pushed into the consumer’s hands.

Before we can begin to talk about the real cause and effective treatment for heart and blood vessel disease, we must first look at what is known, or I should say what we think we know. A combined analysis showed that treatment with omega-3 fatty acids (fish and flaxseed oils) reduced overall risk of death by 23 per cent as compared to placebo. When apple pectin was added to the treatment triacylglycerol and VLDL cholesterol levels were both lowered by 38 per cent, but in addition total cholesterol levels decreased by 13 per cent and LDL cholesterol by 7 per cent. The researchers conclude that a combination of fish oil supplementation and increased fiber intake (up to 40 grams/day total) may be a beneficial addition to the conventional treatment of high cholesterol levels in NIDDM patients.

Common sense would indicate that we should avoid the oxidation (rancidity) of cholesterol and fatty acids and not get rid of important life-giving molecules. However, many good fats are easily oxidized such as omega-3 fatty acids, but it does not mean that you should avoid it at all costs. The trials of n-3 fatty acids used different dietary and supplement sources; nevertheless, the authors conclude that this study adds to the positive evidence for n-3 fatty acids. Regarding n-3 fatty acids, they speculate that the reduction in mortality risk does not occur through a reduction in cholesterol but by other means, possibly antiarrhythmic, antithrombotic or anti-inflammatory effects. These results support recommendations that people eat more fish, the authors write, particularly oily fish with their high levels of omega-3 fatty acids. This is your body we are talking about. Most people spend hundreds of dollars every month on new shoes, clothes, food, etc. How much do you spend on keeping yourself healthy ?

It is a fact that fish oil supplements containing omega 3 fatty acids have been promoted in the media as being effective at lowering cholesterol levels. Although it is true that to a certain extent fish oil and cholesterol are correlated, there is no conclusive evidence that there is a direct relationship between them.

Instead of worrying about your cholesterol readings being too high, you are better off focusing on the risk of heart disease that you are exposed to. And fish oil supplements can definitely reduce that risk.

Let me explain what I mean.

As you probably know, there are two types of cholesterol, performing two opposing functions: One is LDL and is the bad one being responsible for the accumulation of plaque on your arteries and the other one is HDL, which does exactly the opposite: removes the plaque from the arteries.

Now, the risk level of you developing heart related problems at any point in your life is directly proportional to the ratio of bad to good cholesterol. The higher the ratio, the higher the risk. Therefore, estimating your heart disease risk by just the number of LDL (the bad cholesterol) alone, it surely is bad practice.

Apart from cholesterol, your triglycerides levels also play a significant role when it comes to estimating heart disease risk. In case you don’t know, triglycerides are fatty substance that circulate in the bloodstream. Too much of it might clog your arteries.

To make it even more complicated, there is an additional risk factor, which has recently been identified by scientists. This is associated with the so called C-reactive protein and is a measure of inflammation in your blood. Mind you, this protein has nothing to do with cholesterol.

To sum up, the risk of heart disease is more complex to estimate than merely basing your judgment on cholesterol numbers alone. It’s a combination of factors, which interact with each other.

Now, having formulated a more complete picture of the causes of heart disease, you can better appreciate the wonderful properties of fish oil (the omega 3 fatty acids contained in it to be exact) and how they can contribute to the reduction of the relevant health risk.

First, fish oil is a powerful anti-inflammatory, so it can help reduce the risk from the C-reactive protein.

Second, the omega 3 fatty acids help prevent clumping and stickiness of the blood. Thus, blood can flow more easily in the arteries reducing the probability of heart attacks or strokes.

Another important property of fish oil is that it helps prevent plaque build-up inside the arteries. Again, this is important, considering that what actually causes heart attacks, strokes and heart disease in general is this formation of plaques.

In conclusion, you should bear in mind that the omega 3 fatty acids contained in fish oil are excellent not only for you heart, but for your overall health in general.

But remember, not all fish oils are created equal. You have to be selective at what you use. Personally, I use the fish oil produced by a company in New Zealand, called Xtend Life. Their product far outperforms their competition.

To become better informed and see why I recommend this particular fish oil, visit my website.

An introductory approach to cholesterol associated diseases & their testing:

Cholesterol is one of the lipids used extensively by our body for diverse array of functions. Cholesterol, along with some other lipids, forms important cellular structural components, makes steroidal hormones, & produces energy when decomposed. Cholesterol, at some levels, is produced by the body (without ever letting you know!) while it also finds its way in your body when you feast on that yummy creamy cake!

Cholesterol is broadly categorized, on the basis of its density, into following classes:

• High Density Lipoproteins

• Low Density Lipoproteins

• Intermediate Density Lipoproteins

• Very Low Density Lipoproteins

• Chylomicrons

The levels of these cholesterol types reflect the state of health of your body. The blood cholesterol levels define degree and asperity of a cascade of diseases, like:

• Atherosclerosis & atherosclerosis associated cardiovascular disorders: Atherosclerosis is a stage of arteriosclerosis involving fatty deposits inside the arterial walls. This deposition of fatty acids is a long term process which, in due course of time, leads to narrowing of arteries and to be hardened. It results in the diminution of arterial elasticity leading to reduction in the blood volume passed through them thus, leafing out various symptoms associated with cardiovascular diseases.

• Vascular dementia & Alzheimer’s disease: Vascular dementia (or mental deterioration, in layman terms!) is caused when blood vessels deprive the brain of oxygen, as a result of which brain cells die. Some studies report high cholesterol levels to increase the risk of cognitive impairment.

A famous neurological disorder, Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive form of pre-senile dementia that results in impaired memory which is followed by impaired thought and speech and finally complete helplessness. It has been reported that much of the damage of Alzheimer’s is due to the deposition of a sticky protein, called beta-amyloid in the vital areas of the brain and unfortunately, higher levels of cholesterol are believed to accelerate the formation of beta-amyloid plaques!

• Miscellaneous effects like peripheral vascular disease (numbness in limbs due to high cholesterol levels in blood vessels, blocking the flow of blood), cancer (due to suppression of a tumor suppression gene by TGF) & pregnancy colligated complications (due to dramatic rise in cholesterol count during pregnancy) have been reported quite frequently.

All these monstrous diseases certainly require us to stay informed about our cholesterol levels & overall lipid profiles. Usually, cardiovascular disease risk index (blood HDL & LDL ratio) is obtained by monitoring pulse rates, blood pressure, ECG, checking kidney functions, listening to heart beats and large arteries. However, a general quick idea of cholesterol levels can be obtained by various easy-to-use handy equipments available in the market which can used individually to test cholesterol levels without any laboratory expertise.

These testing machines are able to measure Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, High-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, triglycerides & total cholesterol with a reasonable accuracy.

The ideal cholesterol level in the blood is less than 5mmol/l. While the cholesterol levels between 6.5 to 7.8mmol/l are termed as moderate, anything above 7.8mmol/l is termed as Very High Cholesterol & surely you wouldn’t want your meter read anywhere near to it! So, stay informed and eat healthy!

High blood cholesterol has been shown to be a leading cause of cardiovascular disease, coronary heart disease and stroke. However cholesterol itself is essential to several important processes within the body, including cell membrane structure and function, making of hormones and the digestion and movement of fats to all parts of the body.
So why does an essential compound result in such big problems?
The answer lies in a more detailed understanding of cholesterol, how it can result in high blood cholesterol and the reasons high blood cholesterol results in blood vessel damage.
Interestingly, the body can make all the cholesterol it needs although typically it makes around 2/3rd and the remaining 1/3rd comes from your diet. Further, not all of your diet sourced cholesterol is absorbed and absorption rates vary widely. A range between 20% and 80% is possible with an average of around 60%. Absorption appears to be regulated so that cholesterol levels remain at a constant level within your body.
It is widely thought that high blood cholesterol is the main risk factor for coronary atherosclerosis. Evidence from several major studies suggests that high blood cholesterol causes coronary heart disease (CHD). It’s estimated that it accounts for around half of the increased risk of CHD in a middle aged man with total blood cholesterol of 6.2 mmol.L-1. As your blood cholesterol increases and your HDL-C (good cholesterol) decreases, so your risk of CHD increases.
This is supported by large studies. The MRFIT study followed 360,000 men for six years. It showed that the risk began at levels as low as 4.65 mmol.L-1 and the risk was large. The risk of CHD for the highest 10% is four times that of the lowest 10%.
It is now thought that LDL-C (low density lipoprotein cholesterol) is the most damaging and rather than total cholesterol the better predictor of CHD is the total blood cholesterol to HDL-C (high density lipoprotein cholesterol) ratio.
Contrary to what may seem obvious the level of cholesterol in your diet doesn’t show a significant independent correlation to your risk of CHD. Although it had been shown to be the case in animal studies an analysis of the Framington Heart Study indicated that dietary cholesterol was not a predictor of total blood cholesterol or of LDL-C levels in women.
The problem food in your diet is saturated fatty acids (SFAs). The Seven Countries Studies of over 11,000 middle aged men in 7 countries indicated a strong independent correlation between eating SFAs and CHD.
It’s been found that SFAs in your diet raise total blood cholesterol approximately twice as much as polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) lowered it. Monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) were found to be neutral and dietary cholesterol, like that in egg yolks, has only a comparatively small effect. It is thought that the body adapts to a high cholesterol diet in several ways:
* Reduction of intestinal absorption
* An increase in conversion to bile acids
* Reduction in the amount made in the body
* Changes in LDL-C receptor activity
While the general effect is small some individual’s response is more extreme. Half of this variation is put down to genetic factors.
How Does High Blood Cholesterol Result in Blood Vessel Damage?
Cholesterol can build up on the walls of your arteries. This build up of cholesterol is called plaque and over time it can cause narrowing of the arteries. This is called atherosclerosis or hardening of the arteries. The arteries that bring oxygenated blood to supply the heart are called coronary arteries.
Narrowing of your coronary arteries due to plaque can slow down the flow of blood to your heart resulting in a decrease in the amount of oxygen-rich blood it receives. If the heart doesn’t receive enough oxygen then angina or chest pains can result. A complete blockage results in a heart attack and possible death.
Lowering your blood cholesterol level decreases your chance for having a heart attack and may also slow down, reduce, or even stop plaque from building up.
Saturated Fats You Should Reduce
* Animal fat especially fatty meat: salami, sausage meat, minced meats, trim the hard white fat from red meats and remove the skin from poultry.
* Full-fat diary products
Use vegetable oils in cooking instead of animal fat. Good examples include canola and olive oil.
The message is clear. If you want to be healthier then lower your saturated fat intake and exchange it for polyunsaturated fats and monounsaturated fats.

—————————————————

Guggul:

Guggul is the name given to the yellowish resin produced by the stem of the

mukul myrrh (Commiphora mukul) tree found throughout India. It has been used

in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries in the treatment of arthritis, obesity,

and one of its prime uses was for “medoroga”. Medoroga is basically an

ancient diagnosis for what we know as atherosclerosis. It was effective for

this problem because of its ability to lower serum cholesterol and

triglycerides.

Guggul extract isolates contain safe plant steroid compounds known as

guggulsterones, which have been shown to lower lipid levels in your

blood. They actually lower serum triglycerides and cholesterol, as well as

LDL VLDL cholesterols (the “bad” ones) and as a bonus..raises HDL cholesterol

(the “good” guys). Guggulsterones also act as antioxidants in that they keep

LDL cholesterol from oxidizing, protecting you further from

atherosclerosis. Guggul has also decreased the “stickiness” of platelets,

which of course also lowers the risk of coronary artery disease and stroke.Â

There was a study which actually found guggul extract similar and even

slightly better than clobfibrate for lowering cholesterol levels…..

Niacin:

For some time, some practitioners have been using high amounts of niacin

(Vitamin B3) (also called nicotinic acid) to lower cholesterol. The problem

with this is that at the doses needed, about 3 grams per day, divided dosing,

patients experience side effects of flushing, headache, stomach pains and

even chronic liver damage, diabetic responses, gastritis or stomach

inflammation, eye damage and even gout. The other common form of B3 -

niacinamide (also called nicotinamide) - does NOT help cholesterol levels.

An acceptable variation on niacin called inositol hexaniacinate has more

recently been prescribed by European doctors for cholesterol treatment

without the unwanted effects of niacin. It is used at the 500 to 1,000 mg

taken three times per day. It is newer and fewer studies have been done, so

if one takes it, make sure you have your cholesterol monitored to evaluate

its effectiveness and have liver enzymes, uric acid and glucose levels

checked just to be sure you are not one of the people prone to problems with

B3 therapy…..

[You may also try niacin in the form of "no flush" niacin hexaniacinate,

which most health shops sell - alone or in combination with small doses (less

than 150mg) of regular niacin (to minimise the uncomfortable flushing). It

is a good idea to take the niacin in combination with other members of the

vitamin B family - vit B complex, with at least 50mg of most Bs. MCS]

Other Factors:

Supplementing with Vitamin E (800 IU per day), Vitamin C (2-3 grams per day),

Octacosanol (from wheat germ..another good reason to use this food, as it is

also high in beta-sitosterol), Lecithin (2-3 grams per day), and garlic

supplements (600-900 mg per day) all have shown to be very helpful in

reducing cholesterol and triglycerides levels.

*** Here is some very brief information on other helpful supplements to

assist in managing different cardiovascular problems.

OTHER CHOLESTEROL LOWERING SUPPLEMENTS

Since lecithin is a very effective emulsifying agent, which also contains

choline and inositol, some authorities also suggest taking at least 1200mg of

lecithin capsules or granules 3 times daily. By the way, for those who take

skim or reduced fat milk, blending or shaking a teaspoon or two of lecithin

granules into the milk makes it taste much creamier and more palatable - add

according to your personal taste.

Chinese red yeast extract

Chromium picolinate

L-carnitine (2-4gm daily on an empty stomach)

L-arginine on empty stomach (avoid if suffering from herpes, shingles,

schizophrenia)

Bromelain and pectin enzymes (on an empty stomach)

Vitamin E (mixed tocopherols) 1000mg daily (begin with 200-400mg daily)

Vitamin C (plus bioflavonoids)

Oats (fibre) and other brans

Olive oil (raw, virgin, cold pressed, kept in refrigerator)

Fish oil

Green tea

Hawthorne berry (also for heart arrhythmias and hypertension)

Grapefruit (note that this can accentuate the effects of some cardiac drugs)

Boswellia

Aloe Vera

Alfalfa

Dandelion

Thyme

Turmeric

Other Supplements for Cardiac Use:

(e.g. for reducing inflammation of tissues, reducing blood pressure or

“thinning” the blood)

CoQ10 (75-150mg a day, with lecithin)

Magnesium (maleate, citrate, aspartate)

Willow bark, Aspirin (75mg a day with meals)

L-arginine on empty stomach (avoid if suffering from herpes, shingles,

schizophrenia)

Ginger

Fish oil

Capsaicin (from “hot” peppers)

MSM

Gotu kola

Ginkgo biloba

Bilberry

Primrose oil

Turmeric

AVOID

Refined carbohydrates

Highly sugared drinks (pop, sodas, etc)

Licorice (can increase blood pressure)

Hydrogenated or “partially hydrogenated” fats (in many cereals, margarines,

candies)

Transfatty acids (in many margarines, cakes, cookies etc)

Heated or fried fats and meats

Fatty meats

Lard and animal fat (many fast food chains use these fats in many products)

Coffee

Ephedra, ephedrine

Shark cartilage

NOTE

If you are considering the use of any of the above supplements, remember that

you should find out as much as you can by reading reputable web pages on each

of them, or consulting books such as:

Balch & Balch, “Prescription for Nutritional Healing”

The following metasearch engine should help you find detailed information on any

of the

above supplements:

http://www.metacrawler.com

If you suffer from any cardiac problems, it is essential that you seek

professional medical advice and ascertain if any supplements may interact

adversely with any medication which you may be taking. For example, if you

are on anticoagulants such as warfarin (Coumadin) or heparin, other

supplements such as fish oil, garlic, aspirin, vitamin E (large doses) and

several others can reduce the clotting ability of your blood even further.

If you are on a cholesterol-lowering medication such as one of then statins,

then many of the above supplements can increase the potency of these drugs,

so, in consultation with a suitable medical expert, you should adjust your

dosage accordingly or gradually wean yourself off such drugs, according to

your particular situation. If doing this, it is important that you regularly

have your cholesterol and HDL/LDL ratios checked and that you work under the

supervision of your doctor.

——

Guggul:

Guggul is the name given to the yellowish resin produced by the stem of the

mukul myrrh (Commiphora mukul) tree found throughout India. It has been used

in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries in the treatment of arthritis, obesity,

and one of its prime uses was for “medoroga”. Medoroga is basically an

ancient diagnosis for what we know as atherosclerosis. It was effective for

this problem because of its ability to lower serum cholesterol and

triglycerides.

Guggul extract isolates contain safe plant steroid compounds known as

guggulsterones, which have been shown to lower lipid levels in your

blood. They actually lower serum triglycerides and cholesterol, as well as

LDL VLDL cholesterols (the “bad” ones) and as a bonus..raises HDL cholesterol

(the “good” guys). Guggulsterones also act as antioxidants in that they keep

LDL cholesterol from oxidizing, protecting you further from

atherosclerosis. Guggul has also decreased the “stickiness” of platelets,

which of course also lowers the risk of coronary artery disease and stroke.Â

There was a study which actually found guggul extract similar and even

slightly better than clobfibrate for lowering cholesterol levels…..

Niacin:

For some time, some practitioners have been using high amounts of niacin

(Vitamin B3) (also called nicotinic acid) to lower cholesterol. The problem

with this is that at the doses needed, about 3 grams per day, divided dosing,

patients experience side effects of flushing, headache, stomach pains and

even chronic liver damage, diabetic responses, gastritis or stomach

inflammation, eye damage and even gout. The other common form of B3 -

niacinamide (also called nicotinamide) - does NOT help cholesterol levels.

An acceptable variation on niacin called inositol hexaniacinate has more

recently been prescribed by European doctors for cholesterol treatment

without the unwanted effects of niacin. It is used at the 500 to 1,000 mg

taken three times per day. It is newer and fewer studies have been done, so

if one takes it, make sure you have your cholesterol monitored to evaluate

its effectiveness and have liver enzymes, uric acid and glucose levels

checked just to be sure you are not one of the people prone to problems with

B3 therapy…..

[You may also try niacin in the form of "no flush" niacin hexaniacinate,

which most health shops sell - alone or in combination with small doses (less

than 150mg) of regular niacin (to minimise the uncomfortable flushing). It

is a good idea to take the niacin in combination with other members of the

vitamin B family - vit B complex, with at least 50mg of most Bs. MCS]

Other Factors:

Supplementing with Vitamin E (800 IU per day), Vitamin C (2-3 grams per day),

Octacosanol (from wheat germ..another good reason to use this food, as it is

also high in beta-sitosterol), Lecithin (2-3 grams per day), and garlic

supplements (600-900 mg per day) all have shown to be very helpful in

reducing cholesterol and triglycerides levels.

*** Here is some very brief information on other helpful supplements to

assist in managing different cardiovascular problems.

OTHER CHOLESTEROL LOWERING SUPPLEMENTS

Since lecithin is a very effective emulsifying agent, which also contains

choline and inositol, some authorities also suggest taking at least 1200mg of

lecithin capsules or granules 3 times daily. By the way, for those who take

skim or reduced fat milk, blending or shaking a teaspoon or two of lecithin

granules into the milk makes it taste much creamier and more palatable - add

according to your personal taste.

Chinese red yeast extract

Chromium picolinate

L-carnitine (2-4gm daily on an empty stomach)

L-arginine on empty stomach (avoid if suffering from herpes, shingles,

schizophrenia)

Bromelain and pectin enzymes (on an empty stomach)

Vitamin E (mixed tocopherols) 1000mg daily (begin with 200-400mg daily)

Vitamin C (plus bioflavonoids)

Oats (fibre) and other brans

Olive oil (raw, virgin, cold pressed, kept in refrigerator)

Fish oil

Green tea

Hawthorne berry (also for heart arrhythmias and hypertension)

Grapefruit (note that this can accentuate the effects of some cardiac drugs)

Boswellia

Aloe Vera

Alfalfa

Dandelion

Thyme

Turmeric

Other Supplements for Cardiac Use:

(e.g. for reducing inflammation of tissues, reducing blood pressure or

“thinning” the blood)

CoQ10 (75-150mg a day, with lecithin)

Magnesium (maleate, citrate, aspartate)

Willow bark, Aspirin (75mg a day with meals)

L-arginine on empty stomach (avoid if suffering from herpes, shingles,

schizophrenia)

Ginger

Fish oil

Capsaicin (from “hot” peppers)

MSM

Gotu kola

Ginkgo biloba

Bilberry

Primrose oil

Turmeric

AVOID

Refined carbohydrates

Highly sugared drinks (pop, sodas, etc)

Licorice (can increase blood pressure)

Hydrogenated or “partially hydrogenated” fats (in many cereals, margarines,

candies)

Transfatty acids (in many margarines, cakes, cookies etc)

Heated or fried fats and meats

Fatty meats

Lard and animal fat (many fast food chains use these fats in many products)

Coffee

Ephedra, ephedrine

Shark cartilage

NOTE

If you are considering the use of any of the above supplements, remember that

you should find out as much as you can by reading reputable web pages on each

of them, or consulting books such as:

Balch & Balch, “Prescription for Nutritional Healing”

If you suffer from any cardiac problems, it is essential that you seek

professional medical advice and ascertain if any supplements may interact

adversely with any medication which you may be taking. For example, if you

are on anticoagulants such as warfarin (Coumadin) or heparin, other

supplements such as fish oil, garlic, aspirin, vitamin E (large doses) and

several others can reduce the clotting ability of your blood even further.

If you are on a cholesterol-lowering medication such as one of then statins,

then many of the above supplements can increase the potency of these drugs,

so, in consultation with a suitable medical expert, you should adjust your

dosage accordingly or gradually wean yourself off such drugs, according to

your particular situation. If doing this, it is important that you regularly

have your cholesterol and HDL/LDL ratios checked and that you work under the

The Calcium Cholesterol ConnectionIf you think taking supplemental calcium is only good for bone health, think again. Calcium is a multifaceted nutrient. It happens to be the most abundant mineral in our bodies. Aside from its well-known role in promoting bone health, calcium is important for maximizing enzyme activity, facilitating nerve function, and helping to regulate heart rhythm and muscle contraction.

Low calcium intake has not only been associated with poor bone health, but may also contribute to poor blood pressure and even abnormal cell growth. The benefit of calcium now appears to extend to a completely new arena, which is cholesterol metabolism. In a recent study published in the American Journal of Medicine, 223 women were randomly assigned to take either 1 gram (1,000 mg) of calcium daily in the form of calcium citrate or an inactive placebo for one year1.

Investigators measured levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol and HDL (good) cholesterol at the onset of study, and then again periodically over the 12-month period. At the end of the trial, both HDL cholesterol and HDL-to-LDL ratios had increased more for women taking the calcium supplement compared to those taking placebo. On average, women taking calcium saw an increase in HDL cholesterol levels of about 7%. Authors indicated that this is another reason to encourage postmenopausal women to take calcium.

Further studies are suggested to see if similar benefits are obtained with men, and whether or not calcium supplementation may affect cardiovascular health. The Right Form of Calcium is CriticalWhen taking calcium it’s important to use the right form. Studies show that calcium carbonate has variable absorption, depending on stomach pH.

Calcium citrate malate is believed to be most efficiently absorbed in the stomach and intestines. There may actually be as much as a 1000% increase in absorption rates with calcium citrate malate compared to other forms of calcium.

Evidence supporting the incredible benefits of calcium citrate malate was published on September 4, 1997 in the prestigious New England Journal of Medicine2. Several hundred elderly patients were studied. Half were given 500 mg elemental calcium citrate malate with 700 IU vitamin D, and the other half was given placebo. The results were excellent. Calcium/vitamin D supplements improved bone health and appeared to reduce fracture rates by more than 50%.

In addition, certain forms of calcium other than calcium citrate malate may contain toxic heavy metals. The worst offenders are carbonate (especially oyster shells, a common form). It’s very important to take magnesium in addition to calcium supplements. Most people consume only about half of the Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDA)/Daily Values (DV) of magnesium in their diets. Low levels of magnesium may lead to poor bone and cardiovascular health.

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