Cholesterol

High Cholesterol is a major factor in heart disease and stroke. People who are diagnosed with high cholesterol are typically prescribed medications called Statins. Statin cholesterol-lowering drugs have been shown to cause nerve damage and to greatly impair memory. One reason that statin drugs have these various serious side effects is that they work by inhibiting a vital enzyme that manufactures cholesterol in your liver. This same enzyme also manufactures coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10). CoQ10 is present in almost every cell in the body and is responsible for energy. CoQ10's highest concentration is found in the heart and the liver and is extremely important for the function of these organs. It has recently been reported that the most effective treatment for high cholesterol is diet and exercise. A diet high in soluble fiber (Oats, barley, rice, peas and beans) have a very beneficial effect on cholesterol levels. Research has also shown that by supplementing the diet with artichoke leaf extract , cholesterol levels may be lowered by 18%. The reason being is that artichoke leafs contain a substance called cynarin which seems to increase bile production and effect the speed of bile flow, important processes in the cholesterol scheme. Naturally, CoQ10 supplements have also been effective. As always, every cholesterol lowering trick in the book works best with regular exercise and a overall healthy diet.

Thought for the Week: Lack of activity destroys the good condition of every human being, while movement and methodical physical exercise save it and preserve it. ~Plato

Chiropractic Thought for the Week: "To understand chiropractic, one must understand and respect the absolute control of the nervous system in all things human. Every dimension of a person’s health well-being, mental/emotional state and bodily performance is under the guidance of their neurology. In fact, every aspect of human nature must be measured in terms of the integrity of the nervous system."

--- David Fletcher, DC