Statins are a class of drug that helps lower high levels of bad LDL cholesterol in the body. Although statins are some of the most common medications that are available for lowering cholesterol they may not work for everyone.
Alternatives to statins do exist, but you should remember to talk with your doctor or a professional healthcare provider to determine whether these alternative options can work for your condition. If you have already attempted to use statins to lower your cholesterol level you should still consult with a doctor or professional healthcare provider to determine which alternative treatment would be the best to choose.
Cholesterol absorption inhibitors are one of the types of alternatives to statins.
These inhibitors must be prescribed by a doctor and work by preventing the intestine from absorbing too much cholesterol. This means that there will be less cholesterol in the bloodstream.
Another type of alternative to statins is bile acid-binding resins. Although these are not as effective as statins, bile acid-binding resins will bind with the bile produced by the liver which blocks the cholesterol from going into the bloodstream.
Side effects of these resins include certain vitamin deficiencies which you should consult with your doctor about before taking any bile acid-binding resins.
Changing your lifestyle may be the simplest way to reduce high levels of cholesterol. You should remove or reduce saturated fats from your diet, while also attempting to be more active. Exercise can greatly impact how much your cholesterol will drop.
Adding more fiber to your diet and eating fruits and vegetables will also help to maintain cholesterol levels in the body.
Any of the treatments mentioned should always be combined with positive dietary and lifestyle changes. A balanced diet and an active lifestyle with medications that help to reduce cholesterol will only increase the chance that your cholesterol will become more manageable.
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Posted on May 5, 2023