Simvastatin (brand name: Zocor) is a cholesterol-lowering medication that belongs to the statin class of drugs. It is currently the third most potent statin on the market. Like other statins, simvastatin affects all aspects of your cholesterol profile: It lowers LDL and triglycerides and raises HDL. Simvastatin is available in a generic form and is sold over-the-counter in the United Kingdom.Simvastatin blocks an enzyme called "3-hydroxy-3methylglutaryl coenzyme A (HMG CoA) reductase," which is an important protein needed in the production of cholesterol.This medication may be taken with or without food, as directed by your healthcare provider. This medication should not be taken with grapefruits or grapefruit juice, since this can increase the amount of simvastatin in the blood and, therefore, increase the incidence of side effects. Individuals who have had an allergic reaction to simvastatin or any of its components.
Women who are pregnant.
Women who are breastfeeding.
Individuals who have active liver disease or have abnormally liver enzyme levels.
Individuals who have a history of alcohol abuse. The most common side effects include headache, rash, pharyngitis, gastrointestinal problems (such as abdominal pain, dyspepsia, constipation, or flatulence).The following are serious side effects of simvastatin. If you experience any of these rare side effects, contact your healthcare provider immediately: Myopathy - such as progressive muscle soreness or weakness
Red- or brown-colored urine The following drugs may interact with simvastatin, increasing the likelihood of experiencing side effects (especially myopathy). With the exception of cholesterol-lowering drugs listed below, the remaining drugs also increase levels of simvastatin in your body. If you are required to take one of the drugs listed below, your healthcare provider may need to adjust your dose, monitor you more closely for side effects, or discontinue one of the drugs: Cholesterol lowering drugs (nicotinic acid, fibrates)
Cyclosporine (Neoral, Sandimmune)
Danazol (Danacrine)
Antifungal drugs ending in "-azole" (ketoconazole (Nizoral), fluconazole (Diflucan), miconazole (Mycelex), itraconazole (Sporanox))
Antibiotics ending in "-mycin" (erythromycin, clarithromycin (Biaxin))
Nefazodone (Serzone)
High blood pressure medications - diltiazem and verapramil
Amiodarone (Cordarone)
HIV Protease Inhibitors - ritonavir (Norvir), amprenavir (Agenerase), indinavir (Crixivan), nelfinavir (Viracept)
Efavirenz (Sustiva)
Risperidone (Risperdal)
Quinupristin and dalfopristin (Synercid) Warfarin (Coumadin) - may cause blood to not clot as well. Antacids containing magnesium or aluminum hydroxide may decrease the concentration of simvastatin in the blood. In order to avoid this interaction, separate your simvastatin dose and antacid dose by at least two hours.
Phenytoin (Dilantin) may cause decreased levels of simvastatin in the blood.
St. John's Wort can lower levels of simvastatin in the blood.
Cholesterol-lowering drugs, like bile acid sequestrants, may reduce the absorption of simvastatin into the blood. In order to avoid this, separate your simvastatin dose and bile acid sequestrant dose by at least four hours. This information is just a brief listing and it not inclusive and should not replace the information provided by your healthcare provider or the manufacturer of this drug.
Sources:
Dipiro JT, Talbert RL. Pharmacotherapy: A Pathophysiological Approach, 6th ed 2005.
Lacy CF, Armstrong LL, Goldman MP, et al. Lexicomp's Drug Information Handbook, 15th ed 2007.
if(zSbL
View the original article here
Thursday, December 22, 2011
What Is a CHD Risk Equivalent?
Definition: A CHD risk equivalent, otherwise known as a coronary heart disease equivalent, is a condition that places you at high risk for experiencing a cardiac event, such as a heart attack. In fact, having one or more of these conditions may place you at the same risk of having a cardiac event as someone who has already experienced one.
The following conditions are considered CHD risk equivalents:
While there are only a few CHD risk equivalents, these should be carefully monitored and controlled. Cholesterol levels are also monitored -- especially since high LDL cholesterol levels could occur in many of these conditions and can contribute to the formation of atherosclerosis. if(zSbL
View the original article here
The following conditions are considered CHD risk equivalents:
While there are only a few CHD risk equivalents, these should be carefully monitored and controlled. Cholesterol levels are also monitored -- especially since high LDL cholesterol levels could occur in many of these conditions and can contribute to the formation of atherosclerosis. if(zSbL
View the original article here
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
Home Cholesterol Tests
Since 1993, cholesterol tests have been available over-the-counter at local pharmacies. These cholesterol tests have been approved for use by the Food and Drug Administration and have some important advantages including: When used correctly, they are accurate up to 95% of the time.
Readily available--you don't need a prescription to use one.
Relatively inexpensive--the average cost per cholesterol test is about $14.00.However, there are some drawbacks to using a home cholesterol test which can hurt in the long run, including: Many people forget to fast for at least 9 to 12 hours before using a home cholesterol test, which can cause your test results to be much higher than they actually are. Some home cholesterol tests only give you a total cholesterol reading. Therefore, you will be missing vital information about HDL and LDL levels, which give you a true insight into how bad your cholesterol levels might be. Some individuals, when testing high for cholesterol on one of these tests, may be reluctant to get the follow up care they need. In this case, your healthcare provider needs to further test you in order to determine how high your different cholesterol levels and triglycerides truly are and to take the appropriate measures to lower them. There are newer home cholesterol tests that are digital and also seem to be highly accurate. These newer tests also give LDL, HDL, triglyceride, and glucose readings. Whether your results are good or bad -- it is best always follow up with your healthcare provider. That way, he or she can check the accuracy of the test, as well as treat your cholesterol levels if they are truely high. if(zSbL
View the original article here
Readily available--you don't need a prescription to use one.
Relatively inexpensive--the average cost per cholesterol test is about $14.00.However, there are some drawbacks to using a home cholesterol test which can hurt in the long run, including: Many people forget to fast for at least 9 to 12 hours before using a home cholesterol test, which can cause your test results to be much higher than they actually are. Some home cholesterol tests only give you a total cholesterol reading. Therefore, you will be missing vital information about HDL and LDL levels, which give you a true insight into how bad your cholesterol levels might be. Some individuals, when testing high for cholesterol on one of these tests, may be reluctant to get the follow up care they need. In this case, your healthcare provider needs to further test you in order to determine how high your different cholesterol levels and triglycerides truly are and to take the appropriate measures to lower them. There are newer home cholesterol tests that are digital and also seem to be highly accurate. These newer tests also give LDL, HDL, triglyceride, and glucose readings. Whether your results are good or bad -- it is best always follow up with your healthcare provider. That way, he or she can check the accuracy of the test, as well as treat your cholesterol levels if they are truely high. if(zSbL
View the original article here
Generic Cholesterol Drugs
Answer: The monthly cost of your cholesterol-lowering medications can add up, especially if the drug you are taking is not available in a generic form. The cost can grow even more if you are taking additional medications for other conditions besides your high cholesterol. Don’t be so quick to dump your cholesterol meds due to their cost just yet, though. You may not feel sick when your cholesterol is high, but the consequences of stopping your cholesterol medications could add on even more cost. Leaving your cholesterol levels persistently high could result in heart disease if not treated.
The good news is that some of your cholesterol drugs can be obtained in their generic form. This list currently lists all of the cholesterol-lowering medications that are available as generics:
If your drug is not on this list and you are having trouble affording it, talk with your healthcare provider. In some cases, your doctor may be able to switch you to a medication that is available in a generic form or is less costly.
If this is not possible, you do have other options. In some cases, your healthcare provider can write you a prescription for your medication in a higher dose and you can cut the pills in half. For instance, if you take simvastatin 40 mg every day, your healthcare provider can prescribe simvastatin 80mg (with one-half pill taken daily). Although this may cut down on your monthly cost, it does not work with all cholesterol drugs.
If your medication is not available in generic yet, call the manufacturer of that drug. Some drug companies have prescription assistance programs available to you, which will allow you to obtain your medication at no or minimal cost.
Additionally, if you take prescription omega-3 fatty acids (Lovaza) or extended release niacin (Niaspan), talk with your healthcare provider about taking over-the-counter varieties of these medications. Although they are widely available and cheaper than prescription drugs, they may not be right for everyone. Fish oil and niacin over-the-counter products are not equivalent to their prescription counterparts, but they still may be able to help you lower your cholesterol, without putting a huge dent in your pocketbook.
Sources:
MICROMEDEX® Healthcare Series via Thompson Reuters. Accessed 28 January 2009.
Lacy CF, Armstrong LL, Goldman MP, et al. Lexicomp's Drug Information Handbook, 15th ed 2007.
View the original article here
The good news is that some of your cholesterol drugs can be obtained in their generic form. This list currently lists all of the cholesterol-lowering medications that are available as generics:
If your drug is not on this list and you are having trouble affording it, talk with your healthcare provider. In some cases, your doctor may be able to switch you to a medication that is available in a generic form or is less costly.
If this is not possible, you do have other options. In some cases, your healthcare provider can write you a prescription for your medication in a higher dose and you can cut the pills in half. For instance, if you take simvastatin 40 mg every day, your healthcare provider can prescribe simvastatin 80mg (with one-half pill taken daily). Although this may cut down on your monthly cost, it does not work with all cholesterol drugs.
If your medication is not available in generic yet, call the manufacturer of that drug. Some drug companies have prescription assistance programs available to you, which will allow you to obtain your medication at no or minimal cost.
Additionally, if you take prescription omega-3 fatty acids (Lovaza) or extended release niacin (Niaspan), talk with your healthcare provider about taking over-the-counter varieties of these medications. Although they are widely available and cheaper than prescription drugs, they may not be right for everyone. Fish oil and niacin over-the-counter products are not equivalent to their prescription counterparts, but they still may be able to help you lower your cholesterol, without putting a huge dent in your pocketbook.
Sources:
MICROMEDEX® Healthcare Series via Thompson Reuters. Accessed 28 January 2009.
Lacy CF, Armstrong LL, Goldman MP, et al. Lexicomp's Drug Information Handbook, 15th ed 2007.
View the original article here
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
Hypolipidemia
Definition: Hypolipidemia is a condition where cholesterol levels are too low in the body. Typically, no symptoms are associated with low cholesterol levels. So this finding is usually discovered during a routine cholesterol screening.
An individual is considered to have hypolipidemia if his total cholesterol levels are below 120 mg/dL and LDL cholesterol levels (also known as your “bad” cholesterol) below 50 mg/dL without the use of cholesterol-lowering medications. There are many causes of low cholesterol levels, including certain heath conditions and inherited conditions.
Source:
The Merck Manual of Diagnosis of Therapy, 18th edition. 2006.
Also Known As: low cholesterolif(zSbL
View the original article here
An individual is considered to have hypolipidemia if his total cholesterol levels are below 120 mg/dL and LDL cholesterol levels (also known as your “bad” cholesterol) below 50 mg/dL without the use of cholesterol-lowering medications. There are many causes of low cholesterol levels, including certain heath conditions and inherited conditions.
Source:
The Merck Manual of Diagnosis of Therapy, 18th edition. 2006.
Also Known As: low cholesterolif(zSbL
View the original article here
Sources Of Soluble Fiber
Including foods high in soluble fiber can play an important role in lowering cholesterol and reducing your risk of heart disease. While there are many foods -- especially fruits and vegetables -- that contain fiber, some foods contain a higher amount of soluble fiber than other foods.
The following foods contain a high amount of soluble fiber, and are therefore wise picks when scanning grocery store shelves for cholesterol lowering foods: plums citrus fruits, such as lemons, oranges, limes and grapefruits pears prunes psyllium seeds oatmeal broccoli carrots lentils brussel sprouts peas, such as chickpeas beans, such as lima beans, pinto beans, and kidney beans Including these foods will not only provide you with soluble fiber, but nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, and, in some cases, phytosterols. Phytosterols, which are found in vegetables and fruits, also play an important role in lowering cholesterol.
Sources:
Third Report of the National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP) Expert Panel on Detection, Evaluation, and Treatment of High Blood Cholesterol in Adults (PDF), July 2004, The National Institutes of Heath: The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute.
View the original article here
The following foods contain a high amount of soluble fiber, and are therefore wise picks when scanning grocery store shelves for cholesterol lowering foods: plums citrus fruits, such as lemons, oranges, limes and grapefruits pears prunes psyllium seeds oatmeal broccoli carrots lentils brussel sprouts peas, such as chickpeas beans, such as lima beans, pinto beans, and kidney beans Including these foods will not only provide you with soluble fiber, but nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, and, in some cases, phytosterols. Phytosterols, which are found in vegetables and fruits, also play an important role in lowering cholesterol.
Sources:
Third Report of the National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP) Expert Panel on Detection, Evaluation, and Treatment of High Blood Cholesterol in Adults (PDF), July 2004, The National Institutes of Heath: The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute.
View the original article here
Monday, December 19, 2011
What Is Ischemia?
Answer: Ischemia is any condition that prevents blood from reaching organs and tissues of the body. Blood contains oxygen and many nutrients that are vital for proper function of tissues and organs. Without these components, these tissues will begin to die.
Ischemia can affect any organ or area of tissue in the body, including the heart, the brain, and the legs. Ischemia to these areas of the body could cause ischemic heart disease, dementia, and peripheral vascular disease, respectively.
Surprisingly, cholesterol can play an important role in producing ischemia. When the inner walls of arteries become inflamed, cholesterol and other fats can build up, causing the formation of a thick, waxy plaque through a process called atherosclerosis. As the atherosclerotic plaque thickens, it begins to reduce -- or even obstruct -- blood flow to affected areas of the body, including the heart, brain, and other organs.
When ischemia first begins to develop, you may not experience any symptoms. However, as time progresses, the symptoms you may experience will depend on the area where ischemia is located. Symptoms could include:
Dizziness, fainting, and dementia (for ischemia in vessels supplying the brain)Chest pain, fatigue after slight exertion, and shortness of breath (for ischemia in vessels supplying the heart)Intermittent claudication, leg weakness, numbness or tingling of the legs, and cuts on the limbs do not easily heal (for ischemia in vessels supplying the limbs)
Since many other factors, such as low blood pressure, injury, and blood clots, can also produce ischemia, there is no way to totally prevent it. However, by keeping your cholesterol levels within the normal range, you can lower your risk of developing ischemia.
There are many things you can do to help keep your cholesterol levels within a normal range, including:
Getting your cholesterol checked regularlyConsuming a healthy dietModerate exerciseTaking your cholesterol-lowering medications consistently, if prescribed
Sources:
Fauci AC, Kasper DL, Longo DL et al. Harrison’s Principles of Internal Medicine. 17th edition, 2008.
View the original article here
Ischemia can affect any organ or area of tissue in the body, including the heart, the brain, and the legs. Ischemia to these areas of the body could cause ischemic heart disease, dementia, and peripheral vascular disease, respectively.
Surprisingly, cholesterol can play an important role in producing ischemia. When the inner walls of arteries become inflamed, cholesterol and other fats can build up, causing the formation of a thick, waxy plaque through a process called atherosclerosis. As the atherosclerotic plaque thickens, it begins to reduce -- or even obstruct -- blood flow to affected areas of the body, including the heart, brain, and other organs.
When ischemia first begins to develop, you may not experience any symptoms. However, as time progresses, the symptoms you may experience will depend on the area where ischemia is located. Symptoms could include:
Dizziness, fainting, and dementia (for ischemia in vessels supplying the brain)Chest pain, fatigue after slight exertion, and shortness of breath (for ischemia in vessels supplying the heart)Intermittent claudication, leg weakness, numbness or tingling of the legs, and cuts on the limbs do not easily heal (for ischemia in vessels supplying the limbs)
Since many other factors, such as low blood pressure, injury, and blood clots, can also produce ischemia, there is no way to totally prevent it. However, by keeping your cholesterol levels within the normal range, you can lower your risk of developing ischemia.
There are many things you can do to help keep your cholesterol levels within a normal range, including:
Getting your cholesterol checked regularlyConsuming a healthy dietModerate exerciseTaking your cholesterol-lowering medications consistently, if prescribed
Sources:
Fauci AC, Kasper DL, Longo DL et al. Harrison’s Principles of Internal Medicine. 17th edition, 2008.
View the original article here
First Steps to Reduce High Cholesterol
Would you like to begin a diet to reduce high cholesterol, but are overwhelmed with how to start? The thought of changing lifelong eating habits can be daunting at first, but following these easy steps will make it much easier for you. You will soon see that adopting a diet to reduce high cholesterol can be easy and enjoyable.
1. Prepare Your Kitchen
Start by throwing out or donating high saturated fat, high cholesterol, or "junk foods." These foods can increase your low density lipoprotein (LDL) or "bad cholesterol" and are not recommended on your new diet. Remember, if these foods aren't available, you can't eat them!
Consider limiting these foods to special occasions only, if you eat them at all. If you must keep these foods in the house for other family members, place them behind healthy foods in your cabinet or refrigerator. That way if you become tempted to reach for unhealthy foods, you will see cholesterol-friendly foods first.
Ready Your Kitchen for Your Heart Healthy Diet
2. Get to Know Your Grocery Store
Next, select cholesterol-friendly foods by "shopping the perimeter." Fresh fruits and vegetables, lean meats, and low-fat dairy products are found in the outside aisles of the grocery store, while packaged and processed foods are stored in the interior aisles.
Purchase two fresh fruits or vegetables that you have not tried before or have not had in a while. Fresh fruits and vegetables, such as apples, berries, bananas, carrots, broccoli, are an important source of soluble fiber, which can lower your LDL and total cholesterol levels.
For packaged foods, start looking at snacks and meals with health claims of "high-fiber" or "whole-grain" and begin to look at the Nutrition Facts Label listed on the product. Don't feel that you have to completely understand the information listed on the nutrition label right away; just get in the habit of looking at it for now.
3. Research Restaurants
Go online and look at the menus of restaurants you visit often, as well as new restaurants that you have not tried before. Look for heart-healthy or vegetarian icons next to foods, and consider trying some of these dishes the next time you dine out. Get in the habit of researching a restaurant's menu before you dine, and plan what you will order ahead of time to make your meal more cholesterol-friendly.
Low-Cholesterol Ethnic Dining
4. Try Healthier Cooking Techniques
Begin preparing your foods by using baking, steaming, boiling, broiling, grilling or microwaving techniques. Avoid frying foods.
Read more Low-Cholesterol Cooking Techniques
5. Read All About It
Read everything you can online and in print on dieting to reduce cholesterol. You can start right here on About.com Cholesterol.
Use the new information you have learned to decide which changes you will make. It may be helpful to write out both short and long-term goals for improving your diet and place them on your refrigerator door. Be realistic about the changes you will be willing and able to make. Consider your motivation level, daily schedule, and lifestyle when listing your goals. Tools You Need to Begin Your DietBasics of a Cholesterol-Lowering DietEating Out on a Cholesterol-Lowering Diet
View the original article here
1. Prepare Your Kitchen
Start by throwing out or donating high saturated fat, high cholesterol, or "junk foods." These foods can increase your low density lipoprotein (LDL) or "bad cholesterol" and are not recommended on your new diet. Remember, if these foods aren't available, you can't eat them!
Consider limiting these foods to special occasions only, if you eat them at all. If you must keep these foods in the house for other family members, place them behind healthy foods in your cabinet or refrigerator. That way if you become tempted to reach for unhealthy foods, you will see cholesterol-friendly foods first.
Ready Your Kitchen for Your Heart Healthy Diet
2. Get to Know Your Grocery Store
Next, select cholesterol-friendly foods by "shopping the perimeter." Fresh fruits and vegetables, lean meats, and low-fat dairy products are found in the outside aisles of the grocery store, while packaged and processed foods are stored in the interior aisles.
Purchase two fresh fruits or vegetables that you have not tried before or have not had in a while. Fresh fruits and vegetables, such as apples, berries, bananas, carrots, broccoli, are an important source of soluble fiber, which can lower your LDL and total cholesterol levels.
For packaged foods, start looking at snacks and meals with health claims of "high-fiber" or "whole-grain" and begin to look at the Nutrition Facts Label listed on the product. Don't feel that you have to completely understand the information listed on the nutrition label right away; just get in the habit of looking at it for now.
3. Research Restaurants
Go online and look at the menus of restaurants you visit often, as well as new restaurants that you have not tried before. Look for heart-healthy or vegetarian icons next to foods, and consider trying some of these dishes the next time you dine out. Get in the habit of researching a restaurant's menu before you dine, and plan what you will order ahead of time to make your meal more cholesterol-friendly.
Low-Cholesterol Ethnic Dining
4. Try Healthier Cooking Techniques
Begin preparing your foods by using baking, steaming, boiling, broiling, grilling or microwaving techniques. Avoid frying foods.
Read more Low-Cholesterol Cooking Techniques
5. Read All About It
Read everything you can online and in print on dieting to reduce cholesterol. You can start right here on About.com Cholesterol.
Use the new information you have learned to decide which changes you will make. It may be helpful to write out both short and long-term goals for improving your diet and place them on your refrigerator door. Be realistic about the changes you will be willing and able to make. Consider your motivation level, daily schedule, and lifestyle when listing your goals. Tools You Need to Begin Your DietBasics of a Cholesterol-Lowering DietEating Out on a Cholesterol-Lowering Diet
View the original article here
Sunday, December 18, 2011
Statins: Drugs & Conditions
Statin drugs have the potential to induce statin side effects, they also have the potential for drug interactions.
Statins are a class of cholesterol-lowering drugs that target all aspects of your lipid profile: They lower LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, while raising HDL cholesterol. Although they are very effective in lowering cholesterol levels, statins may not be for everyone. There are some things you should let your healthcare provider know before you begin statin therapy, such as medical conditions you may have or any medications that have been prescribed to you by another physician. Additionally, if you receive medical treatment from someone other than your healthcare provider, you should let him or her know that you are taking a statin.
This is a general list of medical conditions and medications that you should be aware of. For a more complete list, remember to consult the information for the specific statin if you are taking (Crestor (rosuvastatin), Zocor (simvastatin), Mevacor (lovastatin), Lescol (fluvastatin), Lipitor (atorvastatin), or Pravachol (pravastatin)).
You should let your healthcare provider know if you have one or more of the following conditions before you begin taking a statin: Active or chronic liver disease
Pregnancy – Statins may cause birth defects.
Breastfeeding – Statin drugs could cross the breast milk and be ingested by your baby.
Alcohol abuse – Statins could further increase liver enzymes.
Some medications may interact with statins, by either decreasing the effectiveness of your statin or increasing the statin level in the blood to the point where it may become harmful to the body. Be sure to notify your healthcare provider if you are already taking any of these medications below. Just because you are on any of these medications, it does not mean that you are not able to take a statin. However, your healthcare provider may want to monitor you more closely while on these drugs, since taking these medications with a statin may increase your risk of side effects. This list is not inclusive, so if you need a complete list of drug interactions, please read the individual information about your statin (Crestor (rosuvastatin), Zocor (simvastatin), Mevacor (lovastatin), Lescol (fluvastatin), Lipitor (atorvastatin), or Pravachol (pravastatin )) or consult your healthcare provider for further information: Nicotinic acid, or niacin, in high doses (greater than 1 gram a day) could increase risk of experiencing statin side effects.
Bile acid sequestrants may decrease the effectiveness of some statins. In order to avoid this, your statin dose and bile acid sequestrant dose can be separated by at least four hours.
Fibrates may increase the risk of experiencing statin side effects.
Samdimmune or Neoral (cyclosporine) may increase the amount of statins present in the blood and may also increase side effects.
Fluvoxamine may increase the concentration of some statins present in the blood and may also increase statin side effects.
Antifungal drugs ending in "-azole”, such as Nizoral (ketoconazole), Diflucan (fluconazole), Mycelex (miconazole), or Sporanox (itraconazole), may increase the amount of some statins present in the blood and may also increase statin side effects.
Antibiotics ending in "-mycin" such as erythromycin or Biaxin (clarithromycin) may increase the amount of statins present in the blood and may also increase side effects.
High blood pressure medications, such as diltiazem and verapramil, may increase the amount of statins present in the blood and may also increase side effects.
Cordarone (Amiodarone) may increase the amount of some statins present in the blood and may also increase the side effects of statins.
HIV Protease Inhibitors, such as Norvir (ritonavir), Agenerase (amprenavir), Crixivan (indinavir), or Viracept (nelfinavir), may increase the amount of some statins present in the blood and may also increase side effects.
Coumadin (warfarin) – Taking a statin with this drug could cause the blood to not clot as well.
Prilosec (omeprazole) may increase the amount of some statins present in the blood and may also increase the side effects of statins.
Tagamet (cimetidine) may increase the amount of some statins present in the blood and may also increase the side effects of statins.
Zantac (rantidine) may increase the amount of some statins present in the blood and may also increase the side effects of statins.
Oral contraceptives – Statins may increase the concentration of these hormones in the body.
Lanoxin (digoxin) – Statins may increase the concentration of some statins in the body.
Antacids containing magnesium or aluminum hydroxide may decrease the concentration of some statins in the body. This can be prevented by separating your statin dose and antacid dose by at least two hours.
St. John's Wort may decrease the effectiveness of some statins.
Sources:
Dipiro JT, Talbert RL. Pharmacotherapy: A Pathophysiological Approach, 6th ed 2005.
Lacy CF, Armstrong LL, Goldman MP, et al. Lexicomp's Drug Information Handbook, 15th ed 2007.
View the original article here
Statins are a class of cholesterol-lowering drugs that target all aspects of your lipid profile: They lower LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, while raising HDL cholesterol. Although they are very effective in lowering cholesterol levels, statins may not be for everyone. There are some things you should let your healthcare provider know before you begin statin therapy, such as medical conditions you may have or any medications that have been prescribed to you by another physician. Additionally, if you receive medical treatment from someone other than your healthcare provider, you should let him or her know that you are taking a statin.
This is a general list of medical conditions and medications that you should be aware of. For a more complete list, remember to consult the information for the specific statin if you are taking (Crestor (rosuvastatin), Zocor (simvastatin), Mevacor (lovastatin), Lescol (fluvastatin), Lipitor (atorvastatin), or Pravachol (pravastatin)).
You should let your healthcare provider know if you have one or more of the following conditions before you begin taking a statin: Active or chronic liver disease
Pregnancy – Statins may cause birth defects.
Breastfeeding – Statin drugs could cross the breast milk and be ingested by your baby.
Alcohol abuse – Statins could further increase liver enzymes.
Some medications may interact with statins, by either decreasing the effectiveness of your statin or increasing the statin level in the blood to the point where it may become harmful to the body. Be sure to notify your healthcare provider if you are already taking any of these medications below. Just because you are on any of these medications, it does not mean that you are not able to take a statin. However, your healthcare provider may want to monitor you more closely while on these drugs, since taking these medications with a statin may increase your risk of side effects. This list is not inclusive, so if you need a complete list of drug interactions, please read the individual information about your statin (Crestor (rosuvastatin), Zocor (simvastatin), Mevacor (lovastatin), Lescol (fluvastatin), Lipitor (atorvastatin), or Pravachol (pravastatin )) or consult your healthcare provider for further information: Nicotinic acid, or niacin, in high doses (greater than 1 gram a day) could increase risk of experiencing statin side effects.
Bile acid sequestrants may decrease the effectiveness of some statins. In order to avoid this, your statin dose and bile acid sequestrant dose can be separated by at least four hours.
Fibrates may increase the risk of experiencing statin side effects.
Samdimmune or Neoral (cyclosporine) may increase the amount of statins present in the blood and may also increase side effects.
Fluvoxamine may increase the concentration of some statins present in the blood and may also increase statin side effects.
Antifungal drugs ending in "-azole”, such as Nizoral (ketoconazole), Diflucan (fluconazole), Mycelex (miconazole), or Sporanox (itraconazole), may increase the amount of some statins present in the blood and may also increase statin side effects.
Antibiotics ending in "-mycin" such as erythromycin or Biaxin (clarithromycin) may increase the amount of statins present in the blood and may also increase side effects.
High blood pressure medications, such as diltiazem and verapramil, may increase the amount of statins present in the blood and may also increase side effects.
Cordarone (Amiodarone) may increase the amount of some statins present in the blood and may also increase the side effects of statins.
HIV Protease Inhibitors, such as Norvir (ritonavir), Agenerase (amprenavir), Crixivan (indinavir), or Viracept (nelfinavir), may increase the amount of some statins present in the blood and may also increase side effects.
Coumadin (warfarin) – Taking a statin with this drug could cause the blood to not clot as well.
Prilosec (omeprazole) may increase the amount of some statins present in the blood and may also increase the side effects of statins.
Tagamet (cimetidine) may increase the amount of some statins present in the blood and may also increase the side effects of statins.
Zantac (rantidine) may increase the amount of some statins present in the blood and may also increase the side effects of statins.
Oral contraceptives – Statins may increase the concentration of these hormones in the body.
Lanoxin (digoxin) – Statins may increase the concentration of some statins in the body.
Antacids containing magnesium or aluminum hydroxide may decrease the concentration of some statins in the body. This can be prevented by separating your statin dose and antacid dose by at least two hours.
St. John's Wort may decrease the effectiveness of some statins.
Sources:
Dipiro JT, Talbert RL. Pharmacotherapy: A Pathophysiological Approach, 6th ed 2005.
Lacy CF, Armstrong LL, Goldman MP, et al. Lexicomp's Drug Information Handbook, 15th ed 2007.
View the original article here
Where to Get Your Lipid Test
There are many places you can go to get your cholesterol checked, ranging from your healthcare provider’s office to the comforts of your own home. In some cases, you can even have your cholesterol tested for free. Getting your cholesterol tested is an important step you can take towards preventing heart disease. In fact, the National Cholesterol Education Program recommends that anyone over the age of 20 should at least get their cholesterol checked at least once every five years. With the many options you have, there is no excuse for not getting your cholesterol checked!The most common place a cholesterol test is performed in is your healthcare provider's office. Your healthcare provider can administer a blood cholesterol test that can test total cholesterol, VLDL, LDL, HDL, triglycerides and, sometimes, apolipoproteins. These tests are mostly accurate – especially if you have made the proper preparations before having your cholesterol test. Most healthcare providers will usually perform a cholesterol test at your annual physical examination.zSB(3,3)Health fairs are also an excellent way to have your cholesterol checked, and in most cases, these tests are free. Although they are helpful in detecting high cholesterol, some of these tests may not be as accurate. This is usually due to the fact that you may not be as likely to abstain from food before taking a test. Additionally, these cholesterol tests may only test for total cholesterol levels, not giving you a complete picture of your lipid profile. In any case, these tests can give you some insight as to whether or not you have high cholesterol. When in doubt, or if your cholesterol was found to be high at a health fair cholesterol test, always follow up with a test at your healthcare provider’s office.Home cholesterol tests allow you to have your cholesterol tested in the comforts of your own home. They are available online and at most pharmacies, and range widely in cost. There are a variety of home cholesterol tests available, ranging from tests that can check for just total cholesterol to those that can determine HDL, LDL, and triglycerides. Although they are mostly accurate, they may be prone to errors if the directions are not followed properly.if(zSbL
View the original article here
View the original article here
Saturday, December 17, 2011
What Is High Cholesterol?
High cholesterol is a condition, where too much cholesterol is circulating through your body. Although cholesterol is important in performing several biological functions, too much cholesterol could lead to heart disease if not properly addressed.There's been a lot of news about cholesterol recently, but what does it mean in terms of our health? Cholesterol has an important task in our bodies to carry out a variety of biological processes, but if you have too much of it in the body, it can potentially cause heart disease. The worst problem with high cholesterol is that you usually don't even know you have it, unless you've had your cholesterol recently tested. There are many things to know about this silent, yet potentially deadly, condition. Do you know everything you need to know about high cholesterol? zSB(3,3)If you've ever taken a close look at your blood test results, you may have noticed that under your total cholesterol results, there are also types of cholesterol and triglycerides listed. Some of these types of cholesterol can be dangerous to your heart if you have too much of it circulating in your body. There, however, is another type of cholesterol that is actually good to have around. Knowing the different types of cholesterol circulating in your body will help you to understand the role that these fats play in your health, as well as to understand your cholesterol test results.There are many factors that can place you at risk for having high cholesterol, including your age, certain diseases, diet and lifestyle. Leading a sedentary lifestyle that consists of high-fat foods and no exercise can contribute to having high cholesterol levels. Additionally, having a family history of high cholesterol, such as a parent or sibling being diagnosed with high cholesterol levels, also places you at risk of having this condition. Knowing your risks for high cholesterol can help you to address — and in some cases, correct — them before they lead to further complications. Anyone is at risk of having high cholesterol. You could be the healthiest person in the world, but if you have a family history of high cholesterol, you're at risk for increased cholesterol levels. You could also be the person who has no family history of high cholesterol, but likes to eat fast food at every meal. There is no true predictor of who will get high cholesterol. Studies, however, have shown that certain ethnicities and populations are at higher risk of having high cholesterol and heart disease. There are a lot of rumors circulating out there about high cholesterol. Some of them are true, but many of them are false. High cholesterol is often misunderstood, and many people think that having no symptoms of high cholesterol means that everything is OK. Additionally, just because your cholesterol levels are OK now, it doesn't give you permission to not worry about high cholesterol for the rest of your life. Believing some of these myths could place your health in danger if you give in to them. This article will help you sort the facts from fiction.High cholesterol has no symptoms, so that means you don't need to worry about high cholesterol, right? Think again. While high cholesterol is silent, it can potentially result in a variety of health problems, including a heart attack or stroke. Addressing your high cholesterol levels now can help you to avoid complications later on in life. if(zSbL
View the original article here
View the original article here
What Are Statin Drugs?
Statin drugs are cholesterol medications that possess many benefits -including the fact that statins lower cholesterol significantly.
Statins are a class of cholesterol lowering drug that work by blocking 3-hydroxy-3-methyl-glutaryl-CoA coenzyme A reductase (or HMG CoA reductase), a protein that participates in an important step in making cholesterol in the body. Six statins are currently on the U.S. market:
The above list is ordered from more potent to less potent. Therefore, rosuvastatin and pitavastatin are a few of the more potent statins on the market, while fluvastatin is the least potent within the statin class of drugs.
Statins positively affect all aspects of the lipid profile: They lower LDL cholesterol, or “bad” cholesterol, by 18% to 65%.
They raise HDL cholesterol, or “good” cholesterol, by 15% to 30%.
They lower triglycerides by 7% to 30%.
Besides lowering cholesterol, statins possess other beneficial properties as well. This class of medications has been shown to reduce inflammation and the likelihood of a second cardiovascular event, such as a stroke or heart attack, in individuals who already have heart disease.
Sources:
Third Report of the National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP) Expert Panel on Detection, Evaluation, and Treatment of High Blood Cholesterol in Adults (PDF), July 2004, The National Institutes of Heath: The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute.
Okura H, Asawa K, Kubo T, et al. Impact of statin therapy on systemic inflammation, left ventricular systolic and diastolic function and prognosis in low risk ischemic heart disease patients without history of congestive heart failure. Intern Med. 2007;46(17):1337-43.
Skinner JS, Cooper A, Feder GS. Secondary prevention for patients following a myocardial infarction: summary of NICE guidance. Heart. 2007 Jul;93(7):862-4.
View the original article here
Statins are a class of cholesterol lowering drug that work by blocking 3-hydroxy-3-methyl-glutaryl-CoA coenzyme A reductase (or HMG CoA reductase), a protein that participates in an important step in making cholesterol in the body. Six statins are currently on the U.S. market:
The above list is ordered from more potent to less potent. Therefore, rosuvastatin and pitavastatin are a few of the more potent statins on the market, while fluvastatin is the least potent within the statin class of drugs.
Statins positively affect all aspects of the lipid profile: They lower LDL cholesterol, or “bad” cholesterol, by 18% to 65%.
They raise HDL cholesterol, or “good” cholesterol, by 15% to 30%.
They lower triglycerides by 7% to 30%.
Besides lowering cholesterol, statins possess other beneficial properties as well. This class of medications has been shown to reduce inflammation and the likelihood of a second cardiovascular event, such as a stroke or heart attack, in individuals who already have heart disease.
Sources:
Third Report of the National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP) Expert Panel on Detection, Evaluation, and Treatment of High Blood Cholesterol in Adults (PDF), July 2004, The National Institutes of Heath: The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute.
Okura H, Asawa K, Kubo T, et al. Impact of statin therapy on systemic inflammation, left ventricular systolic and diastolic function and prognosis in low risk ischemic heart disease patients without history of congestive heart failure. Intern Med. 2007;46(17):1337-43.
Skinner JS, Cooper A, Feder GS. Secondary prevention for patients following a myocardial infarction: summary of NICE guidance. Heart. 2007 Jul;93(7):862-4.
View the original article here
Friday, December 16, 2011
Sample Low-Cholesterol 1200 Calorie Meal Plan
Watching your calories, as well as your fat and cholesterol intake, is part of managing your cholesterol through diet. This 1200-calorie meal plan can help make doing this easy.
Remember that your dietary requirements may be higher or lower than 1200 calories depending on your weight, age, and activity level.
You can also always consult your physician and/or a dietitian for guidance.
Enjoy!
Look for links to recipes within this meal plan. The total calories, fat, etc. of this meal plan are based on these preparations.
Breakfast
Beverage: 1 cup (8oz) decaffeinated coffee with 2 oz skim milk
1 serving Melba Peach Smoothie
2 slices whole grain bread (make sure 100% whole wheat flour is the first ingredient listed)
2 tsp stenol/ light plant sterol spread, such as Benecol
Snack
8 oz nonfat yogurt with 2 tsp honey
Lunch
Beverage: 1 cup (8 oz lemon or orange flavored seltzer)
1 serving Tomato Spinach Soup
1 serving Chicken Caesar Salad
Snack
10 red or green grapes, seedless
Dinner
Beverage: 1 cup (8oz) decaffeinated flavored iced tea
1 serving Low Fat Chicken, Asparagus, and Quinoa Salad
2 Chocolate-covered Strawberries
Optional beverage: glass of red wine*
Nutrition Information Total For The Day: Calories 1200, Calories from Fat 230.2, Total Fat 25.8g (sat 8.1g), Cholesterol 108 mg, Sodium 1,445 mg, Carbohydrate 197g, Fiber 25.2g, Protein 78g
Tip: To make these dishes even more heart healthy, lower the sodium of these dishes by using a non-sodium salt substitute.
One glass of red wine contributes an additional (5 oz Serving): Calories 127, Calories from Fat 0, Total Fat 0g (sat 0.g), Cholesterol 0mg, Sodium 0 mg, Carbohydrate 5.5g, Fiber 0g, Protein 0.1g.
*Be certain to ask your doctor if alcohol is permitted on your diet plan and with your current medication regimen. Pregnant or nursing women should completely abstain from alcohol.
This information does not replace the advice of your doctor.
View the original article here
Remember that your dietary requirements may be higher or lower than 1200 calories depending on your weight, age, and activity level.
You can also always consult your physician and/or a dietitian for guidance.
Enjoy!
Look for links to recipes within this meal plan. The total calories, fat, etc. of this meal plan are based on these preparations.
Breakfast
Beverage: 1 cup (8oz) decaffeinated coffee with 2 oz skim milk
1 serving Melba Peach Smoothie
2 slices whole grain bread (make sure 100% whole wheat flour is the first ingredient listed)
2 tsp stenol/ light plant sterol spread, such as Benecol
Snack
8 oz nonfat yogurt with 2 tsp honey
Lunch
Beverage: 1 cup (8 oz lemon or orange flavored seltzer)
1 serving Tomato Spinach Soup
1 serving Chicken Caesar Salad
Snack
10 red or green grapes, seedless
Dinner
Beverage: 1 cup (8oz) decaffeinated flavored iced tea
1 serving Low Fat Chicken, Asparagus, and Quinoa Salad
2 Chocolate-covered Strawberries
Optional beverage: glass of red wine*
Nutrition Information Total For The Day: Calories 1200, Calories from Fat 230.2, Total Fat 25.8g (sat 8.1g), Cholesterol 108 mg, Sodium 1,445 mg, Carbohydrate 197g, Fiber 25.2g, Protein 78g
Tip: To make these dishes even more heart healthy, lower the sodium of these dishes by using a non-sodium salt substitute.
One glass of red wine contributes an additional (5 oz Serving): Calories 127, Calories from Fat 0, Total Fat 0g (sat 0.g), Cholesterol 0mg, Sodium 0 mg, Carbohydrate 5.5g, Fiber 0g, Protein 0.1g.
*Be certain to ask your doctor if alcohol is permitted on your diet plan and with your current medication regimen. Pregnant or nursing women should completely abstain from alcohol.
This information does not replace the advice of your doctor.
View the original article here
Why Exercise?
Whether you are trying to prevent high cholesterol, or have already been diagnosed with it, exercise can be an important weapon in the fight against high cholesterol and heart disease. According to recent studies, regular exercise has the ability to lower LDL levels (also known as “bad” cholesterol) and raise HDL cholesterol (also known as “good” cholesterol).
How low can your cholesterol levels go if you regularly exercise? Current studies suggest that LDL cholesterol can be lowered by 5 to 10%, whereas HDL cholesterol can be raised by between 3 and 6% with regular exercise. While most of these studies involved aerobic exercises, such as swimming, running, and jogging, there are a handful of studies that have also looked at the healthy benefits of other forms of exercise, such as yoga and walking, in lowering cholesterol, too. Regardless of which type you select, exercise can be an important part of your cholesterol-lowering regimen.
Current guidelines suggest that you get at least 30 minutes of exercise a day for most days of the week. If you haven’t exercised in a while, it is important to start out gradually so that you don’t injure yourself or get burned out. For some people, just finding the time to exercise can be an issue. If this sounds like you, the 30-minute interval can be divided up. Additionally, there are shortcuts you can fit into the day that force you to get some exercise.
In any case, exercise has many benefits – besides lowering your cholesterol. Exercise can also strengthen your heart, bones, and other muscles of the body, in addition to helping you to lose weight.
Sources:
Slentz CA, Houmard JA, Johnson JL et al. Inactivity, exercise training and detraining, and plasma lipoproteins. STRRIDE: a randomized, controlled study of exercise intensity and amount. J Appl Physiol. 2007 Aug;103(2):417-8.
Powers E, Saultz J, Hamilton A, et al. Clinical inquiries. Which lifestyle interventions effectively lower LDL cholesterol? J Fam Pract. 2007 Jun;56(6):483-5.
View the original article here
How low can your cholesterol levels go if you regularly exercise? Current studies suggest that LDL cholesterol can be lowered by 5 to 10%, whereas HDL cholesterol can be raised by between 3 and 6% with regular exercise. While most of these studies involved aerobic exercises, such as swimming, running, and jogging, there are a handful of studies that have also looked at the healthy benefits of other forms of exercise, such as yoga and walking, in lowering cholesterol, too. Regardless of which type you select, exercise can be an important part of your cholesterol-lowering regimen.
Current guidelines suggest that you get at least 30 minutes of exercise a day for most days of the week. If you haven’t exercised in a while, it is important to start out gradually so that you don’t injure yourself or get burned out. For some people, just finding the time to exercise can be an issue. If this sounds like you, the 30-minute interval can be divided up. Additionally, there are shortcuts you can fit into the day that force you to get some exercise.
In any case, exercise has many benefits – besides lowering your cholesterol. Exercise can also strengthen your heart, bones, and other muscles of the body, in addition to helping you to lose weight.
Sources:
Slentz CA, Houmard JA, Johnson JL et al. Inactivity, exercise training and detraining, and plasma lipoproteins. STRRIDE: a randomized, controlled study of exercise intensity and amount. J Appl Physiol. 2007 Aug;103(2):417-8.
Powers E, Saultz J, Hamilton A, et al. Clinical inquiries. Which lifestyle interventions effectively lower LDL cholesterol? J Fam Pract. 2007 Jun;56(6):483-5.
View the original article here
Top 5 Low-Fat Fast Foods
Fast food is convenient, tasty and economical. For years there were little to no heart healthy choices to be found. But thanks to public demand, there are now more lower-cholesterol options to choose from. We aren't recommending you frequent fast food restaurants on a low-cholesterol diet, but if you find yourself in one, here's how to make a smarter choice. Read on for a list of 5 low-cholesterol fast food entrees worth checking out.
Low-Cholesterol Guidelines For Fast Food:
Know Before You Go Check out the nutrition information on the websites of the restaurants that you visit most. Try to plan what you will order ahead of time.
Size Matters Select a small sized entrée. Did you know that in a fast food restaurant small hamburgers (3.0 to 3.5 ounces) are usually a lower-cholesterol choice than chicken sandwiches? (They average 5.0 to 5.5 ounces).
Add A Healthy Topping Add extra vegetables to your entrée, such as pickles or tomato.
Skip the Fries, Add A Healthy Side Try a garden salad with low-calorie dressing (or even better, a squirt of lemon).
Watch Your Frequency Limit eating at fast food restaurants to one or two times per month.
ome options to check out:
Domino's "Thin Crust Veggie Pizza", (2 squares of 12" medium pizza, 1/8 pizza) Locations nation-wide (http://cache.dominos.com/homev8/docs/menu/dominos_nutrition_v2.30.00.pdf)
143 Calories, 63 Calories from Fat, Total Fat 7g (sat 2.5g), Cholesterol 15 mg, Sodium 240 mg, Carbohydrate 15g, Fiber 3g, Protein 5gTip: Start your meal with a filling "Garden Fresh Salad" to help limit yourself to 2 pizza squares.
McDonald's Small Hamburger Locations nation-wide (http://www.mcdonalds.com/us/en/food/food_quality/nutrition_choices.html)
(3.5 oz) 250 Calories, 80 Calories from Fat , 9 Total Fat g (3.5 g sat, 16% rdv ), Cholesterol 25mg, Sodium 520 mg, Carbohydrate 31g, Fiber 2g, Protein 12 gNote: this is not a low-sodium item, so plan the rest of your day's meals accordingly.
Taco Bell's "Fresco Crunchy" Taco Locations nation-wide (http://www.tacobell.com/nutrition/information)
(92g) 150 Calories, 70 Calories from Fat , 7 Total Fat g (2.5 g sat), Cholesterol 13 mg, Sodium 350 mg, Carbohydrate 13g, Fiber 3g, Protein 7gTip: Ask for extra salsa for an added nutrient bonus.
Subway's "Veggie Delight" Sandwich, 6'' Locations nation-wide (http://www.subway.com/applications/NutritionInfo/nutritionlist.aspx?id=lowfat)
230 Calories, 20 Calories from Fat, Total Fat 2.5 g (sat 0.5 g), Cholesterol 45 mg, Sodium 410 mg, Carbohydrate 45 g, Fiber 5g, Protein 8gTip: All 8 varieties of Subway's "Fresh Fit" 6'' subs contain no more than 50 mg of cholesterol, 260 calories, and 6 grams of total fat.
Wendy's "Mandarin Chicken" Salad Locations nation-wide (http://www.wendys.com/food/healthy-options.jsp)
(Use just a drizzle of the dressing, and skip the crispy noodle packet.) 330 Calories, 120 Calories from Fat , Total Fat 13g (sat 1.5 g), Cholesterol 85 mg, Sodium 810 mg, Carbohydrate 22 g, Fiber 5g, Protein 34gNote: this is not a low-sodium item, so plan the rest of your day's meals accordingly.Tip: The title "crispy" is usually a code word for fried (meaning extra fat and calories you don't need). Avoid crispy foods and choose baked, steamed or grilled options.
Bottom Line: A busy schedule doesn't have to mean sabotaging your low-cholesterol diet plan. Plan ahead, add healthy extras, and enjoy!
View the original article here
Low-Cholesterol Guidelines For Fast Food:
Know Before You Go Check out the nutrition information on the websites of the restaurants that you visit most. Try to plan what you will order ahead of time.
Size Matters Select a small sized entrée. Did you know that in a fast food restaurant small hamburgers (3.0 to 3.5 ounces) are usually a lower-cholesterol choice than chicken sandwiches? (They average 5.0 to 5.5 ounces).
Add A Healthy Topping Add extra vegetables to your entrée, such as pickles or tomato.
Skip the Fries, Add A Healthy Side Try a garden salad with low-calorie dressing (or even better, a squirt of lemon).
Watch Your Frequency Limit eating at fast food restaurants to one or two times per month.
ome options to check out:
Domino's "Thin Crust Veggie Pizza", (2 squares of 12" medium pizza, 1/8 pizza) Locations nation-wide (http://cache.dominos.com/homev8/docs/menu/dominos_nutrition_v2.30.00.pdf)
143 Calories, 63 Calories from Fat, Total Fat 7g (sat 2.5g), Cholesterol 15 mg, Sodium 240 mg, Carbohydrate 15g, Fiber 3g, Protein 5gTip: Start your meal with a filling "Garden Fresh Salad" to help limit yourself to 2 pizza squares.
McDonald's Small Hamburger Locations nation-wide (http://www.mcdonalds.com/us/en/food/food_quality/nutrition_choices.html)
(3.5 oz) 250 Calories, 80 Calories from Fat , 9 Total Fat g (3.5 g sat, 16% rdv ), Cholesterol 25mg, Sodium 520 mg, Carbohydrate 31g, Fiber 2g, Protein 12 gNote: this is not a low-sodium item, so plan the rest of your day's meals accordingly.
Taco Bell's "Fresco Crunchy" Taco Locations nation-wide (http://www.tacobell.com/nutrition/information)
(92g) 150 Calories, 70 Calories from Fat , 7 Total Fat g (2.5 g sat), Cholesterol 13 mg, Sodium 350 mg, Carbohydrate 13g, Fiber 3g, Protein 7gTip: Ask for extra salsa for an added nutrient bonus.
Subway's "Veggie Delight" Sandwich, 6'' Locations nation-wide (http://www.subway.com/applications/NutritionInfo/nutritionlist.aspx?id=lowfat)
230 Calories, 20 Calories from Fat, Total Fat 2.5 g (sat 0.5 g), Cholesterol 45 mg, Sodium 410 mg, Carbohydrate 45 g, Fiber 5g, Protein 8gTip: All 8 varieties of Subway's "Fresh Fit" 6'' subs contain no more than 50 mg of cholesterol, 260 calories, and 6 grams of total fat.
Wendy's "Mandarin Chicken" Salad Locations nation-wide (http://www.wendys.com/food/healthy-options.jsp)
(Use just a drizzle of the dressing, and skip the crispy noodle packet.) 330 Calories, 120 Calories from Fat , Total Fat 13g (sat 1.5 g), Cholesterol 85 mg, Sodium 810 mg, Carbohydrate 22 g, Fiber 5g, Protein 34gNote: this is not a low-sodium item, so plan the rest of your day's meals accordingly.Tip: The title "crispy" is usually a code word for fried (meaning extra fat and calories you don't need). Avoid crispy foods and choose baked, steamed or grilled options.
Bottom Line: A busy schedule doesn't have to mean sabotaging your low-cholesterol diet plan. Plan ahead, add healthy extras, and enjoy!
View the original article here
Thursday, December 15, 2011
How Is LDL Calculated?
Answer: Having your cholesterol checked -- especially your LDL cholesterol -- is important in order to address high cholesterol levels and assess your risk for heart disease. While other lipids, such as HDL, total cholesterol and triglycerides, are directly measured using lab instruments, LDL may be measured directly or indirectly.
Indirect measurement of LDL is performed by using the Friedewald equation. The Friedewald equation is a mathematical formula developed by William Friedewald to calculate the concentration of LDL, or “bad” cholesterol, in the bloodstream. This equation calculates the concentration of LDL based upon the presence of total cholesterol, HDL and triglyceride levels:
LDL = total cholesterol – HDL – (triglycerides/5)
Although fairly accurate, there are certain factors that could cause your LDL cholesterol levels to be incorrect by using this calculation. These would include triglyceride levels over 400 mg/dL and consuming a meal before having your cholesterol levels -- and LDL cholesterol -- checked.
Direct measurements of LDL are determined without a calculation. Although not as commonly performed, direct LDL measurements can be used in cases where triglycerides are very high. In some cases, these test kits can measure other lipid particles in addition to LDL, such as LDL subtypes and apolipoproteins. However, not everyone needs a more extensive lipid profile tested. Additionally, these tests are usually more expensive than using the Friedewald equation to calculate LDL. Because of this, they are not as widely used.
The National Cholesterol Education Program does not specify which method you should use to measure your LDL cholesterol. However, regardless of the method your healthcare provider chooses to measure your LDL, it should be performed at least once every five years. By knowing your LDL number, you can take the appropriate measures needed to lower it, if needed.
Sources:
Lindsey CC, Graham MR, Johnston TP, et al. A clinical comparison of calculated versus direct measurement of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol level. Pharmacotherapy 2004;24:2.
Nauck M, Warnick GR, Rifai N. Methods for measurement of LDL cholesterol: a critical assessment of direct measurement by homogenous assays versus calculation. Clin Chem 2002;48:236-254.
Dipiro JT, Talbert RL. Pharmacotherapy: A Pathophysiological Approach, 7th ed 2008.
View the original article here
Indirect measurement of LDL is performed by using the Friedewald equation. The Friedewald equation is a mathematical formula developed by William Friedewald to calculate the concentration of LDL, or “bad” cholesterol, in the bloodstream. This equation calculates the concentration of LDL based upon the presence of total cholesterol, HDL and triglyceride levels:
LDL = total cholesterol – HDL – (triglycerides/5)
Although fairly accurate, there are certain factors that could cause your LDL cholesterol levels to be incorrect by using this calculation. These would include triglyceride levels over 400 mg/dL and consuming a meal before having your cholesterol levels -- and LDL cholesterol -- checked.
Direct measurements of LDL are determined without a calculation. Although not as commonly performed, direct LDL measurements can be used in cases where triglycerides are very high. In some cases, these test kits can measure other lipid particles in addition to LDL, such as LDL subtypes and apolipoproteins. However, not everyone needs a more extensive lipid profile tested. Additionally, these tests are usually more expensive than using the Friedewald equation to calculate LDL. Because of this, they are not as widely used.
The National Cholesterol Education Program does not specify which method you should use to measure your LDL cholesterol. However, regardless of the method your healthcare provider chooses to measure your LDL, it should be performed at least once every five years. By knowing your LDL number, you can take the appropriate measures needed to lower it, if needed.
Sources:
Lindsey CC, Graham MR, Johnston TP, et al. A clinical comparison of calculated versus direct measurement of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol level. Pharmacotherapy 2004;24:2.
Nauck M, Warnick GR, Rifai N. Methods for measurement of LDL cholesterol: a critical assessment of direct measurement by homogenous assays versus calculation. Clin Chem 2002;48:236-254.
Dipiro JT, Talbert RL. Pharmacotherapy: A Pathophysiological Approach, 7th ed 2008.
View the original article here
What Are Triglycerides?
High triglycerides - especially when coupled with high LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol) - may place you at risk of having heart disease, but what are they?
Triglycerides are a type of fat, or lipid, that accounts for the majority of fat in our diets. Triglycerides are important because they provide the body the energy it needs to function on a daily basis. If you have an excess of triglycerides in the body, they will be stored as fat.
Triglycerides are either made in the liver or consumed in the diet and then absorbed into the body through the small intestine. Additionally, triglycerides never travel to their destination in the body alone; they attach to a protein and become a lipoprotein referred to as a chylomicron or a very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL). These lipoproteins are not very dense, or heavy. Therefore, along with low-density lipoproteins (LDL), they run the risk of potentially contributing to heart disease.
Elevated levels of triglycerides are also a risk factor for heart disease. According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute: Triglyceride levels should be below 150 mg/dL (1.69 mmol/L). Levels between 150 mg/dL (1.69 mmol/L ) and 199 mg/dL (2.25 mmol/L) are considered borderline high. Levels between 200-499 mg/dL (2.26-5.63 mmol/L) are considered high. Levels above 500 mg/dL (5.64 mmol/L) or considered extremely high. There are primary and secondary causes of hypertriglyceridemia, or high triglyceride levels. Primary causes include various genetic disorders that affect the metabolism of triglycerides and/or cholesterol. Secondary causes are usually due either excessive fat in the diet or an underlying conditions that would include: If any of these risk factors are present, your health care provider will probably recommend that you have a lipid panel performed more frequently (every one or two years as opposed to five years). Having high triglyceride levels may place you at risk for coronary heart disease. However, this fact has not been exclusively proven. When triglyceride levels are high, most often, LDL levels will be high as well. Elevated LDL levels are an important risk factor for heart disease. However, it has not been fully established that high triglyceride levels alone are capable of producing health disease. While there are some studies that have stated that high triglycerides alone are not an independent risk factor for heart disease, there have been other studies that have indicated that triglycerides alone, even with normal LDL and HDL levels, may cause the development of coronary heart disease. Even though the verdict is still out on whether or not high triglyceride levels alone can cause heart disease, it is still important to restore them back to their normal levels. High triglyceride levels are initially treated with a low-fat, low-carbohydrate diet and lifestyle modifications. When this does not work, your health care provider may want to add medication to help lower your triglyceride levels.
Sources
Third Report of the National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP) Expert Panel on Detection, Evaluation, and Treatment of High Blood Cholesterol in Adults (PDF)
Heart Protection Study Collaborative Group. MRC/BHF heart protection study of cholesterol lowering with simvastatin in 20,536 high-risk individuals: a randomized placebo-controlled trial. Lancet 2002;360:7-22.
Pejic RN, Lee DT. Hypertriglyceridemia. J Am Board Fam Med. 2006;19(3):310-316.
View the original article here
Triglycerides are a type of fat, or lipid, that accounts for the majority of fat in our diets. Triglycerides are important because they provide the body the energy it needs to function on a daily basis. If you have an excess of triglycerides in the body, they will be stored as fat.
Triglycerides are either made in the liver or consumed in the diet and then absorbed into the body through the small intestine. Additionally, triglycerides never travel to their destination in the body alone; they attach to a protein and become a lipoprotein referred to as a chylomicron or a very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL). These lipoproteins are not very dense, or heavy. Therefore, along with low-density lipoproteins (LDL), they run the risk of potentially contributing to heart disease.
Elevated levels of triglycerides are also a risk factor for heart disease. According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute: Triglyceride levels should be below 150 mg/dL (1.69 mmol/L). Levels between 150 mg/dL (1.69 mmol/L ) and 199 mg/dL (2.25 mmol/L) are considered borderline high. Levels between 200-499 mg/dL (2.26-5.63 mmol/L) are considered high. Levels above 500 mg/dL (5.64 mmol/L) or considered extremely high. There are primary and secondary causes of hypertriglyceridemia, or high triglyceride levels. Primary causes include various genetic disorders that affect the metabolism of triglycerides and/or cholesterol. Secondary causes are usually due either excessive fat in the diet or an underlying conditions that would include: If any of these risk factors are present, your health care provider will probably recommend that you have a lipid panel performed more frequently (every one or two years as opposed to five years). Having high triglyceride levels may place you at risk for coronary heart disease. However, this fact has not been exclusively proven. When triglyceride levels are high, most often, LDL levels will be high as well. Elevated LDL levels are an important risk factor for heart disease. However, it has not been fully established that high triglyceride levels alone are capable of producing health disease. While there are some studies that have stated that high triglycerides alone are not an independent risk factor for heart disease, there have been other studies that have indicated that triglycerides alone, even with normal LDL and HDL levels, may cause the development of coronary heart disease. Even though the verdict is still out on whether or not high triglyceride levels alone can cause heart disease, it is still important to restore them back to their normal levels. High triglyceride levels are initially treated with a low-fat, low-carbohydrate diet and lifestyle modifications. When this does not work, your health care provider may want to add medication to help lower your triglyceride levels.
Sources
Third Report of the National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP) Expert Panel on Detection, Evaluation, and Treatment of High Blood Cholesterol in Adults (PDF)
Heart Protection Study Collaborative Group. MRC/BHF heart protection study of cholesterol lowering with simvastatin in 20,536 high-risk individuals: a randomized placebo-controlled trial. Lancet 2002;360:7-22.
Pejic RN, Lee DT. Hypertriglyceridemia. J Am Board Fam Med. 2006;19(3):310-316.
View the original article here
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
Mediterranean Diet
The Mediterranean diet is a pattern of food consumption present in countries surrounding the Mediterranean Sea, especially southern Italy and Greece. This diet emphasizes the consumption of lean meats, olive oil, red wine, whole grains, and plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables. Studies have shown that despite the fact that individuals in this region consuming a high amount of fat, they also have a lower incidence of cardiovascular disease. Additionally, individuals consuming this diet have been shown to have lower rates of cancer and chronic diseases. It also appears that the Mediterranean diet may lower cholesterol levels, too. The Mediterranean diet is a balanced diet full of a variety of foods and can be followed easily. Key characteristics of the Mediterranean diet include: One to two glasses of red wine per day for men and one glass of red wine per day for women. Daily consumption of lots of fresh fruits and vegetables. Whole grains used in breads, cereals, couscous and pastas. Weekly consumption of meats, such as poultry, eggs (0 to 4 eggs per week), lamb, veal, and fish and other seafood. Very little red meat is consumed using this diet. Nuts, legumes, and beans are consumed daily. Olive oil is often used alone or in substitution for other oils, butter, and margarine. Cheeses (such as mozzarella and feta) and yogurt.
At a closer glance, the Mediterranean diet closely mirrors the essentials of a low cholesterol diet, encompassing factors such as: High consumption of fiber, due to the high consumption of whole grains, vegetables, and fruits. Low amounts of saturated fat (the “bad” fat) consumed. High consumption of unsaturated fats (the “good” fats) that are found in nuts, fish, and olive oil. Numerous studies have examined the effectiveness of the Mediterranean diet in lowering cholesterol, and these studies appear promising. Most of these studies have focused on the Mediterranean diet, emphasizing the consumption of high amounts of virgin olive oil (up to one liter per week) or nuts (up to 30 grams a day, or two handfuls), or in comparison to a low-fat diet. From these studies, it can be concluded that, for the most part, the Mediterranean diet can modestly lower LDL and triglycerides, as well as raise HDL cholesterol.
Some of these studies suggest that the Mediterranean diet is superior to a regular low-fat diet. In one study it appeared that cholesterol was lowered significantly more than a low-fat diet. On the other hand, another study indicated that there was no difference between a low fat diet and Mediterranean diet in the reduction of heart disease risk. There would need to be more studies to further establish this.
The Mediterranean diet also appears to be beneficial for overall health, too. For instance, this diet has also been studied for its ability to lower blood pressure, lower blood glucose, incidence of asthma, and the prevention of heart disease. Despite the high amounts of unsaturated fat consumed in this diet, many of the studies did not note weight gain in any of its participants.
Sources:
Estruch R, Martinez-Gonzalez MA, Corella D, Salas-Salvado J, Ruiz-Gutierrez V, Covas MI, Fiol M, Gomez-Gracia E, Lopez-Sabater MC, Vinyoles E, Aros F, Conde M, Lahoz C, Lapetra J, Saez G, Ros E; PREDIMED Study Investigators. "Effects of a Mediterranean-style diet on cardiovascular risk factors: a randomized trial." Ann Intern Med. 2006 Jul 4;145(1):1-11.
Kris-Etherton P, Eckel RH, Howard BV, et al. Lyon Diet Heart Study : Benefits of a Mediterranean-Style, National Cholesterol Education Program/American Heart Association Dietary Pattern on Cardiovascular Disease Step I. Circulation 2001 (103): 1823-1825.
Michalsen A, Lehmann N, Pithan C. Mediterranean diet has no effect on markers of inflammation and metabolic risk factors in patients with coronary artery disease. Eur J Clin Nutr. 2006 Apr;60(4):478-85.
Rolfes SR, Whitney E. Understanding Nutrition, 3rd ed 2005.
View the original article here
At a closer glance, the Mediterranean diet closely mirrors the essentials of a low cholesterol diet, encompassing factors such as: High consumption of fiber, due to the high consumption of whole grains, vegetables, and fruits. Low amounts of saturated fat (the “bad” fat) consumed. High consumption of unsaturated fats (the “good” fats) that are found in nuts, fish, and olive oil. Numerous studies have examined the effectiveness of the Mediterranean diet in lowering cholesterol, and these studies appear promising. Most of these studies have focused on the Mediterranean diet, emphasizing the consumption of high amounts of virgin olive oil (up to one liter per week) or nuts (up to 30 grams a day, or two handfuls), or in comparison to a low-fat diet. From these studies, it can be concluded that, for the most part, the Mediterranean diet can modestly lower LDL and triglycerides, as well as raise HDL cholesterol.
Some of these studies suggest that the Mediterranean diet is superior to a regular low-fat diet. In one study it appeared that cholesterol was lowered significantly more than a low-fat diet. On the other hand, another study indicated that there was no difference between a low fat diet and Mediterranean diet in the reduction of heart disease risk. There would need to be more studies to further establish this.
The Mediterranean diet also appears to be beneficial for overall health, too. For instance, this diet has also been studied for its ability to lower blood pressure, lower blood glucose, incidence of asthma, and the prevention of heart disease. Despite the high amounts of unsaturated fat consumed in this diet, many of the studies did not note weight gain in any of its participants.
Sources:
Estruch R, Martinez-Gonzalez MA, Corella D, Salas-Salvado J, Ruiz-Gutierrez V, Covas MI, Fiol M, Gomez-Gracia E, Lopez-Sabater MC, Vinyoles E, Aros F, Conde M, Lahoz C, Lapetra J, Saez G, Ros E; PREDIMED Study Investigators. "Effects of a Mediterranean-style diet on cardiovascular risk factors: a randomized trial." Ann Intern Med. 2006 Jul 4;145(1):1-11.
Kris-Etherton P, Eckel RH, Howard BV, et al. Lyon Diet Heart Study : Benefits of a Mediterranean-Style, National Cholesterol Education Program/American Heart Association Dietary Pattern on Cardiovascular Disease Step I. Circulation 2001 (103): 1823-1825.
Michalsen A, Lehmann N, Pithan C. Mediterranean diet has no effect on markers of inflammation and metabolic risk factors in patients with coronary artery disease. Eur J Clin Nutr. 2006 Apr;60(4):478-85.
Rolfes SR, Whitney E. Understanding Nutrition, 3rd ed 2005.
View the original article here
Fiber Supplements
Answer: Foods containing soluble fiber are very useful in lowering your “bad” cholesterol (LDL), but can fiber supplements do the same thing?
Soluble fiber can be found in a variety of foods, including whole grains, legumes, fruits and vegetables. But when you are living a busy lifestyle, and opt for quick snacks instead of whole grains and veggies, taking a fiber supplement might be a tempting thought.
You’ve probably seen a lot of these fiber supplements in the store already. These products are under different names and contain different types of soluble fiber. The following ingredients are forms of soluble fiber: psyllium (Konsyl, Metamucil, Fiberall) pectin (various natural products) polycarbophil (Fibercon) methylcellulose (Citrucel) Just because you are taking the recommended amount of a fiber supplement, it shouldn’t exclude you from following a healthy, balanced diet. In fact, it has been shown that fiber supplements are not as helpful to you if you are not already following a low-fat diet. Additionally, fiber supplements do not contain the vitamins and other nutrients that whole grains, fruits, and vegetables can provide.
If you decide that a fiber supplement is right for you, remember that the recommended intake by the National Cholesterol Education Program is between 10 and 25 grams of soluble fiber content. Be sure to drink plenty of water so that you avoid constipation.
Sources:
Rolfes SR, Whitney E. Understanding Nutrition, 3rd ed 2005.
Brown L, Rosner B, Willett WW, et al. Cholesterol-lowering effects of dietary fiber: a meta-analysis. Am J Clin Nutr 1999; 69:30-42.
Third Report of the National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP) Expert Panel on Detection, Evaluation, and Treatment of High Blood Cholesterol in Adults (PDF), July 2004, The National Institutes of Heath: The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute.
View the original article here
Soluble fiber can be found in a variety of foods, including whole grains, legumes, fruits and vegetables. But when you are living a busy lifestyle, and opt for quick snacks instead of whole grains and veggies, taking a fiber supplement might be a tempting thought.
You’ve probably seen a lot of these fiber supplements in the store already. These products are under different names and contain different types of soluble fiber. The following ingredients are forms of soluble fiber: psyllium (Konsyl, Metamucil, Fiberall) pectin (various natural products) polycarbophil (Fibercon) methylcellulose (Citrucel) Just because you are taking the recommended amount of a fiber supplement, it shouldn’t exclude you from following a healthy, balanced diet. In fact, it has been shown that fiber supplements are not as helpful to you if you are not already following a low-fat diet. Additionally, fiber supplements do not contain the vitamins and other nutrients that whole grains, fruits, and vegetables can provide.
If you decide that a fiber supplement is right for you, remember that the recommended intake by the National Cholesterol Education Program is between 10 and 25 grams of soluble fiber content. Be sure to drink plenty of water so that you avoid constipation.
Sources:
Rolfes SR, Whitney E. Understanding Nutrition, 3rd ed 2005.
Brown L, Rosner B, Willett WW, et al. Cholesterol-lowering effects of dietary fiber: a meta-analysis. Am J Clin Nutr 1999; 69:30-42.
Third Report of the National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP) Expert Panel on Detection, Evaluation, and Treatment of High Blood Cholesterol in Adults (PDF), July 2004, The National Institutes of Heath: The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute.
View the original article here
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
Sample Low Cholesterol 1800-C
Watching your calories, as well as your fat and cholesterol intake, is part of managing your cholesterol through diet. This 1800-calorie meal plan can help make doing this easy.
You can also always consult your physician and/or a dietitian for guidance.
Enjoy!
Beverage: 1 cup (8oz) decaffeinated coffee with 2 oz skim milk
1 serving Low-fat Granola Parfait
Beverage: 1 cup (8oz lemon or orange flavored seltzer)
2 servings Spring Vegetable Soup
1 serving Tuna and Spinach Salad
1 whole wheat dinner roll (1oz, 2'' square)
2 tsp stenol/phytosterol or light olive oil-based spread
1 medium apple
2 tbsp hummus
1 cup celery sticks, raw
Beverage: 1 cup (8oz) decaffeinated flavored iced tea
1 serving Zesty Rice and Bean Salad
1 serving Low-fat Chicken Enchiladas
1 serving Quick and Easy Strawberry Shortcake
Optional beverage: 1 glass of red wine*
Calories 1800, Calories from Fat 248 , Total Fat 31.2g, Cholesterol 102 mg, Sodium 2,015 mg, Carbohydrate 289 g, Fiber 32.5 g, Protein 89.8 g
One glass of red wine (5 oz serving) contributes an additional: Calories 127, Calories from Fat 0, Total Fat 0g (sat 0.g), Cholesterol 0mg, Sodium 0 mg, Carbohydrate 5.5g, Fiber 0g, Protein 0.1g.
*Be certain to ask your doctor if alcohol is permitted on your diet plan and with your current medication regimen. Pregnant or nursing women should completely abstain from alcohol.
This information does not replace the advice of your doctor.
One-Pot Stew Recipes for Your Low Cholesterol Diet
It's that time of the year again where the weather begins to turn cold and blistering. At times like these, a warm, savory soup or stew would make a perfect lunch or dinner treat. These one-pot recipes are chock-full of veggies and lean meats that won't terribly increase your cholesterol levels. Additionally, these delicious creations are pretty easy to make -- a perfect meal if you would like a dish that is tasty and effortless.
Monday, December 12, 2011
What Is Ischemia?
Answer: Ischemia is any condition that prevents blood from reaching organs and tissues of the body. Blood contains oxygen and many nutrients that are vital for proper function of tissues and organs. Without these components, these tissues will begin to die.
Ischemia can affect any organ or area of tissue in the body, including the heart, the brain, and the legs. Ischemia to these areas of the body could cause ischemic heart disease, dementia, and peripheral vascular disease, respectively.
Surprisingly, cholesterol can play an important role in producing ischemia. When the inner walls of arteries become inflamed, cholesterol and other fats can build up, causing the formation of a thick, waxy plaque through a process called atherosclerosis. As the atherosclerotic plaque thickens, it begins to reduce -- or even obstruct -- blood flow to affected areas of the body, including the heart, brain, and other organs.
When ischemia first begins to develop, you may not experience any symptoms. However, as time progresses, the symptoms you may experience will depend on the area where ischemia is located. Symptoms could include:
Dizziness, fainting, and dementia (for ischemia in vessels supplying the brain)Chest pain, fatigue after slight exertion, and shortness of breath (for ischemia in vessels supplying the heart)Intermittent claudication, leg weakness, numbness or tingling of the legs, and cuts on the limbs do not easily heal (for ischemia in vessels supplying the limbs)Since many other factors, such as low blood pressure, injury, and blood clots, can also produce ischemia, there is no way to totally prevent it. However, by keeping your cholesterol levels within the normal range, you can lower your risk of developing ischemia.
There are many things you can do to help keep your cholesterol levels within a normal range, including:
Getting your cholesterol checked regularlyConsuming a healthy dietModerate exerciseTaking your cholesterol-lowering medications consistently, if prescribedSources:
Fauci AC, Kasper DL, Longo DL et al. Harrison’s Principles of Internal Medicine. 17th edition, 2008.
Packing Your Heart-Healthy Lunch for Work
If you have a busy work schedule, what you'll have for lunch may not enter your mind until your lunch break approaches. By that time, your options are either a nearby restaurant, the cafeteria downstairs or the snack machine. All of these options may dish out foods that are loaded in fat and calories, which could be a recipe for weight gain and high cholesterol levels. If you are following a cholesterol-lowering diet, preparing healthy meals for your lunch time break does not have to be time consuming. Try these healthy tips that will help you to pack a cholesterol-friendly, delicious lunch. Not only does planning ahead save you time and money -- it will also help you to keep your cholesterol levels on track.
If you need a little help thinking of some tasty lunch ideas, try these healthy recipes:
Photo credit: Steve Zazeski, stock.xchg
Sunday, December 11, 2011
What Is a CHD Risk Equivalent?
Definition: A CHD risk equivalent, otherwise known as a coronary heart disease equivalent, is a condition that places you at high risk for experiencing a cardiac event, such as a heart attack. In fact, having one or more of these conditions may place you at the same risk of having a cardiac event as someone who has already experienced one.
The following conditions are considered CHD risk equivalents:
While there are only a few CHD risk equivalents, these should be carefully monitored and controlled. Cholesterol levels are also monitored -- especially since high LDL cholesterol levels could occur in many of these conditions and can contribute to the formation of atherosclerosis. if(zSbLWhat Is Oxidized LDL?
Answer: LDL cholesterol, which is known as your "bad" cholesterol, becomes even more dangerous when it is oxidized. Oxidized LDL can produce inflammation in arteries that supply blood to your organs and other tissues, thus promoting atherosclerosis and increasing your risk of having a heart attack or stroke. The oxidation of LDL occurs when the LDL particles react with free radicals. The oxidized LDL itself then becomes more reactive with the surrounding tissues, which can produce tissue damage. Some of the things that appear to increase levels of oxidized LDL include consuming a diet that is high in trans fats, smoking, poorly controlled diabetes or metabolic syndrome.
Once LDL becomes oxidized, it goes directly within the inner-lining (endothelium) of any artery in the body, including the carotid artery, coronary artery or the arteries that supply your legs and arms with blood. Once there, it encourages the accumulation of inflammatory cells, such as macrophage, and platelets at the site of the vessel and promotes their adhesion to the damaged area. More macrophages, cholesterol and other lipids begin to accumulate at the site, forming a plaque that begins to grow thicker. Over time, this can slow -- or completely restrict -- the amount of blood flow that travels to one or more areas of the body. This can result in a variety of health conditions, including coronary heart disease, peripheral vascular disease or dementia.
There are many things you can do to prevent the formation of oxidized LDL, and many of them involve making a few changes to your everyday habits to lower your LDL cholesterol, such as: Stop smoking. Exclude trans fats from your diet, such as pastries, deep fried foods and foods cooked with lard. Add fruits and vegetables to your diet. Not only do they contain plenty of nutrients and are low in fat, they also possess antioxidants that may help to reduce the oxidation of LDL. If you have been diagnosed with diabetes or metabolic syndrome, get these conditions under control. This would include losing weight, eating healthy and exercising. In some cases, you may need medication to help lower your cholesterol. Some of these cholesterol-lowering medications, such as statins, also possess anti-inflammatory properties that can lower your cholesterol and prevent the inflammation that helps to establish the formation of atherosclerosis.Sources:
Dipiro JT, Talbert RL. Pharmacotherapy: A Pathophysiological Approach, 6th ed 2005.
Fauci AC, Kasper DL, Longo DL et al. Harrison’s Principles of Internal Medicine. 17th edition, 2008.
Saturday, December 10, 2011
What Are Lean Meats?
Question: What Does the Word "Lean" Mean About the Meat I Consume?Lean meats can provide a great option for obtaining the protein you need in your diet without the associated fat. But what does the word "lean" really mean?Answer: You may have been diagnosed with high cholesterol, but parting with your meat has been hard on you. Meat has plenty of protein, but some meat can be relatively fatty, too. Cutting fat out of the meat you eat is a viable option to lower its fat content, but this can also be a time-consuming task if the meat you are eating is particularly fatty.
Another good option for meat-eaters trying to watch the amount of fat content in your diet is to consume “lean” meats. “Lean” and “extra lean” are nutritional statements designated by the Food and Drug Administration. However, not all meats can be labeled as “lean.” These are the following requirements that meats need to be designated as “lean” or “extra lean”: Lean – Meats with this designation should have less than 10 grams of total fat, 4.5 grams of saturated fat and trans fats, and 95 mg of cholesterol in each 100 gram serving of meat. Extra Lean – Meats with this designation should contain less than 5 g of total fat. Of this total fat, these meats should also contain less than 2 grams of saturated fat and trans fats, and 95 mg of cholesterol per serving (about 100 grams). Additionally, some meats are naturally leaner than others. You could substitute. These include poultry, veal and lamb.
Source:
Rolfes SR, Whitney E. Understanding Nutrition, 3rd ed 2005.
if(zSbLWelchol Information
Welchol (colesevelam) is a cholesterol-lowering medication that belongs to the bile acid resin class of drugs. Studies have shown that Welchol mainly lowers LDL cholesterol by 15 to 30% and slightly raises HDL by 3 to 5%. Welchol does not appear to affect triglycerides and, in some cases, may actually raise triglycerides if taken for a prolonged amount of time.The following drugs may interact with Welchol by decreasing the amount of the medication absorbed into your blood. As a rule, it is probably a good idea not to take any other medications or supplements two hours before or six hours after taking any bile acid resin drug, such as Welchol. If you are required to take one of the drugs or supplements listed below, your healthcare provider may need to adjust your dose or the time you take it, monitor you more closely for side effects, or discontinue your use of it all together: This is a brief, non-inclusive overview of Welchol. It should not replace the information provided by your healthcare provider or the manufacturer of this drug.
Sources:
Dipiro JT, Talbert RL. Pharmacotherapy: A Pathophysiological Approach, 6th ed 2005.
Lacy CF, Armstrong LL, Goldman MP, et al. Lexicomp's Drug Information Handbook, 15th ed 2007.
Friday, December 9, 2011
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Ways to Save on Your Cholesterol-Lowering Medications
Whether you've just started taking cholesterol-lowering medication -- or have been on them for awhile -- you know that you're monthly meds can be quite pricey. And the price can increase -- especially if you have other expenses or are taking other medications. Although it may be tempting to stop taking your cholesterol drugs and shift your money to more exciting things, persistently high cholesterol levels can cost you even more money if not addressed long-term -- including hospital costs from a heart attack or stroke, or even your life.
Here are some helpful tips that can save you money on your cholesterol medications -- or on other meds, too:
Photo credit: Stone Photos, istockphoto
Thursday, December 8, 2011
Tomatoes & Cholesterol
There are many health benefits of tomatoes and there is one more that could possibly be added to the list -- tomatoes lower cholesterol. While there is considerable debate over whether or not they are considered to be a fruit or a vegetable, tomatoes offer a delicious compliment to any dish –- from salads to main courses. However, there is considerable evidence that tomatoes can provide a variety of health benefits, too. Tomatoes contain many antioxidants, including a chemical called lycopene. There has been a lot of research investigating tomatoes and the chemicals contained in them like lycopene. From these studies, tomatoes have been shown to possess a vast array of healthy benefits, including macular degeneration and certain cancers. Studies have also proven that tomatoes may provide healthy effects on your cholesterol. The studies examining the effects of tomato products on cholesterol are small and looked at raw tomatoes, or a combination of tomato paste and tomato juice. One of the chemicals in tomatoes, lycopene, has had the most research associated with it and it is thought to be a major contributor to the healthy benefits provided by tomatoes. From these studies seen in both animals and humans, it has been found that HDL cholesterol levels were increased by at least 15%. The studies examining the effects of tomatoes on LDL cholesterol and triglycerides vary –- some studies indicate a slight decrease in these lipids (by an average of 8%), whereas other studies did not detect a significant drop in LDL or triglycerides.
Another surprising finding was that the lycopene in the tomatoes –- as well as probably other antioxidants in tomatoes –- reduced the presence of oxidized LDL. When LDL becomes oxidized, it can contribute to the formation of plaque on the walls of arteries.
The studies that examined the effects of tomatoes and/or lycopene didn’t require too many tomatoes to achieve this effect. In fact, these studies suggest that you would need two medium sized tomatoes or a combination of 14 ounces of tomato juice and two tablespoons of ketchup to affect your cholesterol.Tomatoes are a healthy food that contains a variety of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. While a small number of studies suggest that tomatoes lower cholesterol levels, this should not be the only thing you rely on in your plan to lower cholesterol.
Sources:
Periago MJ, Jacob K, Boehm V et al. Influence of lycopene and vitamin C from tomato juice on biomarker of oxidative stress and inflammation. Br J Nutr 2008; 99:137-146.
Silaste ML, Alfthan G, Aro A et al. Tomato juice decreases LDL cholesterol levels and increases LDL resistence ot oxidation. Br J Nutr 2007;98:1251-1258.
Blum A, Merei M, Karem A et al. Effects of tomatoes on the lipid profile. Clin Invest Med 2006; 29:298-300.
Blum A, Monir M, Wirsansky I, et al. The beneficial effects of tomatoes. Eur J Intern Med 2005;16:402-404.
Ways to Prepare a Healthy, Low-Cholesterol Soup
It's starting to get a little colder outside, which makes this the perfect weather for a warm, savory soup. Although there are many ingredients you can throw into your soup,? some of these may not be necessarily the best for you if you're trying to watch your cholesterol levels. This article will show you which foods to add -- and which ones you should use sparingly -- in your heart-healthy soup. So, add your favorite combination of veggies, spices, and other foods to create a dish that will keep you warm -- and your cholesterol levels healthy. You can also make your favorite soups in bulk and store them in the freezer on days when you just don't feel like cooking.
Looking for more ideas? Try some of these tasty, cholesterol-friendly soups for your next meal:
Photo credit: DNY59, istockphoto
New Recommendations for Cholesterol Screening in Children Announced
Previously thought as something older people get, high cholesterol is being seen more and more in children. At the American Heart Association conference over the weekend, the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute announced the release of new guidelines recommending that the screening of children for high cholesterol beginning at nine years of age. Previously, screening in young children was only recommended if they had a strong history of heart disease or high cholesterol, or if their medical history was not known.
The guidelines were developed due to previously conducted studies that suggested the damage leading up to heart disease in adults may begin as early as childhood. Their guidelines not only include recommendations on screening and management of high cholesterol in kids, but also address other medical conditions that also pose as cardiovascular risk factors, including diabetes, high blood pressure, and obesity.
These recommendations were published in the journal, Pediatrics., on Friday.
Ways you can help to keep your child's heart healthy:
Photo credit: Nate Maxfield, istockphoto
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Wednesday, December 7, 2011
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Cholesterol Levels And Heart Disease Biomarkers In Diabetics Improved By Vitamin D-Fortified Yoghurt
Main Category: Diabetes
Also Included In: Nutrition / Diet; Cholesterol; Heart Disease
Article Date: 27 Nov 2011 - 0:00 PST
Visit our diabetes section for the latest news on this subject. Regular consumption of vitamin D-fortified yogurt drink (Doogh) improved endothelial biomarkers in subjects with type 2 diabetes: A randomized double-blind clinical trial Sakineh Shab-Bidar, Tirang R Neyestani, Abolghassem Djazayery, Mohammad-Reza Eshraghian, Anahita Houshiarrad, A'azam Gharavi, Ali Kalayi, Nastaran Shariatzadeh, Malihe Zahedirad, Niloufar Khalaji and Homa Haidari BMC Medicine (in press)
BioMed Central Please use one of the following formats to cite this article in your essay, paper or report:
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Also Included In: Nutrition / Diet; Cholesterol; Heart Disease
Article Date: 27 Nov 2011 - 0:00 PST
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People with diabetes are known to have an increased risk of heart disease. New research published in BioMed Central's open access journal BMC Medicine shows that regular consumption of a vitamin D-fortified yoghurt drink improves cholesterol levels and biomarkers of endothelial dysfunction, a precursor of heart disease, in diabetics.
Not having enough vitamin D affects the inner lining of blood vessels (endothelial cells) eventually leading to atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease. Endothelial dysfunction can be measured by the increased levels of a set of biomarkers, such as serum endothelin-1, E-Selectin and MMP-9. In a double-blind trial, researchers from Tehran investigated the effect of vitamin D on the glycemic status, cholesterol levels and endothelial biomarkers of diabetics. Patients were given either a plain yoghurt drink (Doogh) or the same drink fortified with vitamin D twice a day for 12 weeks.
Researchers from the National Research Institute and Faculty of Nutrition and Food Technology had previously shown that a vitamin D-fortified yoghurt drink could improve the glycemic status of people with type 2 diabetes. In collaboration with Tehran University of Medical Sciences their new trial showed that vitamin D improved the fasting glucose, insulin, QUICK1 (a measure of insulin resistance), and found some improvement in long term HbA1c.
Dr Neyestani explained, "The patients who had taken the vitamin D yoghurt also had improved cholesterol levels with lower total cholesterol and LDL levels and an increase in HDL. All the improvements in cholesterol seemed to be due to the reduction in insulin resistance. The biomarkers of endothelial dysfunction, serum endothelin-1, E-Selectin and MMP-9, levels were also lower for the patients taking vitamin D."
Prof Djazayery continued, "Most of our patients were deficient in vitamin D at the start of the trial but the fortified yoghurt drink elevated most of their levels to normal. However, even amongst those who took the vitamin D supplement, some people (about 5%) remained deficient at the end of the 12 weeks. These people did not show the same improvements. Nevertheless for most diabetics with vitamin D deficiency this is an easy way to improve their outcome."
Article adapted by Medical News Today from original press release. Click 'references' tab above for source.Visit our diabetes section for the latest news on this subject. Regular consumption of vitamin D-fortified yogurt drink (Doogh) improved endothelial biomarkers in subjects with type 2 diabetes: A randomized double-blind clinical trial Sakineh Shab-Bidar, Tirang R Neyestani, Abolghassem Djazayery, Mohammad-Reza Eshraghian, Anahita Houshiarrad, A'azam Gharavi, Ali Kalayi, Nastaran Shariatzadeh, Malihe Zahedirad, Niloufar Khalaji and Homa Haidari BMC Medicine (in press)
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Cholesterol-Lowering Lipitor: FDA Okays First Generic Version
Featured Article
Main Category: Cholesterol
Also Included In: Regulatory Affairs / Drug Approvals
Article Date: 01 Dec 2011 - 3:00 PST
4 Dec. 2011. APA
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(Hover over the stars then click to rate) posted by Greg S. on 1 Dec 2011 at 5:15 am
posted by Bart L. Kare on 1 Dec 2011 at 6:53 am
posted by Brian on 1 Dec 2011 at 11:08 am
Main Category: Cholesterol
Also Included In: Regulatory Affairs / Drug Approvals
Article Date: 01 Dec 2011 - 3:00 PST
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The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced on Wednesday that it has approved the first generic version of the world's top-selling medicine, the cholesterol-lowering drug Lipitor (atorvastatin), currently marketed by Pfizer Inc.
Ranbaxy Laboratories Limited, India's largest pharmaceutical company, has gained FDA approval to make generic atorvastatin calcium tablets in 10 milligram, 20 mg, 40 mg, and 80 mg strengths. The tablets will be made by Ohm Laboratories in New Brunswick, New Jersey, says the FDA.
A statement from Raxbaxy says Ranbaxy Pharmaceuticals Inc, a wholly owned subsidiary of Ranbaxy Laboratories Ltd, will be marketing the generic atorvastatin in the US.
Janet Woodcock, director of the FDA's Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, told the press the agency was "working very hard" to ensure patients get generic drugs as fast as the law will permit:
"This medication is widely used by people who must manage their high cholesterol over time, so it is important to have affordable treatment options," said Woodcock.
The FDA notes that:
"Generic drugs approved by FDA have the same high quality and strength as brand-name drugs. The generic manufacturing and packaging sites must pass the same quality standards as those of brand-name drugs."
People with high cholesterol usually have a greater chance of developing heart disease. High cholesterol comes with no signs or symptoms, so many people don't know they have it.
Not all cholesterol is bad. There are three types worth noting for health reasons: high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and triglycerides.
HDL, the so-called "good" cholesterol, actually helps prevent cholesterol building up on the insides of our arteries. LDL, the so-called "bad" cholesterol, is the one that sticks to artery walls, leading to build up which obstructs blood flow and increases the risk of heart attack. Triglycerides are linked to hardening of the arteries.
Atorvastatin, like other statins, lowers cholesterol in the body by blocking an enzyme produced by the liver. It is recommended for use with a low fat diet that lowers circulating LDL cholesterol and triglycerides. However, the drug also raises HDL cholesterol, thus producing a double effect.
Trials show that in people with heart disease, or risk factors for heart disease, atorvastatin reduces the risk of heart attacks, strokes, certain types of heart surgery and chest pains. Risk factors for heart disease include age, low HDL, smoking, high blood pressure and family history of early heart disease.
The most common side effects, found in trials for Lipitor, are inflammation of the nasal passages, pains in the joints, diarrhea, and urinary tract infection.
Written by Catharine Paddock PhD
Copyright: Medical News Today
Not to be reproduced without permission of Medical News Today
MLA
4 Dec. 2011.
Please note: If no author information is provided, the source is cited instead.
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(Hover over the stars then click to rate) posted by Greg S. on 1 Dec 2011 at 5:15 am
I never thought Lipitor would go generic since the pharmaceutical industry lobbies Congress so hard. Hay! Maybe some people that need a drug of this type can now afford it? It could happen!
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posted by Bart L. Kare on 1 Dec 2011 at 6:53 am
At least in ’09, Lipitor was the second most prescribed drug on the market. It’s nice that the consumer finally has a generic option. If you are struggling to pay for your meds, make sure to ask your doctor or pharmacist if there might be a generic option for you. There are more than people think.
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posted by Brian on 1 Dec 2011 at 11:08 am
For all those trumpeting that there will FINALLY be an affordable version of atorvastatin, consider this: genetic atorvastatin will now cost $10-$15 per month. Compare that with the branded version (Lipitor) that was usually $25 per month. However, now patients will be getting a version that is NOT held to the same standards of quality control as the branded version (I don't care what this article says) and patients will no longer be able to get samples from their physicians (usually a month or 2 worth).
Hope thats worth saving $8-$10 per month!
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