Love2Read
08-16-2007, 11:46 AM
If you have, can I ask how you did it and how much your numbers dropped? I have high cholesterol and the Dr. is giving me 8 weeks to see if I can lower the numbers on my own.
Thanks!
Thanks!
Sponsor
Guy1_USA
08-16-2007, 01:43 PM
You never know... but I doubt most can as your liver makes the majority of chlesterol your body needs... if not 100% of the cholesterol. The issue is when it makes too much.
I cut out all cholesterol and animal fat from my diet for 9 months... and my cholesterol went through the roof.
You should still eat properly and exercise, but don't be surprised if the only result is a healthier person that still has high cholesterol.
I cut out all cholesterol and animal fat from my diet for 9 months... and my cholesterol went through the roof.
You should still eat properly and exercise, but don't be surprised if the only result is a healthier person that still has high cholesterol.
boubou
08-16-2007, 02:36 PM
Same here, I've changed my diet to heart healthy and lots of exercise as well as taking phytosterols, red yeast rice, coQ10, garlick, multi, fish oil, green tea.
I'm giving all I can and see the results. It's been three weeks now and I've lost 8 lbs :)
I need to loose another 15...hope it all helps!
I'm giving all I can and see the results. It's been three weeks now and I've lost 8 lbs :)
I need to loose another 15...hope it all helps!
Mikedondo
08-16-2007, 03:41 PM
Don't expect too much of a drop from dieting. I am not obese but lost 20 lbs, TC went from 260 to 230.
boubou
08-16-2007, 04:39 PM
given the dietary changes, more exercise, weight loss and supplement I am taking, how much should my cholesterol drop over time?
funnyesq
08-16-2007, 06:50 PM
Mine went down with Niacin (no flush)...but consult a doctor because too much can wreck havoc with the liver. I take 1500 mg a day. Plus the Red Yeast Rice extract, Fish Oil and some other stuff. LDL dropped about 30 points or 20% HDL still same which is relatively high so I'm good with ratios.
boubou
08-16-2007, 08:02 PM
Arrrggg.. I hope this works. My cholesterol was 232 and I didn't change a thing :( 16 months ago and shot up to 320 (along with an extra 10 lbs) :mad:
if it all that doesn't work, I guess I'll try niacin added to the concoction and if that fails...meds for me :(
if it all that doesn't work, I guess I'll try niacin added to the concoction and if that fails...meds for me :(
Guy1_USA
08-16-2007, 11:53 PM
Don't confuse niacin with not being a medication. Niacin in high doses, even with OTC niacin, is a medication.
If you have insurance, I suggest you try Niaspan. I think you will have better luck with reducing side effects. Some of the anti Niaspan folks on this board are against Niaspan due to cost (price)... not due to product and how well it works.
If you have insurance, I suggest you try Niaspan. I think you will have better luck with reducing side effects. Some of the anti Niaspan folks on this board are against Niaspan due to cost (price)... not due to product and how well it works.
boubou
08-17-2007, 07:56 AM
I am confused, some here say that diet and exercise won't change much since cholesterol is produced mostly by the liver...then why bother?
I am not taking this cavalier attitude of just giving in but I'd like to know that loosing the weight, a good diet and exercise as well as the supplement will help considerably. I'm wondering if I should not just add niacin now (on top of phytosterols, ryr and fish oil that I'm already taking) or wait until the next blood test, see where things are.
I am not taking this cavalier attitude of just giving in but I'd like to know that loosing the weight, a good diet and exercise as well as the supplement will help considerably. I'm wondering if I should not just add niacin now (on top of phytosterols, ryr and fish oil that I'm already taking) or wait until the next blood test, see where things are.
flowergirl2day
08-17-2007, 09:59 AM
Boubou,
(on top of phytosterols, ryr and fish oil that I'm already taking)
Where did you find the red yeast rice? I was told at the health food stores it's not available in Canada when I went looking for it.
FG
(on top of phytosterols, ryr and fish oil that I'm already taking)
Where did you find the red yeast rice? I was told at the health food stores it's not available in Canada when I went looking for it.
FG
Lenin
08-17-2007, 11:39 AM
U.S. FDA has just issued a WARNING about several Chinese red yeast rice products.
As far as an outright BAN, all I can find is that Germany bans its sale.
I don't think Canada does though. In fact, while RYR was banned in the USA, many people ordered it from Canada.
As far as an outright BAN, all I can find is that Germany bans its sale.
I don't think Canada does though. In fact, while RYR was banned in the USA, many people ordered it from Canada.
puhonien11
08-17-2007, 11:48 AM
I just recently dropped my Total Cholesterol by 82 in just two months through diet and exercise.
Diet-wise I'm doing the typical cholesterol lowering diet: high fiber, as much fresh vegetables and fruit as possible, no trans fat, no dairy, etc.
Supplements taken are: fish oil, "Fiber Blend" (from the Vitamin Shoppe)
I joined a gym where I do cardio for 40 minutes three days a week and arm/chest/ab weight training on machines also on two of those days.
Original Results: HDL-50 LDL-174 Tri-93 TC-243
After 2 months: HDL-44 LDL-108 Tri-47 TC-161
I can definitely say it's worth a try!
Diet-wise I'm doing the typical cholesterol lowering diet: high fiber, as much fresh vegetables and fruit as possible, no trans fat, no dairy, etc.
Supplements taken are: fish oil, "Fiber Blend" (from the Vitamin Shoppe)
I joined a gym where I do cardio for 40 minutes three days a week and arm/chest/ab weight training on machines also on two of those days.
Original Results: HDL-50 LDL-174 Tri-93 TC-243
After 2 months: HDL-44 LDL-108 Tri-47 TC-161
I can definitely say it's worth a try!
Guy1_USA
08-17-2007, 02:02 PM
I am not taking this cavalier attitude of just giving in but I'd like to know that loosing the weight, a good diet and exercise as well as the supplement will help considerably. I'm wondering if I should not just add niacin now (on top of phytosterols, ryr and fish oil that I'm already taking) or wait until the next blood test, see where things are.
You sound like me when I was first diagnosed with high cholesterol.
Everyone is sooooo different when it come this health issue. You may be one of the lucky people where diet and exercise work. I don't think there are many in this category, however.
So... I'm going to say to you what my Doctor said to me when I took your attitude of dealing with high cholesterol:
"What do you think you are going to do the rest of your life... eat food you really don't like... ignore parties and situations because of your cholesterol...? Do you think you are going to exercise dutifully the rest of your life...?
The answer is No! You may be able to keep up the regimine for 6 months to a year, but you will faulter... you will want a piece of pizza... you will want a BBQ burger or BBQ'd ribs... you will want Prime rib at Christmas... if you haven't been previously exercising daily, you will get tired of constant exercise. To think you can give up all the foods you like and exercise for the rest of your life is just plain not realistic.
You are way more likely to succeed in lowering your cholesterol by using a medication."
How's that for a frank talk from my Doctor...? I have to say after 16 years of dealing with high cholesterol, he is right on the money. Wayyyy difficult to eat correctly everyday... unless you are a Munk hidden away on a mountain top. Same with execise if fitness was not already your lifestyle.
Having given you my Doctor's spiel, here is some of my experiences during my 16 years of trying to control my cholesterol.
My experience with low fat diets is that my cholesterol went through the roof. I ate zero animal fat for 9 months.
The problem with low fat is you end up eating a whole lot of carbs. And carbs can really raise your triglycerides and LDL.
I have had much better luck on diets low in carbs. Fat didn't make a difference... and still doesn't. I don't eat too much red meat... I eat mostly chicken... always have. That's another reason my Doctor wanted to put me on meds... I've always eaten fresh food made at home and not too much fat.
Exercise is good for your health regardless... and may help a tad... but in my case it didn't help much. The problem is that cholesterol is made in the liver... and in my case, it appears that nearly 100% of the cholesterol in my blood is produced by my liver, so low fat doesn't help me directly with lowering my cholesterol.
I did Atkins... low carbs... which was great because I lost a lot of weight and my HDL improved 25%. But my overall cholesterol numbers were still unacceptable. But still much better than the low-fat diet I did.
Statins work fairly well, but I did not ever like the side effects. I tried three different statins for a couple years each. One of the statins I was taking was removed from the market because it was killing folks. I won't ever consider statins again as a form of treatment.
I tried a prescription Bile acid sequestrants... but you had to take about 16 pills a day at intervals. After a week of this, I knew I wouldn't continue for the rest of my life with a regimine like this, so I stopped taking them.
The latest med I started about a year ago is Niaspan... it's extended release niacin... which is just vitamin B-3. All my cholesterol numbers dropped about 50% form taking Niaspan, so now I'm a Niaspan advocate. For the first time in 16 years my cholesterol numbers are in the "normal" range.
So... my short answer is, yes, eat and exercise the best you can... but also don't deprive yourself too much... eat some of the foods you have grown to enjoy, too. But I would look further into Niaspan... to see if that would work for you, and if you can afford it or have insurance for it. You take it once a day at bedtime. And it's just vitamin B-3. Not everyone goes without side effects on Niaspan either. Some find the flushing intollerable, others like me, no issues at all. But you will never know until you try it.
Good luck. :)
You sound like me when I was first diagnosed with high cholesterol.
Everyone is sooooo different when it come this health issue. You may be one of the lucky people where diet and exercise work. I don't think there are many in this category, however.
So... I'm going to say to you what my Doctor said to me when I took your attitude of dealing with high cholesterol:
"What do you think you are going to do the rest of your life... eat food you really don't like... ignore parties and situations because of your cholesterol...? Do you think you are going to exercise dutifully the rest of your life...?
The answer is No! You may be able to keep up the regimine for 6 months to a year, but you will faulter... you will want a piece of pizza... you will want a BBQ burger or BBQ'd ribs... you will want Prime rib at Christmas... if you haven't been previously exercising daily, you will get tired of constant exercise. To think you can give up all the foods you like and exercise for the rest of your life is just plain not realistic.
You are way more likely to succeed in lowering your cholesterol by using a medication."
How's that for a frank talk from my Doctor...? I have to say after 16 years of dealing with high cholesterol, he is right on the money. Wayyyy difficult to eat correctly everyday... unless you are a Munk hidden away on a mountain top. Same with execise if fitness was not already your lifestyle.
Having given you my Doctor's spiel, here is some of my experiences during my 16 years of trying to control my cholesterol.
My experience with low fat diets is that my cholesterol went through the roof. I ate zero animal fat for 9 months.
The problem with low fat is you end up eating a whole lot of carbs. And carbs can really raise your triglycerides and LDL.
I have had much better luck on diets low in carbs. Fat didn't make a difference... and still doesn't. I don't eat too much red meat... I eat mostly chicken... always have. That's another reason my Doctor wanted to put me on meds... I've always eaten fresh food made at home and not too much fat.
Exercise is good for your health regardless... and may help a tad... but in my case it didn't help much. The problem is that cholesterol is made in the liver... and in my case, it appears that nearly 100% of the cholesterol in my blood is produced by my liver, so low fat doesn't help me directly with lowering my cholesterol.
I did Atkins... low carbs... which was great because I lost a lot of weight and my HDL improved 25%. But my overall cholesterol numbers were still unacceptable. But still much better than the low-fat diet I did.
Statins work fairly well, but I did not ever like the side effects. I tried three different statins for a couple years each. One of the statins I was taking was removed from the market because it was killing folks. I won't ever consider statins again as a form of treatment.
I tried a prescription Bile acid sequestrants... but you had to take about 16 pills a day at intervals. After a week of this, I knew I wouldn't continue for the rest of my life with a regimine like this, so I stopped taking them.
The latest med I started about a year ago is Niaspan... it's extended release niacin... which is just vitamin B-3. All my cholesterol numbers dropped about 50% form taking Niaspan, so now I'm a Niaspan advocate. For the first time in 16 years my cholesterol numbers are in the "normal" range.
So... my short answer is, yes, eat and exercise the best you can... but also don't deprive yourself too much... eat some of the foods you have grown to enjoy, too. But I would look further into Niaspan... to see if that would work for you, and if you can afford it or have insurance for it. You take it once a day at bedtime. And it's just vitamin B-3. Not everyone goes without side effects on Niaspan either. Some find the flushing intollerable, others like me, no issues at all. But you will never know until you try it.
Good luck. :)
Lutheran122
08-17-2007, 06:10 PM
What foods did you eat when you did low fat , which foods were so high in carbs? I am sticking with beans , chicken , turkey , hot and cold vegetables , fruits , almonds and walnuts in real small amounts , whole wheat pasta and low fat sauce , oatmeal , non fat milk , salmon and other non shelled fish...i can stick with this forever as I am tired of eating badly..i never in my life ate this good for 3 days in a row let alone forever but i can do it..i also am up to 1.2 miles a day really fast walking and will increase that distance every week. It is hard but I want to live till at least 60...having heart disease at 42 is a *****.
Guy1_USA
08-17-2007, 06:34 PM
High carb foods include potatoes, rice, pasta, flour, bread, carrots, sweet potatoes, most fruits (low carb fruit incluses berries and peaches).
Most fresh vegies and shrooms are great to eat.
I wouldn't worry about cutting out all fat from your diet. Cheese is just fine in small amounts... like on a BBQ turkey burger, of in a salad. Stick with Jack, cheddar, and other 'hard' cheeses, like Motz and Parm.
Gennerally, if you cut out all the high carbs food above and all snack food, you can eat pretty darn well as most meat, cheese, fresh vegies, and eggs are fine to eat.
It's cutting out the snacks and four products that is the killer... like pizza.
What I do for pizza is just eat the cheese and toppings.
Eating correctly is a hard life... but it can be done.
Most fresh vegies and shrooms are great to eat.
I wouldn't worry about cutting out all fat from your diet. Cheese is just fine in small amounts... like on a BBQ turkey burger, of in a salad. Stick with Jack, cheddar, and other 'hard' cheeses, like Motz and Parm.
Gennerally, if you cut out all the high carbs food above and all snack food, you can eat pretty darn well as most meat, cheese, fresh vegies, and eggs are fine to eat.
It's cutting out the snacks and four products that is the killer... like pizza.
What I do for pizza is just eat the cheese and toppings.
Eating correctly is a hard life... but it can be done.
boubou
08-17-2007, 07:21 PM
Boubou,
Where did you find the red yeast rice? I was told at the health food stores it's not available in Canada when I went looking for it.
FG
At the naturopath, she sold it to me as well as CLA
Where did you find the red yeast rice? I was told at the health food stores it's not available in Canada when I went looking for it.
FG
At the naturopath, she sold it to me as well as CLA
boubou
08-17-2007, 07:30 PM
Ventureman: WOW! thanks for the long and short answers! I really appreciate it. I know what you mean by diet and exercise as a lifelong commitment, I can do the exercise, and most of the diet but I'm a lazy cook, I find that eating low fat means more time in the kitchen. Nevertheless, I really want to see (I'm regarding this as an experiment on my side) if my numbers go down that way. I don't plan on being on this really strict diet for the rest of my life but I have to get these numbers down...I'm what you'd called obsessive about it now. I'm thinking niacin, yes, I have a health plan so I'll have to call the doctor for a prescription, I'm wondering if it would be safer (thinking it just might be) than the RYR.
Thank you so much for your imput! and to all the others as well of course! :D
Thank you so much for your imput! and to all the others as well of course! :D
greentree
08-17-2007, 09:16 PM
My cholesterol went from 227 to 209 in 8 weeks with eating a low fat diet, fruits and vegetables, oatmeal with cinnamon every morning for breakfast and walking about 3 miles every day. I did cheat once in a while but the numbers went down in spite of it. Hope this helps.
boubou
08-17-2007, 09:32 PM
That's great! a little encouraging, that means that mine could go down from 320 to about 300 yikes, so much work to do.
I'll keep at it!
I'll keep at it!
mmvic
08-18-2007, 12:35 AM
U.S. FDA has just issued a WARNING about several Chinese red yeast rice products.
As far as an outright BAN, all I can find is that Germany bans its sale.
I don't think Canada does though. In fact, while RYR was banned in the USA, many people ordered it from Canada.
Lenin, the amusing thing about the warning was that it was because the RYR contained lovastatin! :jester: The ever vigilant FDA is protecting our interests while ensuring Advantia and other valuable drugs remain on the market. Seems they have nothing better to do than analyze RYR!:confused:
As far as an outright BAN, all I can find is that Germany bans its sale.
I don't think Canada does though. In fact, while RYR was banned in the USA, many people ordered it from Canada.
Lenin, the amusing thing about the warning was that it was because the RYR contained lovastatin! :jester: The ever vigilant FDA is protecting our interests while ensuring Advantia and other valuable drugs remain on the market. Seems they have nothing better to do than analyze RYR!:confused:
boubou
08-18-2007, 09:39 AM
Lenin, the amusing thing about the warning was that it was because the RYR contained lovastatin! :jester: The ever vigilant FDA is protecting our interests while ensuring Advantia and other valuable drugs remain on the market. Seems they have nothing better to do than analyze RYR!:confused:
That's reassuring, after reading about the ban here last night, I went to bed worrying about wether I should be taking it or not. Looks like it's ok.
Yep, no problem getting RYR here in Canada. I don't know about health food store but the naturopath are selling it.
That's reassuring, after reading about the ban here last night, I went to bed worrying about wether I should be taking it or not. Looks like it's ok.
Yep, no problem getting RYR here in Canada. I don't know about health food store but the naturopath are selling it.
jimmydale57
08-18-2007, 10:38 AM
You sound like me when I was first diagnosed with high cholesterol.
Everyone is sooooo different when it come this health issue. You may be one of the lucky people where diet and exercise work. I don't think there are many in this category, however.
So... I'm going to say to you what my Doctor said to me when I took your attitude of dealing with high cholesterol:
"What do you think you are going to do the rest of your life... eat food you really don't like... ignore parties and situations because of your cholesterol...? Do you think you are going to exercise dutifully the rest of your life...?
The answer is No! You may be able to keep up the regimine for 6 months to a year, but you will faulter... you will want a piece of pizza... you will want a BBQ burger or BBQ'd ribs... you will want Prime rib at Christmas... if you haven't been previously exercising daily, you will get tired of constant exercise. To think you can give up all the foods you like and exercise for the rest of your life is just plain not realistic.
You are way more likely to succeed in lowering your cholesterol by using a medication."
How's that for a frank talk from my Doctor...? I have to say after 16 years of dealing with high cholesterol, he is right on the money. Wayyyy difficult to eat correctly everyday... unless you are a Munk hidden away on a mountain top. Same with execise if fitness was not already your lifestyle.
Having given you my Doctor's spiel, here is some of my experiences during my 16 years of trying to control my cholesterol.
My experience with low fat diets is that my cholesterol went through the roof. I ate zero animal fat for 9 months.
The problem with low fat is you end up eating a whole lot of carbs. And carbs can really raise your triglycerides and LDL.
I have had much better luck on diets low in carbs. Fat didn't make a difference... and still doesn't. I don't eat too much red meat... I eat mostly chicken... always have. That's another reason my Doctor wanted to put me on meds... I've always eaten fresh food made at home and not too much fat.
Exercise is good for your health regardless... and may help a tad... but in my case it didn't help much. The problem is that cholesterol is made in the liver... and in my case, it appears that nearly 100% of the cholesterol in my blood is produced by my liver, so low fat doesn't help me directly with lowering my cholesterol.
I did Atkins... low carbs... which was great because I lost a lot of weight and my HDL improved 25%. But my overall cholesterol numbers were still unacceptable. But still much better than the low-fat diet I did.
Statins work fairly well, but I did not ever like the side effects. I tried three different statins for a couple years each. One of the statins I was taking was removed from the market because it was killing folks. I won't ever consider statins again as a form of treatment.
I tried a prescription Bile acid sequestrants... but you had to take about 16 pills a day at intervals. After a week of this, I knew I wouldn't continue for the rest of my life with a regimine like this, so I stopped taking them.
The latest med I started about a year ago is Niaspan... it's extended release niacin... which is just vitamin B-3. All my cholesterol numbers dropped about 50% form taking Niaspan, so now I'm a Niaspan advocate. For the first time in 16 years my cholesterol numbers are in the "normal" range.
So... my short answer is, yes, eat and exercise the best you can... but also don't deprive yourself too much... eat some of the foods you have grown to enjoy, too. But I would look further into Niaspan... to see if that would work for you, and if you can afford it or have insurance for it. You take it once a day at bedtime. And it's just vitamin B-3. Not everyone goes without side effects on Niaspan either. Some find the flushing intollerable, others like me, no issues at all. But you will never know until you try it.
Good luck. :)
Hi Ventureman
I found the above post quite inspiring. I love the way you say it "like it is". My wife has high cholesterol and has tried the statins and too many side effects. She also has trouble swallowing large pills..She has a one month prescription for 500 mg. of niaspan. It is pretty well the last medication left on the shelf for her. I have printed out your post for her to read as you say it much better than I can. I also started with Niaspan and my cholesterol numbers have improved dramatically. I am hoping that my wife can find a way to start taking niaspan also. I think reading your post might help...... Jim
Everyone is sooooo different when it come this health issue. You may be one of the lucky people where diet and exercise work. I don't think there are many in this category, however.
So... I'm going to say to you what my Doctor said to me when I took your attitude of dealing with high cholesterol:
"What do you think you are going to do the rest of your life... eat food you really don't like... ignore parties and situations because of your cholesterol...? Do you think you are going to exercise dutifully the rest of your life...?
The answer is No! You may be able to keep up the regimine for 6 months to a year, but you will faulter... you will want a piece of pizza... you will want a BBQ burger or BBQ'd ribs... you will want Prime rib at Christmas... if you haven't been previously exercising daily, you will get tired of constant exercise. To think you can give up all the foods you like and exercise for the rest of your life is just plain not realistic.
You are way more likely to succeed in lowering your cholesterol by using a medication."
How's that for a frank talk from my Doctor...? I have to say after 16 years of dealing with high cholesterol, he is right on the money. Wayyyy difficult to eat correctly everyday... unless you are a Munk hidden away on a mountain top. Same with execise if fitness was not already your lifestyle.
Having given you my Doctor's spiel, here is some of my experiences during my 16 years of trying to control my cholesterol.
My experience with low fat diets is that my cholesterol went through the roof. I ate zero animal fat for 9 months.
The problem with low fat is you end up eating a whole lot of carbs. And carbs can really raise your triglycerides and LDL.
I have had much better luck on diets low in carbs. Fat didn't make a difference... and still doesn't. I don't eat too much red meat... I eat mostly chicken... always have. That's another reason my Doctor wanted to put me on meds... I've always eaten fresh food made at home and not too much fat.
Exercise is good for your health regardless... and may help a tad... but in my case it didn't help much. The problem is that cholesterol is made in the liver... and in my case, it appears that nearly 100% of the cholesterol in my blood is produced by my liver, so low fat doesn't help me directly with lowering my cholesterol.
I did Atkins... low carbs... which was great because I lost a lot of weight and my HDL improved 25%. But my overall cholesterol numbers were still unacceptable. But still much better than the low-fat diet I did.
Statins work fairly well, but I did not ever like the side effects. I tried three different statins for a couple years each. One of the statins I was taking was removed from the market because it was killing folks. I won't ever consider statins again as a form of treatment.
I tried a prescription Bile acid sequestrants... but you had to take about 16 pills a day at intervals. After a week of this, I knew I wouldn't continue for the rest of my life with a regimine like this, so I stopped taking them.
The latest med I started about a year ago is Niaspan... it's extended release niacin... which is just vitamin B-3. All my cholesterol numbers dropped about 50% form taking Niaspan, so now I'm a Niaspan advocate. For the first time in 16 years my cholesterol numbers are in the "normal" range.
So... my short answer is, yes, eat and exercise the best you can... but also don't deprive yourself too much... eat some of the foods you have grown to enjoy, too. But I would look further into Niaspan... to see if that would work for you, and if you can afford it or have insurance for it. You take it once a day at bedtime. And it's just vitamin B-3. Not everyone goes without side effects on Niaspan either. Some find the flushing intollerable, others like me, no issues at all. But you will never know until you try it.
Good luck. :)
Hi Ventureman
I found the above post quite inspiring. I love the way you say it "like it is". My wife has high cholesterol and has tried the statins and too many side effects. She also has trouble swallowing large pills..She has a one month prescription for 500 mg. of niaspan. It is pretty well the last medication left on the shelf for her. I have printed out your post for her to read as you say it much better than I can. I also started with Niaspan and my cholesterol numbers have improved dramatically. I am hoping that my wife can find a way to start taking niaspan also. I think reading your post might help...... Jim
flowergirl2day
08-18-2007, 01:05 PM
The ever vigilant FDA is protecting our interests while ensuring Advantia and other valuable drugs remain on the market. Seems they have nothing better to do than analyze RYR
How true! :D They've been hard at work analyzing information from two previous studies of long-term effects of Omeprazol and Nexium. This information was kindly supplied by the extremely helpful and very cooperative drugs' maker, Astra-Zeneca. :D On August 9th, both Health Canada and the FDA issued preliminary press releases. Their wording is interesting.The Canadian one leaves room for doubt, depending on which way things will go. We'll have to wait until the end of the year in both countries for the final verdict.
flowergirl
How true! :D They've been hard at work analyzing information from two previous studies of long-term effects of Omeprazol and Nexium. This information was kindly supplied by the extremely helpful and very cooperative drugs' maker, Astra-Zeneca. :D On August 9th, both Health Canada and the FDA issued preliminary press releases. Their wording is interesting.The Canadian one leaves room for doubt, depending on which way things will go. We'll have to wait until the end of the year in both countries for the final verdict.
flowergirl
boubou
08-19-2007, 09:55 AM
What foods did you eat when you did low fat , which foods were so high in carbs? I am sticking with beans , chicken , turkey , hot and cold vegetables , fruits , almonds and walnuts in real small amounts , whole wheat pasta and low fat sauce , oatmeal , non fat milk , salmon and other non shelled fish...i can stick with this forever as I am tired of eating badly..i never in my life ate this good for 3 days in a row let alone forever but i can do it..i also am up to 1.2 miles a day really fast walking and will increase that distance every week. It is hard but I want to live till at least 60...having heart disease at 42 is a *****.
I'm eating very much like you are...not lots of pasta and bread carb based tho. The rest is very similar plus the supplements RYR, coQ10.fish oil, multivitamin. Exercising quite a bit too. I'm also 42. How high is your cholesterol? when is your next blood test?
I'm eating very much like you are...not lots of pasta and bread carb based tho. The rest is very similar plus the supplements RYR, coQ10.fish oil, multivitamin. Exercising quite a bit too. I'm also 42. How high is your cholesterol? when is your next blood test?
Lord_Taff
08-19-2007, 10:38 AM
Lenin, the amusing thing about the warning was that it was because the RYR contained lovastatin! :jester: The ever vigilant FDA is protecting our interests while ensuring Advantia and other valuable drugs remain on the market. Seems they have nothing better to do than analyze RYR!:confused:
I say mmvic, please be a sport.
What has been happening over in that part of the world? I would be awfully obliged if you would kindly fill me in on the latest news about RYR, as here on Puffin Island we have yet to receive the drum beats.
Lord_Taff
I say mmvic, please be a sport.
What has been happening over in that part of the world? I would be awfully obliged if you would kindly fill me in on the latest news about RYR, as here on Puffin Island we have yet to receive the drum beats.
Lord_Taff
Lutheran122
08-19-2007, 01:20 PM
I'm eating very much like you are...not lots of pasta and bread carb based tho. The rest is very similar plus the supplements RYR, coQ10.fish oil, multivitamin. Exercising quite a bit too. I'm also 42. How high is your cholesterol? when is your next blood test?
My cholesterol was below 200 but the ratio stunk...163 LDL and only 35 HDL..My triglycerides were also high..that was a bloodtest taken after only 2 days on my new diet. Before that I ate a lot of Diner food and fast food stuff...never had fruit or vegetables at all. Now I eat a lot of spinach , broccoli , carrots and fruit...apple slices , peaches , plums , bananas , red grapes..I rarely have pasta and when I do its whole wheat pasta and fat free sauce. No white bread ever , not even rolls or bagels. I also have salad tooo.. The exercise is very important..just walked on the treadmill for 10 mins and now I go for a 1.5 mile walk..then come back and later on the treadmill again and then walk again..need to go faster though , get the heart rate up higher..this stinks but its better then dying lol..
My cholesterol was below 200 but the ratio stunk...163 LDL and only 35 HDL..My triglycerides were also high..that was a bloodtest taken after only 2 days on my new diet. Before that I ate a lot of Diner food and fast food stuff...never had fruit or vegetables at all. Now I eat a lot of spinach , broccoli , carrots and fruit...apple slices , peaches , plums , bananas , red grapes..I rarely have pasta and when I do its whole wheat pasta and fat free sauce. No white bread ever , not even rolls or bagels. I also have salad tooo.. The exercise is very important..just walked on the treadmill for 10 mins and now I go for a 1.5 mile walk..then come back and later on the treadmill again and then walk again..need to go faster though , get the heart rate up higher..this stinks but its better then dying lol..
boubou
08-19-2007, 03:52 PM
Haha! I know about exercise! I've always been pretty active (I spent 21 years in the Canadian Army) but since getting out, I fell of the wagon a bit. I'm back at it, walking appx 4 days a week for 1 hour with a 7 lbs pack on my back, then 30 min elliptical, then weights (light) about 3 days a week. Good thing I only work part time! Seems like eating right, shopping for these foods, cooking and exercising takes most of the leisure time I spent on the computer and lounging around!
I've lost 8 lbs in the last 3 weeks. That doesn't sound like much but my clothes are feeling better already. I find I have a lot more energy as well.
I've lost 8 lbs in the last 3 weeks. That doesn't sound like much but my clothes are feeling better already. I find I have a lot more energy as well.
JaneM
08-19-2007, 07:10 PM
By diet and exercise, I was able to lower my total cholesterol from around 240 to an average of 190 without a drop in HDL. From what I have read, most people will see a drop in numbers with proper diet and exercise. There are some people who, despite doing everything right, will not be able to lower their numbers. I feel for them!
Getting to my proper weight was key for me, so I huffed and puffed off 15 pounds. Now, I walk one mile every morning, which only takes 18 minutes with one of my Leslie Sansone one mile walking tapes. I put on the coffee, go do my walk, then come back to freshly made coffee. Ayyyy! I also walk a mile or two every night, especially those times when I want to snack. It feels so good to walk, and I usually feel so self-righteous afterwards that I don't want to spoil it by eating bad food. :D
I cut out all trans fat, found so often in processed food. Any treats had to be homemade where I could control the ingredients. This also meant a reduction in saturated fat, since I am not a big meat eater so most of it came from processed food.
Lean chicken and turkey as well as the occasional lean ham slice are the meats I eat. I get good fats from olive oil, walnuts and flax seeds. I take fish oil -- one in the AM, one in the PM. Like others, I get in about half a teaspoon of cinnamon a day. Also, I use Smart Balance Light and have now added some Benecol Light.
For me, the key has been to concentrate on all of the good foods that I CAN eat rather than concentrate on all the bad foods that I should NOT eat. There are so many tasty foods out there that are good for you although sometimes who have to tweak them. I am sure the fact that I eat at home most of the time helps. My mother has high cholesterol, but because she eats out daily, she cannot keep it down. When she tries hard, she is able to lower it in range -- but then, she falls back into her old ways and up go the numbers. My father dangling bacon in front of her doesn't help either! She cannot take the meds, so I am trying to get her to make small changes such as replacing the cream in her coffee with low % milk as well as not eating those butter/margarine products in restaurants. She is trying but is kicking and screaming the whole way. Once she quiets down, I am going to suggest she ask her doctor about Niaspan. ;)
Individualizing your cholesterol plan is important -- oatmeal every morning is not for everybody! But, oat bran used in place of flour can make some mighty fine treats. If you eat foods you like, you will be much more likely to stick with your plan. I am a tomato sauce addict, so homemade pizzas are a favorite of mine. I make a whole wheat thin crust, load it down with tomato sauce, then sprinkle a teaspoon of parmesan cheese or a tablespoon of part-skim mozzarella cheese. After it bakes, I add more olive oil. Not your typical pizza, but for my tastes, it's perfect.
I have just started going all whole wheat since there are so many good whole wheat products in the market now, my favorite being those mini-bagels (which I make into mini-subs by adding olive oil, oregano, lettuce, tomato, turkey breast and a teaspoon of part-skim mozzarello). Yummy!
Also, make sure your thyroid is tested. I am hypothyroid, but unfortunately, I could not blame my cholesterol on that. Darn! Some people can, so it should always be tested before taking meds.
Finally, don't stress about your cholesterol while you are making your changes. Some research shows that stress raises cholesterol. :D If your doctor sees a downward trend in your numbers, chances are you can talk him into more time before going on meds.
Good luck and keep exercising and eating as well as you can!
Getting to my proper weight was key for me, so I huffed and puffed off 15 pounds. Now, I walk one mile every morning, which only takes 18 minutes with one of my Leslie Sansone one mile walking tapes. I put on the coffee, go do my walk, then come back to freshly made coffee. Ayyyy! I also walk a mile or two every night, especially those times when I want to snack. It feels so good to walk, and I usually feel so self-righteous afterwards that I don't want to spoil it by eating bad food. :D
I cut out all trans fat, found so often in processed food. Any treats had to be homemade where I could control the ingredients. This also meant a reduction in saturated fat, since I am not a big meat eater so most of it came from processed food.
Lean chicken and turkey as well as the occasional lean ham slice are the meats I eat. I get good fats from olive oil, walnuts and flax seeds. I take fish oil -- one in the AM, one in the PM. Like others, I get in about half a teaspoon of cinnamon a day. Also, I use Smart Balance Light and have now added some Benecol Light.
For me, the key has been to concentrate on all of the good foods that I CAN eat rather than concentrate on all the bad foods that I should NOT eat. There are so many tasty foods out there that are good for you although sometimes who have to tweak them. I am sure the fact that I eat at home most of the time helps. My mother has high cholesterol, but because she eats out daily, she cannot keep it down. When she tries hard, she is able to lower it in range -- but then, she falls back into her old ways and up go the numbers. My father dangling bacon in front of her doesn't help either! She cannot take the meds, so I am trying to get her to make small changes such as replacing the cream in her coffee with low % milk as well as not eating those butter/margarine products in restaurants. She is trying but is kicking and screaming the whole way. Once she quiets down, I am going to suggest she ask her doctor about Niaspan. ;)
Individualizing your cholesterol plan is important -- oatmeal every morning is not for everybody! But, oat bran used in place of flour can make some mighty fine treats. If you eat foods you like, you will be much more likely to stick with your plan. I am a tomato sauce addict, so homemade pizzas are a favorite of mine. I make a whole wheat thin crust, load it down with tomato sauce, then sprinkle a teaspoon of parmesan cheese or a tablespoon of part-skim mozzarella cheese. After it bakes, I add more olive oil. Not your typical pizza, but for my tastes, it's perfect.
I have just started going all whole wheat since there are so many good whole wheat products in the market now, my favorite being those mini-bagels (which I make into mini-subs by adding olive oil, oregano, lettuce, tomato, turkey breast and a teaspoon of part-skim mozzarello). Yummy!
Also, make sure your thyroid is tested. I am hypothyroid, but unfortunately, I could not blame my cholesterol on that. Darn! Some people can, so it should always be tested before taking meds.
Finally, don't stress about your cholesterol while you are making your changes. Some research shows that stress raises cholesterol. :D If your doctor sees a downward trend in your numbers, chances are you can talk him into more time before going on meds.
Good luck and keep exercising and eating as well as you can!
Lutheran122
08-19-2007, 09:51 PM
Jane I wish I lived in your house , you can cook..I am a terrible cook and my meals are pretty crappy compared to yours. But I have lost about 13 lbs in the past 3 weeks. I weigh 175 and want to get down to 160 but I will need to exercise a lot harder to do that. When I really push it I get pains even though the cardiologist said my arteries narrowing issues are not bad enough for me to be getting angina. Anyway I just started doing the healthy lifestyle only for the last 16 days so maybe I shouldn't push it so fast. I went from eating anything and everything and no exercise for pretty much the last 20 years to a pretty strict fruit and veggie and lean poultry type diet and walking a mile a day or more.
JaneM
08-19-2007, 11:58 PM
Jane I wish I lived in your house , you can cook..I am a terrible cook and my meals are pretty crappy compared to yours. But I have lost about 13 lbs in the past 3 weeks. I weigh 175 and want to get down to 160 but I will need to exercise a lot harder to do that. When I really push it I get pains even though the cardiologist said my arteries narrowing issues are not bad enough for me to be getting angina. Anyway I just started doing the healthy lifestyle only for the last 16 days so maybe I shouldn't push it so fast. I went from eating anything and everything and no exercise for pretty much the last 20 years to a pretty strict fruit and veggie and lean poultry type diet and walking a mile a day or more.
Lutheran, it is difficult to make a complete lifestyle change in a short period of time. I had a great deal of trial and error as well as a few stops and starts before finally settling into a workable healthy lifestyle. I think you are wise to maybe not push so fast. Thirteen pounds in three weeks is a lot of weight loss. I know it took a lot of hard work, but we don't want you to hurt yourself or burn out. It's great that you are so committed to making this work, though!
One thing I have noticed and have done myself, is that when we find out our cholesterol numbers are high, we feel as if we can't eat anything except a small list of foods. Feeling so restricted makes many of us give up the fight. Except for my little concoctions, most of my meals are easy. Cheerios are a favorite, great for either a meal or snack. I always measure out a cup at a time, as I could keep on eating and eating them. If you like them and eat them with milk, make it skim -- plus adding strawberries, blueberries and/or raspberries make them a great meal. Since getting enough fiber is very important, I keep around a box of Fiber One cereal for those days when I am short on fiber intake. These cereals have half the amount of soluble fiber as oatmeal, but that's better than none. For convenience, I like Boar's Head sliced turkey from the deli, the ones with the AHA seal showing they are low in sodium, fat, and cholesterol. I actually like raw vegetables, so I have a large bowl of my favorites everyday, and I have at least two choices of fruit per day. There are some quick and easy choices, and hopefully, you'll find lots of favorites too.
Eating well and exercising at least 30 minutes per day makes this old body feel great! I have so much more energy than a few years ago when I ate junk and did not walk daily. Hang in there.
Lutheran, it is difficult to make a complete lifestyle change in a short period of time. I had a great deal of trial and error as well as a few stops and starts before finally settling into a workable healthy lifestyle. I think you are wise to maybe not push so fast. Thirteen pounds in three weeks is a lot of weight loss. I know it took a lot of hard work, but we don't want you to hurt yourself or burn out. It's great that you are so committed to making this work, though!
One thing I have noticed and have done myself, is that when we find out our cholesterol numbers are high, we feel as if we can't eat anything except a small list of foods. Feeling so restricted makes many of us give up the fight. Except for my little concoctions, most of my meals are easy. Cheerios are a favorite, great for either a meal or snack. I always measure out a cup at a time, as I could keep on eating and eating them. If you like them and eat them with milk, make it skim -- plus adding strawberries, blueberries and/or raspberries make them a great meal. Since getting enough fiber is very important, I keep around a box of Fiber One cereal for those days when I am short on fiber intake. These cereals have half the amount of soluble fiber as oatmeal, but that's better than none. For convenience, I like Boar's Head sliced turkey from the deli, the ones with the AHA seal showing they are low in sodium, fat, and cholesterol. I actually like raw vegetables, so I have a large bowl of my favorites everyday, and I have at least two choices of fruit per day. There are some quick and easy choices, and hopefully, you'll find lots of favorites too.
Eating well and exercising at least 30 minutes per day makes this old body feel great! I have so much more energy than a few years ago when I ate junk and did not walk daily. Hang in there.
boubou
08-20-2007, 09:33 AM
Like others, I get in about half a teaspoon of cinnamon a day. Also, I use Smart Balance Light and have now added some Benecol Light.
How is that cinnamon taken? sprinkled on foods? what is smart balance light?
Unfortunately, we can't get Benecol light here in Canada, going down the States next month, I'll have to make sure to bring a few back!
Thanks for your story, it's very encouraging.
How is that cinnamon taken? sprinkled on foods? what is smart balance light?
Unfortunately, we can't get Benecol light here in Canada, going down the States next month, I'll have to make sure to bring a few back!
Thanks for your story, it's very encouraging.
flowergirl2day
08-20-2007, 11:09 AM
Boubou,
Sprinkle the cinnamon into your daily bowl of oatmeal. I do. You won't even know it's there. Same with the flax seed. Add in some walnuts, flax seed (crushed), and berries. It's the healthiest breakfast you can have. It will also help improve your cholesterol. For those who must have sugar, I guess brown sugar would be appropriate. :)
FG
Sprinkle the cinnamon into your daily bowl of oatmeal. I do. You won't even know it's there. Same with the flax seed. Add in some walnuts, flax seed (crushed), and berries. It's the healthiest breakfast you can have. It will also help improve your cholesterol. For those who must have sugar, I guess brown sugar would be appropriate. :)
FG
babygirl127
08-23-2007, 08:35 PM
Yes it is possible. Although everyone is different. I have lowered mine. I was told 2 months by doctor but asked for 3 instead. My TC dropped 53 points from 264 down to 211. My LDL dropped from 180 to 140 40 points. My other numbers are fine. I try to exercise 30 minutes a day. I cut out a lot of things, eggs, use egg whites instead, only have 1% milk twice a week, small amount, cut out red meat, maybe once a month, more fruit & veggies, no cakes or unhealthy cookies which I ate tons of. I eat lots of almonds. I eat lots of chicken & fish. I do have oatmeal 4 times a week, put cinnamon in it. I was taking 1 fish oil a day, now I increased to 2 day. I know my TC is over 200 but I feel it was a huge drop and continue to get it down more. So it depends on the person. I know some people who do not have will power and want to continue eating unhealthy and just take statins. But that is not me. Good luck to you stay positive and it is worth a try.;)
Love2Read
08-23-2007, 11:19 PM
Thank you so much for your responses! I really feel encouraged by reading about what some of you have done. Some of you have dropped your TC by a significant amount through diet and exercise and I am hoping I will have the same success.
I realize it may be hereditary, but I have the next few weeks to at least try on my own. My cholesterol was 256. The Dr. told me I could have until mid-October to get it down. If I don't, I have to go on medicine. So I have been doing a very strict diet of fruits, veggies, soy, egg whites, oats and cheerios. It's not "fun" but I feel really good doing it!! My body just feels better. I also exercise 5-6 times a week. Sometimes just a 30 min. walk, sometimes aerobics, but I do something.
I'm anxious for October to get here b/c I can't wait to see if my numbers come down.
Thank you all again for your responses!! I appreciate you taking the time to answer my question.
I realize it may be hereditary, but I have the next few weeks to at least try on my own. My cholesterol was 256. The Dr. told me I could have until mid-October to get it down. If I don't, I have to go on medicine. So I have been doing a very strict diet of fruits, veggies, soy, egg whites, oats and cheerios. It's not "fun" but I feel really good doing it!! My body just feels better. I also exercise 5-6 times a week. Sometimes just a 30 min. walk, sometimes aerobics, but I do something.
I'm anxious for October to get here b/c I can't wait to see if my numbers come down.
Thank you all again for your responses!! I appreciate you taking the time to answer my question.
mmvic
08-24-2007, 01:06 AM
I say mmvic, please be a sport.
What has been happening over in that part of the world? I would be awfully obliged if you would kindly fill me in on the latest news about RYR, as here on Puffin Island we have yet to receive the drum beats.
Lord_Taff
Lord Taff, RYR can be sold in the US (and Canada with lovastatin). Unfortunately, the FDA now is starting to monitor RYR for lovastatin to protect us wretches from the low dose statin we might get from it!
I find this simply amazing when we see what they let remain on the market and the absolutely deadly drugs they approve and leave on the market. Money talks and the statin makers have to be protected. Funny, a few years ago they were thinking to allow Mevacor or Pravachol as over the counter drugs!
On diet control for cholestrol - IMHO , it works for some people and doesn't for others. Genetics, metabolism and other factors play a role in individual response. People are complex animals eh? A good healthy diet low in saturated fats, processed foods and artificial additives will help your total health nonetheless regardless of your cholesterol.:D
What has been happening over in that part of the world? I would be awfully obliged if you would kindly fill me in on the latest news about RYR, as here on Puffin Island we have yet to receive the drum beats.
Lord_Taff
Lord Taff, RYR can be sold in the US (and Canada with lovastatin). Unfortunately, the FDA now is starting to monitor RYR for lovastatin to protect us wretches from the low dose statin we might get from it!
I find this simply amazing when we see what they let remain on the market and the absolutely deadly drugs they approve and leave on the market. Money talks and the statin makers have to be protected. Funny, a few years ago they were thinking to allow Mevacor or Pravachol as over the counter drugs!
On diet control for cholestrol - IMHO , it works for some people and doesn't for others. Genetics, metabolism and other factors play a role in individual response. People are complex animals eh? A good healthy diet low in saturated fats, processed foods and artificial additives will help your total health nonetheless regardless of your cholesterol.:D
Lutheran122
08-24-2007, 05:55 AM
Why is cinnamon good to take?
kellys_happy
08-24-2007, 04:36 PM
Yest, diet and exercise helped me. Plus, I started taking niacin every day.
morrisun
08-24-2007, 05:11 PM
My husband just lowered his from 250 to 196 in about 3 months with dietary changes and he started taking Omega 3 Fish Oil everyday. We were shocked actually!
flowergirl2day
08-24-2007, 08:30 PM
Lutheran, :)
The results of a small study in 2003 indicated that a daily dose of cinnamon has a positive effect on cholesterol levels.
The average age of the study participants was 52 and they all had type 2 diabetes. In this study, which lasted 40 days, three groups of people were given 1-6 grams of cinnamon each day. The results were amazing. The cinnamon acts as insulin, so it affected the blood glucose (lowered it).
It also lowered triglycerides, LDL(7-27%) and total cholesterol (12-26%).
Powdered cinnamon was used.
Another study was done a few years later elsewhere. Unlike in the first study, cinnamon extract was used with totally different results. Cinnamon supplementation showed no effect on cholesterol at all.
Cinnamon can be dangerous in high doses. It is not known at what levels it becomes potentially toxic. It has not been studied extensively. The bottom line is that more research is needed. And, don't waste your money on cinnamon supplements. They don't work.
flowergirl
The results of a small study in 2003 indicated that a daily dose of cinnamon has a positive effect on cholesterol levels.
The average age of the study participants was 52 and they all had type 2 diabetes. In this study, which lasted 40 days, three groups of people were given 1-6 grams of cinnamon each day. The results were amazing. The cinnamon acts as insulin, so it affected the blood glucose (lowered it).
It also lowered triglycerides, LDL(7-27%) and total cholesterol (12-26%).
Powdered cinnamon was used.
Another study was done a few years later elsewhere. Unlike in the first study, cinnamon extract was used with totally different results. Cinnamon supplementation showed no effect on cholesterol at all.
Cinnamon can be dangerous in high doses. It is not known at what levels it becomes potentially toxic. It has not been studied extensively. The bottom line is that more research is needed. And, don't waste your money on cinnamon supplements. They don't work.
flowergirl
Lutheran122
08-25-2007, 06:42 AM
So should I get a container of powdered cinnamon and sprinkle a teaspoon a day onto my oatmeal? Would that help , other then making my plain oatmeal taste better :)
Lord_Taff
08-25-2007, 07:19 AM
Lord Taff, RYR can be sold in the US (and Canada with lovastatin). Unfortunately, the FDA now is starting to monitor RYR for lovastatin to protect us wretches from the low dose statin we might get from it!............................
Thanks mmvic 'my friend', I'll have to see if that's going to affect exported products for import over here.
I'll be back!
Taff
Lord Taff.
Thanks mmvic 'my friend', I'll have to see if that's going to affect exported products for import over here.
I'll be back!
Taff
Lord Taff.