Question:

Updated on
June 8, 2012

Supplements that can be used as an alternative to statins (Lipitor).

I have been taking lipitor 20 mg for nearly 8 years, what supplement should I be taking as I feel I tend to forget so many things.

Answer:

There are several very good products on the Canadian market that can be used to lower cholesterol. These are alternatives to statins. Two of these are: Cholestol HEP-40 and the ProOmegaLDL (Nordic Naturals) (see link: http://www.nordicnaturals.com/en/Products/Product_Details/154/?ProdID=1501). I believe that the ProOmegaLDL is available in naturpathic clinics and health food stores that have a health care practitioner on staff. Whereas Cholestol is sold retail in pharmacies.
There are pros and cons to the ProOmegaLDL in that it contains red yeast rice. Red yeast rice contains low levels of a natural statin so people that have side effects from statins need to be careful. However, if you tolerate statins, or want to take a natural form of statin at a lower dose, then this product is a good choice. Based on the data that I have seen, this product does effectively reduce cholesterol and triglycerides.
In the case of CHolestol, it has undergone numerous clinical trials and does not contain any natural statins. Its efficacy is from the HEP-40 which binds the cholesterol in the gastrointestinal tract. The cholesterol lowering benefit has been demonstrated (statistically significant versus placebo) in several clinical trials. You can read an article I wrote on this product manufactured by Thorne Research at http://www.google.ca/#q=hep-40+chitosan+canada&hl=en&rlz=1R2SKPB_enCA376&prmd=imvns&ei=G1vST4IupOzSAfiEnY8D&start=0&sa=N&bav=on.2,or.r_gc.r_pw.r_qf.,cf.osb&fp=2f0c31d18a18a6d6&biw=1920&bih=895 .

Response by Guy Chamberland M.Sc., Ph.D.

Disclaimer:

Before starting any new health program or before you begin taking any medication, natural medicine, or supplement, always check with your primary health care provider.