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Herbal Alternatives to Statins

1/21/2015

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Statins are a group of drugs which lower blood cholesterol. They act by inhibiting the enzyme responsible for producing cholesterol in the liver. High blood cholesterol is believed to increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases such as heart attack or stroke. 

Statins are prescribed for anyone with a greater than 10% risk of developing cardiovascular disease in the next ten years. This risk level was recently decreased from 20% to 10% making nearly 4 in 10 adults eligible for treatment. This effectively means every healthy man over 60 and healthy woman over 65 could be offered drugs to cut their cholesterol levels.

While there are clear benefits of taking statins to reduce the risk of heart disease there can be problems. Prescribing statins to those at lower risk may give the illusion of protection and deter people from changing an unhealthy lifestyle. Another problem is the disabling side effects experienced by some taking the drug. These can include muscle pain and weakness, joint pain, tiredness, digestive problems and increase in blood sugar levels.

For those at lower risk who experience unpleasant side effects changes in diet combined with taking herbal medicine could offer an effective alternative approach.

Diet changes should include:

·         Reducing saturated fats

·         Increasing fish consumption or taking omega 3 fatty acids

·         Eating plenty of soluble fiber found in vegetables, fruit, legumes and oats

·         Cooking with monounsaturated vegetable oils such as olive oil

·         Including nuts such as almonds

·         Plant sterols/stanols fortified products which reduce absorption of dietary cholesterol

There are several herbs which have been shown to decrease blood cholesterol levels. Key herbs include garlic, turmeric, globe artichoke and hawthorn berries which decrease synthesis of cholesterol and may also increase the excretion of cholesterol by increasing bile production. These herbs can be combined with saponin containing herbs such as fenugreek and Gymnema, which prevent absorption of cholesterol. Mucilaginous herbs such as slippery elm, marshmallow root and psyllium provide a valuable source of soluble fibre which has cholesterol lowering actions.

An selected combination of these herbs together with herbs that strengthen the cardiovascular system could provide a gentle, safe and effect way to decrease blood cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.

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Stress free in 2015 @ Karma Studios

1/14/2015

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Workshop 'Stress free in 2015' @ Karma Studios

14th March 11-2pm

The workshop will provide the following:

·         An update on what causes stress in our everyday lives

·         Our physiological response to stress and the impact on our body

·         Consider the stress in your life

·         What are the main demands of modern life in 2015 examples include digital overload, lack of time, fast pace

·         Practical tools to manage your stress and build greater resilience

·         Role of diet and herbal medicines in strengthening your body and therefore mind.

Investment: £45

To book call Helen Gormley 07912652240 or email helen@helengormley.co.uk  

www.helengormley.co.uk          
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    Gina Webley
    BSc PhD PGCE MNIMH

    Medical Herbalist

    Tweets by @webleyherbalist

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