"Myths and Truths About Cholesterol"
There is an epidemic of heart disease in America and the finger is usually pointed at high cholesterol. But how true is its reputation as “the bad guy”?
The answers may surprise you.
The role of cholesterol in our bodies
Almost every cell in our bodies produces cholesterol. It plays a vital role in many bodily functions such as repairing wounds, brain functioning, protecting against depression, fighting infection and it is the most powerful anti-oxidant in existence. Lowering cholesterol levels reduces the amount available to support these essential functions. In addition studies have linked low cholesterol with depression.
It follows that the statin drugs (Lipitor, Mevacor, Zocor etc) are not necessary because there is no need to treat high cholesterol in the first place. In fact these drugs have many nasty side effects. In every study carried out with rodents, statins caused cancer and in recent trials with 10,000 participants, cholesterol-lowering drugs did not result in any long-term improvement.
The real reasons for heart disease
If cholesterol is not the culprit, then what really contributes to heart disease?
Valid theories point to vitamin or mineral deficiency, use of pasteurized milk, stress, and the increase of trans fatty acids in food.
How to avoid heart disease
Simple strategies such as eating a well-balanced diet with lots of fruit and vegetables, staying away from processed foods and trans fats, eating grass-fed beef, maintaining a healthy weight, and engaging in moderate exercise will put you on the road to long term good heart health.
For a more detailed discussion of the points mentioned above, click HERE to listen to our podcast.
Dr. Brown
|
Podcast
We are providing a bi-monthly audio podcast where Dr. Brown addresses health issues that are growing concerns in our society. A podcast is like a radio show, but on the internet. You can listen to it by going to www.NDAMC.com, or by subscribing to it in iTunes HERE. If you have any questions, just contact the NDAMC office.
Newsletter
The email newsletter will be a great resource, not only for you, but for those close to you. It will provide information regarding health issues that you can easily forward on to those that you know that also want to learn. This is a perfect introduction to Dr. Brown and NDAMC.
Website
The new website will continue to grow with both new information that will not only help you as you learn about health, but will also be a place that future patients of Dr. Brown can learn how they can effectively improve their health. Check out our website by clicking HERE.
|