Happy Wednesday! Today, we are taking a look at statins, a class of drugs commonly prescribed to lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease. While they can be very effective, diet still plays a critical role in supporting heart health and, in some cases, can even enhance the benefits of statins. Learn more, get our takes, and try a heart-healthy recipe.
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What Are Statins?
Statins are a class of medications prescribed to help lower your blood levels of LDL (or “bad”) cholesterol. They work by reducing cholesterol production in the liver, helping the body clear existing bad cholesterol, and reducing inflammation in arterial walls, which can help prevent plaque buildup. In this way, statins can significantly lower the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
Does Diet Matter When You Are Taking Statins?
There are foods that can support or undermine heart health, even when taking statins. Emphasizing whole, fiber-rich, and anti-inflammatory foods while limiting processed and high-saturated-fat items helps create the best environment for long-term cardiovascular health. Taking a statin doesn’t give you a free license to eat with abandon.
If cardiovascular health is important to you, you may enjoy these posts:
Learn more about statins including:
Our takes on statins
What we think about diet versus medication when you are taking statins or have heart disease
Foods you should be eating
Foods you should be mindful of
Our VIP Tinned Fish Guide and Fiber Guide
Two statin-friendly recipes
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