Monday, January 5, 2009
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Improving LDL Cholesterol to Lower Heart Disease Risk
Your LDL-cholesterol result:_____________ Your LDL goal:________
Your LDL is too high therefore, your doctor has prescribed a type of safe and effective heart medicine that will lower your LDL and reduce your risk of cardiac death. Studies have shown that if you take this type of medication, called a statin, your chance of dying of anything over the next 5 years will be cut by 30%, and your chance of dying from a heart attack will be cut almost in half, by 42%. The real risk of a major side effect is extremely low, and the real benefit in terms of reduction in death and cardiac problems is extremely high. Taking a statin may be the single most important thing you can do to have a chance for a longer life.
The doctor may need to change the dose or even the medication in order to find just the right type and amount for you. See the medication information sheet about the specific medication your doctor has ordered for you to take.
In addition to the medication, everyone needs a little TLC! (Therapeutic Lifestyle Changes)
Therapeutic Lifestyle recommendations:
Low fat diet, Weight management and Physical activity.
DIET
- Limit or avoid foods that raise your LDL-cholesterol:
- Saturated fat: Butter, milk (whole and 2%), cheese; lard, meat, dark poultry with skin; coconut oil, palm oil; chocolate
- Cholesterol: Organ meats, egg yolks, shrimp, squid
Trans-fatty acids: Fried foods and bakery items such as crackers and cookies - Cholesterol: Organ meats, egg yolks, shrimp, squid
Eat more foods that help lower your LDL-cholesterol:
- Soluble fiber: Legumes (dried peas and beans), citrus fruits, apples, pears, oatmeal, oat bran, barley, sweet potatoes, flax, root vegetables Plant stanols / sterols: Benecol and Take Control margarinesSoy protein: Tofu, soybeans, soy burgers, soy milk
WEIGHT MANAGEMENT/PHYSICAL ACTIVITY: Achieve a reasonable weight for your height as determined by your health care professional. The best way to lose weight without chronic hunger is to eat a diet high in whole grains, legumes, vegetables, and fruit. Exercise moderately for 30 minutes most days of the week with the approval of your doctor.
Follow-up:
Your MHS doctor will determine how often you will need repeat blood tests to monitor your LDL-cholesterol and treatment. It is important for you to get these tests done when ordered. Call your doctor if you have questions or concerns about treating your LDL-cholesterol to lower your heart disease risk.
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