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The Role of Statins and Vitamin D in Proper Cholesterol Control
By Alpro Pharmacy
June 10, 2024
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Statins are a class of cholesterol-lowering drugs that play an important role in preventing coronary heart disease (CHD). Most people who take them often wonder if they can discontinue their treatment once their cholesterol levels have returned to the normal range. To put it simply, statin users are not advised to stop taking their medication unless informed otherwise by their healthcare practitioners.
The Different Types of Cholesterol
When was the last time you had your cholesterol checked? If you have done a complete lipid profile test, you might have noticed different terminologies used. What do they mean?
1. Cholesterol is a waxy, fatty substance found in your blood. There are two main types: ‘good’ cholesterol (high-density lipoprotein; HDL) and ‘bad’ cholesterol (low-density lipoprotein; LDL).
- LDL is often known as the “bad” cholesterol. When LDL levels are high, they form deposits (also known as plaque) in the blood vessels, which in turn, harden and thicken. The resulting condition is known as atherosclerosis, and it is a major cause of heart disease.
- HDL, on the other hand, is the “good” cholesterol that acts as a vacuum cleaner for cholesterol in our body. It removes extra cholesterol and plaque buildup in the arteries, which are then sent to the liver for elimination.
2.Triglycerides (TG) are another type of fat found in the blood, which can increase the risk of heart disease.
The Role of Statins and Vitamin D
The common cholesterol medicine statins help by reducing LDL in our bodies, thereby reducing the risk of heart disease. Thus, it is crucial for statin users to continue their treatment to reduce the likelihood of the aforementioned complications. Our earlier article also addressed some myths about the safety of statins—do have a read if you have not.
Vitamin D, on the other hand, helps to improve HDL levels. There are various ways to increase HDL levels, such as diet, physical exercise, and vitamin D supplementation. In this article, we will focus on the latter, as many are unaware of its importance in cholesterol control.
Taking Vitamin D at a dose as low as 1000 IU daily has had a positive impact on improving HDL levels in the bloodstream. Along with its anti-inflammatory effect, it has been shown that the regular consumption of vitamin D supplementation may improve heart health and provide cardio-protective effects.
In conclusion, it is important that those consuming statins remain compliant to their medication for the long-term preventative effects. To ensure the best outcomes, they are also encouraged to start taking Vitamin D supplements and also participate in various forms of outdoor activities.
Need More Information? Talk to Our Expert!
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Alpro ePharmacy or visit the nearest Alpro Pharmacy. Our team, consisting of pharmacists, doctors, physiotherapists, nutritionists, audiologists and dietitians, is ready to assist and provide support.
