Questioning Statins: Are They Really the Answer?

My cholesterol just came back at 260. The doctor immediately mentioned statins. I said, “No, thank you.” Instead, I went through a full series of heart tests to make sure everything was truly in check.

If you’ve ever been told to lower your cholesterol, chances are statins came up.

They’re one of the most commonly prescribed medications in the world marketed as a quick fix to prevent heart disease. But here's the truth: while statins can lower cholesterol numbers on paper, they often come with hidden costs that aren’t so easy to ignore.

1. They can deplete vital nutrients.
Statins block the liver's ability to produce cholesterol but they also reduce Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), a powerful antioxidant your cells need to produce energy. When CoQ10 drops, you can feel it: fatigue, muscle weakness, and even heart issues, the very thing statins are meant to help prevent.

2. They impact muscle and joint health.
Muscle pain, cramping, and weakness are some of the most common side effects of statins. For some, it’s manageable. For others, it’s debilitating. And over time, this can hinder your ability to stay active - a key to heart health.

3. They may increase your risk of diabetes.
Multiple studies have linked statins to increased blood sugar levels and a heightened risk of developing type 2 diabetes, especially in women and older adults. That’s a trade-off worth questioning.

4. They may affect brain health.
Your brain is made mostly of fat, and it relies on cholesterol to function. Some statin users report memory loss, brain fog, or trouble concentrating. While research is still emerging, we do know: the brain needs cholesterol. The solution to heart health shouldn’t compromise cognitive vitality.

5. There are better, holistic ways to support your heart.
Inflammation, not just cholesterol, plays a major role in heart disease. A lifestyle grounded in real food, movement, quality sleep, and stress reduction can do wonders to reduce inflammation and support your body’s natural balance.

And don’t overlook blood pressure. It’s just as critical to track.

High blood pressure silently damages your arteries, leading to strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems.

Low blood pressure on the other hand, can leave you dizzy, faint, and at risk for more serious complications.

Bottom line: Your body was never meant to rely on a drug for balance. With the right support - nutrition, movement, recovery - it knows how to heal, protect, and thrive.

Vitality doesn’t come in a pill. It comes from honoring the whole picture.

To your vitality,
Lizanne Falsetto

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