Statins May Lower Your Energy Along With Cholesterol

Here’s an FYI that I found interesting. I just watched a segment on ABC news about a new study that said that statins like Lipitor may also drain certain people of energy. That does not mean you should quit taking your meds though.

If you are taking a statin to help lower your cholesterol and also feel tired and achy, or even have trouble remembering things, the best course of action is to talk to your doctor about it. Ask them about a CPK test, if a lower dose may work as well, or maybe even change brands.

This segment also mentioned some steps you could take on your own like taking Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) which is a powerful antioxidant. It helps the body convert food to energy, and its antioxidant ability protects us from free radical damage, similar to that of vitamin E. Co–Q10 is present in almonds, ocean salmon, sardines, spinach and certain meats.

If you choose to supplement your intake, research has shown that "soft gel" versions of CoQ10 supplements work better than dry powdered versions.

One thing they said to avoid if you have the symptoms is Grapefruit, which actually increases the statin levels in your system.

On the good side was Dark Chocolate. It has a long history of being noted for its antioxidant benefits, but a new study conducted by the Yale-Griffin Prevention Research Center pointed out a new benefit to cardiovascular health. This recent study reported that Hershey’s Extra Dark Chocolate has a positive impact on blood pressure and blood vessel function. The rich dark chocolate is comprised of 60 percent cacao.

Cacao or the cocoa plant is a small evergreen tree. Its seeds are used to make cocoa and chocolate. Studies have shown heart benefits surrounding cacao, including increased blood flow, less platelet stickiness and clotting, improved LDL cholesterol, and lower blood pressure. Doctors say these benefits are the result of the cocoa’s antioxidant chemicals known as flavonoids, which seem to prevent both cell and damage and inflammation.

Another thing you can do for yourself is to get more quality sleep time. The recommendations included going to bed before midnight and allowing yourself at least 7.5 hours to rejuvenate your body. One rule of thjumb to remember is go to bed when it’s dark and get up when it’s light out.

If you would like to watch it for yourself just google statins and low energy.

Diabetes Supplements Can Be Effective Helpers

As a Type II diabetic I have had to educate myself about this disease and wondered about what supplements if any could help get my blood sugar under control.

I learned there is no magic bullet, and not substitute for proper diet and enough exercise, but there are a few doctor recommend supplements that I take.:

Alpha-lipoic acid: An antioxidant that can enhance glucose uptake, inhibit glycosylation (the abnormal attachment of sugar to protein), and helps promote and maintain eye and nerve health. A good level to begin with is 100 mg a day.

Coenzyme Q10: Diabetics are generally at more risk of having heart trouble, and CoQ10 is a powerful antioxidant that helps maintain a healthy cardiac function. The recommendation is to take 60-100 mg of a soft gel capsule with your largest meal.

GTF (glucose tolerance factor) chromium: This trace element plays a role in blood sugar regulation by working with insulin to help transport glucose into cells. I recommend the form known as GTF chromium. Take 1,000 mcg daily.

Magnesium: To help promote healthy insulin production, take 400 mg daily.

Because I’m on a tighter budget these days I also found a place where I can get better quality supplements at cheaper prices. I fill up my nutritional supplement needs there and you might also want to visit their website