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AUGUST, 2005 NEWS CHOLESTEROL CONTROL "My total is 180, what's yours?" "How's that HDL number?" And finally, "WHAT DOES ALL THIS MEAN? Let's try to de-mystify the cholesterol issue and make it simple. First, the American Heart Association describes cholesterol as a soft, waxy substance found among the lipids (fats) in the bloodstream and in all your body's cells. It's an important part of a healthy body because it's used to form cell membranes, some hormones and is needed for other functions. Hypercholesterolemia is what happens when there's too much cholesterol in the blood. That condition can lead to a heart attack. LDL (low density lipoprotein) cholesterol is called "bad" cholesterol. Lower levels of LDL cholesterol reflect a lower risk of heart disease. HDL (high density lipoprotein) is the "good" cholesterol. High levels of HDL cholesterol also reflect a lower risk of heart disease. Triglycerides are the chemical form in which most fat exists in food as well as in the body. They're also present in blood plasma and, in association with cholesterol, form the plasma lipids. Measuring triglycerides are important, too, because a high level in the blood could indicate heart disease or diabetes. The ideal number for total cholesterol is under 180 mg/dL, for LDL is less than 100 mg/dL, for HDL is 60 or better and triglycerides should be less than 150 mg/dL. Keeping these numbers in the normal range can be challenging for some people, but drugs aren't necessarily the only treatment. In fact, some statin drugs can have very uncomfortable side effects and in some cases, can interfere with someone's quality of life. Ron Hunninghake, a physician with The Bright Spot for Health in Witchita, KS believes some people can benefit greatly from supplements. He uses them as a first line of defense, resorting to prescriptions only when the supplements don't show results. Here are some natural things that have helped lower cholesterol in many people, including me! 1. Policosanol: This substance, which is derived from sugar cane, has been shown in numerous studies to lower cholesterol. Just 10 - 20mg daily is all that's needed. This is highly recommended by many health care professionals. 2. Niacin: Many doctors recommend niacin for lowering cholesterol. The over-the-counter and prescription products are exactly the same and the FDA has approved niacin for lowering cholesterol. It can cause flushing in some people, but over time, that side effect can go away. Start with 100mg daily and work up to 500mg three times a day. 3. Plant sterols can lower total cholesterol and LDL. 4. Guggul: This is an herb from India with cholesterol- lowering properties. There are studies that support its effectiveness, although most were done in India. 5. Garlic: Penn State nutrition researchers have identified a group of chemicals in garlic that decreases cholesterol production by liver cells 40 to 60 percent in laboratory tests. If you use blood thinners, ask a health care professional before using. 6. Fish oil supplements with EPA & DHA: Almost every cardiovascular condition benefits from fish oils, as do other medical issues. Fish oils can lower total cholesterol as well as boosting HDL. Use caution if taking blood thinners. Dietary changes are critical to cholesterol control. Eating a diet high in fiber, cold-water fish, fruits, vegetables and whole grains (the "Mediterranean" diet) has scientific proof it works to lower cholesterol and is good for overall cardiovascular health. Losing weight and eliminating sugar and white carbs will also help, as will staying away from most animal fats. Finally, regular exercise can make a tremendous difference in how we feel as well as improve those cholesterol numbers. As always, check with a health care professional about your options, especially if you take prescription medicines.
Essential Oil & Massage Tips from ShawnMarie, CMT, Massage Therapist, Whole-istic Health, 804-677-0805 Lime is a citrus oil perfect for the heat of the summer. Used as a spritzer, lime will keep you alert, help you focus and help cool you down when you have to be out in the heat of the day. When used as a toner, lime can refresh and relieve oily skin conditions. Because lime is phototoxic, it is a must to wear sunscreen when using this essential oil in any topical manner. And lime should never be used undiluted on the skin. Regular massage care eases chronic conditions. This is because each massage session builds upon itself to create balance, relieve old and new pain and promote wellness. If massage therapy is received at least once per month, the therapist is able to massage deeper and the recipient is able to relax further. This allows increased blood flow to once stagnant areas, more pain relief, better mobility and deeper relaxation with each successive massage.
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