Wednesday, April 8, 2009

Heart Health

  According to a study in the European Heart Journal, a blood marker called apolipoprotein B (apo B) may be a better way to predict a fatal heart attack than a cholesterol test. Here's why: while standard cholesterol test measure the number of LDL (bad cholesterol), an Apo B test takes it a bit further and measures the density of LDL. This is important because, small, dense LDL particles, as measured by apo B, are more commonly present in persons with coronary artery disease (CAD) than an increased LDL cholesterol level.
 

  Cholesterol is not quite the villain it's made out to be and turns out to be useful and necessary in the body. When lowered with statins, you increase your risk for a host of other problems: decreased function of liver and kidneys, muscle aches, dizziness, upset stomach, and more. This could result from the following nutrients being depleted while on the medication: CoQ 10, Vitamins A, B12, D, E, K, Beta-Carotene, Folic Acid and Iron.
  
  If you are concerned about your heart health, contact the clinic at 562.795.5180 and request an Apo B test. If you or someone you know are on statins or considering statins, please consider increasing your exercise, and reducing the saturated fat in your diet to lower your cholesterol.  Please call the office with any questions.

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