We're damned if we do and damned if we don't!  For years doctors have been encouraging us to take statins for high cholesterol, yet just a month ago the FDA issued warnings saying that these drugs -- such as Lipitor, Crestor, Zocor, etc. -- can cause certain cognitive effects and increases in blood sugar levels.  Studies have shown that they can cause muscle aches, an increased risk of diabetes, and memory loss.  

High cholesterol runs in my family but it wasn't until recently that any doctor indicated my elevated LDL was a problem because my HDL, the good cholesterol, was always high,  thus placing me within a normal ratio (my triglycerides are excellent).  However, now my primary doctor is always after me to take a statin.  So, over a two week period, I took 1/2 the prescribed statin dose as well as  CholestOff (over-the-counter pills) and Integra-Lean Irvingia (which translates to African Mango) and knocked my LDL down 100 points!  Needless to say, improving one's diet is also extremely important by limiting red meat, fats, and eating more fresh vegetables and fruits (particularly berries).  The good news is that a glass of red wine is heart healthy and helps reduce our bad cholesterol.  Resveratrol in red wine may be a key ingredient  that helps prevent damage to blood vessels, reduces bad cholesterol and prevents blood clots.  Also, antioxidants in red wine called polyphenols may help protect the lining of blood vessels in the heart.

We've known for years that we should cut back on sugar.  Last night 60 Minutes presented a segment about sugar and high-fructose corn syrup being toxic, actually poisonous, to our systems.    I have heard for years that cancer cells feed on sugar and this was substantiated in the report.  A portion of last night's 60 Minutes report may be viewed here: http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-18560_162-57407128/preview-is-sugar-toxic/.   The New York Times published an article last year suggesting that sugar can even cause cancer: http://www.nytimes.com/2011/04/17/magazine/mag-17Sugar-t.html?pagewanted=all. 

Needless to say, there is too much sugar in the American diet for people of all ages, particularly children.  But as we age, we need to especially focus on good nutrition in order to keep muscles, bones, organs, and other body parts strong for the long haul. Eating less sugar and fats and consuming more vitamin-rich foods will boost our immunity and fight illness-causing toxins.  Healthy eating! ♥