Elevated blood cholesterol seriously increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Cholesterol, moving along the bloodstream, is able to settle on the walls of blood vessels, narrowing their lumen, and form cholesterol plaques. In the presence of other risk factors - mature age, vascular aneurysms, past heart attacks or strokes - vasoconstriction causes irreparable harm to health, while increasing the risk of developing other vascular diseases.

To lower the level of cholesterol in the blood, there are special medications.

Cholesterol tablets must be prescribed by the attending physician, guided by the relevant indications, since uncontrolled intake of drugs leads to undesirable side effects.

If a patient, having received a blood test with elevated cholesterol values, does not receive an appointment for drug treatment, he should reconsider his diet and lifestyle, and not take drugs on his own, so as not to harm himself.

There are several groups of drugs for lowering cholesterol levels in the blood:

They differ in composition (the main active ingredient) and the mechanism for lowering the concentration of cholesterol.

statin group drugs

All statins can be divided into several groups according to the active substance in the composition.

List of some active ingredients:

• fluvastatin;
• rosuvastatin.

Drugs with the active ingredient simvastatin (trade names Vasilip, Zocor, Simvacard) are one of the first in the line of tableted medicinal substances to lower blood cholesterol levels.

The mechanism of action of simvastatin is well understood and predictable, but this moment means with its content are practically not used in medical practice due to the appearance of more effective drugs. AT maximum doses the use of simvastatin is undesirable, as it leads to the development of side effects, the harm from taking these drugs often exceeds the benefits.

The estimated cost of drugs with simvastatin in Russia ranges from 100 to 600 rubles, depending on the country of origin.

Medicines containing atorvastatin have been shown to be twice as effective as simvastatin preparations in clinical trials.

The high efficiency of drugs in this group allows you to use a small concentration of the active substance and thereby avoid the likelihood of harm to health from side effects. Atorvastatin drugs can lower cholesterol levels very quickly. The cost of drugs in this group ranges from 200 to 800 rubles, depending on the pharmaceutical manufacturer.

These include:

Rosuvastatin is currently the newest substance to lower blood cholesterol levels. In terms of strength of action, it surpasses all the above drugs and already in small doses very quickly has a noticeable effect against high cholesterol. It is used in cases of significant excess of normal cholesterol levels. In Russia, the cost of drugs with rosuvastatin ranges from 300 to 1000 rubles. Preparations with this active ingredient include:

• Acorta;
• Crestor;
• Rosucard;
• Rosulip.

Fibrates group of medicines

Fibrates are drugs in which the active substance is a derivative folic acid. These substances bind to bile acids, thereby somewhat inhibiting the work of the liver and reducing the production of cholesterol. In this, their mechanism of action is similar to statins, but they have a different active ingredient in the composition.

Some types of fibrates:

• fenofibrate;
• ciprofibrate;
• clofibrate.

The most commonly used drugs in medical practice are gemfibrozil and fenofibrate.

Gemfibrozil is a low-toxic and at the same time highly effective agent against cholesterol. It is able to lower cholesterol in those patients who are not helped by special diets and other lipid-lowering agents. The drug has a cumulative effect, the effect of taking it becomes noticeable after a few days, and maximum benefit reached after a month of treatment.

The advantage of gemfibrozil is a small number of side effects and the possibility of using very low concentrations of the drug (daily dose does not exceed 0.6-0.9 g). average cost Gemfibrozil in Russia is 1500 rubles.

Fenofibrate in the composition of medicines (Lipantil, Traykor) is most often used to lower cholesterol in patients with diabetes. Clinical studies show a reduction in the risk of complications in people with diabetes with regular use of fenofibrate preparations.

Besides, medicinal substances this group is able to remove excess amounts from the body uric acid, which is a very great benefit for gout patients.

Fenofibrate preparations have contraindications: they are harmful to patients with gallbladder disease and peanut allergy. The approximate cost of Lipantil and Traykor in Russia is 1000 rubles.

Other drugs to lower cholesterol

Cholesterol-lowering drugs include ezetemib, a cholesterol-lowering drug. In Russia, it costs from 1000 to 2000 rubles, depending on the form of release. This drug belongs to the new hypolipidemics, as it has a fundamentally different principle of action. Nicotinic acid (niacin) and its derivatives are also used to lower cholesterol levels.

In addition to the hypolipidemic action, this substance has a lot of other effects:

• prevents the development of beriberi (pellagra);
• improves metabolism and blood circulation;
• displays toxic substances from the body.

Niacin derivatives are used as independent means and in complex therapy. Nicotinic acid tablets are sold under various trade names, the cost of a package of 50 tablets in Russia does not exceed 50 rubles.

Also, with high cholesterol (usually with slight excesses of the indicator), some experts recommend taking various biological supplements, as well as means traditional medicine, for example, garlic infusions. The benefit (as well as the harm) of such treatment is not yet known, so doctors recommend using dietary supplements and Excipients for prevention purposes only.

List of dietary supplements for lowering cholesterol:

• Policosanol;
• Omega Forte;
• Doppelhertz omega 3;
• Tykveol;
• lipoic acid;
• SitoPren.

The cheapest remedy listed is lipoic acid - it can be purchased at a pharmacy for 30-40 rubles. The cost of the rest is biologically active additives ranges from 150 to 600 rubles.

Important! The use of all these substances makes sense only as a general health effect (some drugs slightly stabilize blood pressure, improve metabolism), but not for the treatment of pathological high level cholesterol.

However, this method of treatment is rapidly gaining popularity.

Benefits and side effects of lipid-lowering drugs

AT general view The effect of cholesterol pills on the body is the same. In addition to directly lowering cholesterol levels, lipid-lowering drugs are several:

The last point is especially relevant for patients who are waiting for surgery to remove large plaques from the vessels.

The listed effects in the future have a positive effect on the patient's body, and therefore they are prescribed to patients with the following goals:

Cholesterol-lowering drugs reduce the risk of heart attacks in patients at risk for cardiovascular disease.

Due to the expansion of the lumen of the vessels and the improvement of the rheological parameters of the blood, the risk of a heart attack is reduced several times, which is confirmed medical practice and perennial clinical research drugs.

Despite a number of benefits and often the need to use drugs to lower cholesterol, they can be harmful to health. Side effects are more likely to occur with long-term use, in the elderly, in people with weakened immune systems and chronic diseases.

More rare are side effects from taking statins, such as:

These effects are mainly individual intolerance drug components.

In contact with

Many people face the problem. The appearance of hypercholesterolemia (this is what is called elevated level cholesterol in the blood) can lead to blood vessels and heart, which pose a great threat to human life. Therefore, it is impossible to launch this state in any case. He needs to be treated. In this case, it is not enough to simply find the best remedy from cholesterol. Required here A complex approach to the treatment that we are going to talk about now.

The best remedy for cholesterol in the blood -. It should be observed by all patients with hypercholesterolemia. This therapeutic diet implies an exclusion from the diet following products supply:

• all kinds of fried foods;
• sausages, including home-made;
• cheese with high content fat, including processed;
• refined oils;
• sugar;
• sweets;
• fatty meats;
• salty crackers, chips and other snacks;
• pastries and various confectionery.

All of these foods contribute to bad cholesterol in the blood, so you should not use them. If you want to treat yourself to them, then they are allowed to be eaten in very small quantities (no more than 50-70 g). However, foods such as fatty dairy products, fish, vegetables and fruits should be included in the daily menu of a patient with hypercholesterolemia.

Traditional medicine also advises to use with high cholesterol:

• all varieties of fish (the priority should be sea);
• seaweed;
• seafood;
• sour varieties of berries;
• bran;
• freshly squeezed fruit and vegetable juices.

If you follow all these rules of nutrition, it will gradually decrease and will soon return to normal. Apart from therapeutic diet, you should regularly take modern medicines lowering cholesterol. We will talk about them now.

To treat hypercholesterolemia, doctors prescribe such medicines for high cholesterol like statins. This pharmacological group of drugs has a strong lipid-lowering effect.

The liver is responsible for the production of cholesterol in the body. If its functionality is impaired, the synthesis of this substance is disrupted, which leads to the development of hypercholesterolemia. Taking statins contributes to blocking the production of cholesterol by the liver, by increasing the number of low-density lipoprotein recipes on them.

These medicines are taken for a long time. How long it will last and at what dosage statins will be taken, only the doctor determines, taking into account the level of cholesterol in the blood and the patient's body weight.

To this pharmacological group include the following drugs:

• Rosuvastatin;
• Simvastatin;
• Atorvastatin and others.

These drugs have a very strong effect on the liver, and therefore during medical therapy It is very important to constantly monitor the functioning of this body.

In addition to statins, nicotinic acid preparations, bile acid sequestrants, fibric acid derivatives and various dietary supplements are also used to treat high cholesterol, contributing to the normalization of the whole body.

But since all these cholesterol-lowering drugs have side effects and have a number of contraindications that make them impossible to take, many people wonder: is it possible to cure hypercholesterolemia without drugs? It is possible, and for this it is necessary to use alternative medicine.

Alternative medicine remedies for hypercholesterolemia

It should immediately be noted that folk remedies for high blood cholesterol are less effective than drugs, and therefore they need to be used for a long time - at least 2 months. At the same time, it is necessary to constantly monitor your well-being, since alternative medicine often leads to side effects, most often from the gastrointestinal tract.

Healing Powder

If we talk about what drugs lower cholesterol, then the first thing to note is the healing powder from flax seeds. They contain a huge amount of useful substances, including Omega-3, which help to normalize blood circulation, eliminate atherosclerotic plaques from the walls of blood vessels, as well as the removal of bad cholesterol from the body.

All you need is 300 g of flax seeds and a coffee grinder. Grind the seed to a powder and consume them in an amount of 1 tsp. before each meal with a full glass of water.

lemon medicine

This remedy for cholesterol in the blood came to us from Spain. It is often practiced there by local healers and quite successfully. To prepare it you will need:

• fresh lemons - 1 kg;
• honey - 200 g;
• garlic - 2 heads of medium size.

Lemons should be thoroughly washed under running water, and then twisted through a meat grinder without peeling them. Then you need to add honey and garlic, passed through a press, to the lemon gruel.

The prepared product should be consumed in 1-2 tbsp. before every meal. Store it in the refrigerator in a tightly closed jar.

Highly good remedy to normalize blood cholesterol levels. To prepare it, you will need to take 3 parts of hawthorn (fruits) and the same amount of mountain ash (it is better to use not red, but black). They need to be mixed with 2 parts seaweed, string, chamomile and buckthorn bark.

All these ingredients should be scrolled through a meat grinder and placed in a glass jar. Store only in the refrigerator. Use this remedy you need this: take 1 tbsp. prepared raw materials and pour a glass of boiling water. Put the mixture on the fire, cook for about 20 minutes, and then let it stand for 1-2 hours and strain. Daily dosage this broth - 1.5 liters. It should be divided into equal parts and consumed throughout the day in 3-4 doses.

Kvass from jaundice

This remedy for high cholesterol has good feedback. According to many, its decrease is observed after a month of treatment. To prepare medicinal kvass, you will need to take 50 g of jaundice herb and place it in a bag made of gauze fabric.

You need to attach some kind of load to this bag, and then lower it into a saucepan, into which you should pour 3 liters of boiling water. It should also add a glass of sugar and 1 tsp. sour cream. The prepared mixture must be put in a dark place for a couple of weeks, while it should be stirred every day. Take 2-3 glasses per day.

Remember that all these remedies work gradually. Therefore, if you give your preference to alternative medicine, then in no case should you interrupt treatment. Otherwise, it will not allow you to achieve the desired results and improve your health.

High cholesterol video

Cholesterol refers to organic compounds, lipids that enter the body with food, as well as synthesized by the liver. One of the varieties of natural fatty alcohols, cholesterol is needed to ensure normal human life.

Excess cholesterol in the blood is the primary link in the process of atherosclerotic, or cholesterol deposits, plaques in blood vessels. Normally, the level of total cholesterol, found in the blood as an element of lipoprotein, is in the range of 3.6-5.2 mmol / l, and with age due to physiological processes The upper limit of normal increases with both age and gender of the patient. With more than the upper limit, the risk of atherosclerosis increases, significantly increasing when the indicator reaches 6.2 mmol / l or more.

Circulating in the blood, cholesterol, with its excess, tends to stick together and accumulate in the arteries. Clusters or plaques impede the movement of blood, creating obstruction to blood flow and narrowing the lumen of blood vessels, which causes oxygen starvation and insufficient blood supply tissues and organs. When the plaques break down, they contribute to the formation of a blood clot, which provokes thromboembolism, heart attacks, strokes and can lead to death.

However, just like an excess, a lack of cholesterol is also dangerous. This compound, for example, is one of the important advantages of breastfeeding: cholesterol is important for the development of the brain of infants, affects the production of necessary hormones, the musculoskeletal, immune, reproductive systems, and in substitute mixtures, its content is significantly inferior mother's milk. To others important functions cholesterol include:

• ensuring the strength and elasticity of cell membranes;
• a necessary component of the synthesis of cortisone, vitamin D, regulation of the balance of phosphorus and calcium in the body;
• participation in the functioning of the nervous and immune systems;
• protection of blood cells (erythrocytes) from exposure various types hemolytic poisons;
• a necessary component for the production of hormones of the reproductive system, etc.

Reduced levels of "good" cholesterol lead to disorders in the sexual and reproductive spheres, inability to conceive, loss of libido, as well as depressive states with high probability suicidal outcome, disorders digestive function, the development of osteoporosis, diabetes, hemorrhagic stroke. Due to the risk of lowering total blood cholesterol when taking statins, first of all, experts recommend changing the diet, lifestyle, and trying to lower cholesterol levels without drugs. To do this, you need to know the methods that help lower cholesterol without drugs, as well as which foods lower cholesterol in the blood, and which, on the contrary, increase it.

How to lower cholesterol without drugs?

Cholesterol in the blood is found in the form of a combination of lipid and protein, lipoprotein. Depending on the type of complex compound in total cholesterol, determined by a blood test, high-molecular lipoproteins (“good” cholesterol) and low-molecular (“bad”) lipoproteins are isolated. The ratio of good and bad lipoproteins is called the coefficient of atherogenicity, calculating it according to the formula: the difference between total and high molecular weight cholesterol is divided by the indicator of low molecular weight lipoprotein. The optimal coefficient is 3 or less. With a coefficient of 5, they speak of a high risk or the development of atherosclerosis that has begun.
The practice of lowering cholesterol with medications has shown that when taking one of the most effective substances - statins - the level of total cholesterol decreases, both "good" (by 30%) and "bad" (by 50%), which negatively affects the body. In pharmacological practice, two groups of drugs are used for therapy - fibrates and statins. Fibrates are considered effective in combination with statins.

The drugs are prescribed for a strictly defined group of patients: with a heart attack, stroke, acute coronary syndrome or surgical operation on the heart in history, as well as with a hereditary risk of developing diseases associated with high cholesterol. The course of treatment is long and low risk the use of drugs that directly affect the concentration of lipoproteins is considered inappropriate.
Bile acid preparations are also used to lower blood cholesterol. nicotinic acid, cholesterol absorption inhibitors and other drugs. Currently, non-drug therapies are recommended to lower cholesterol to a certain level.

Physical activity to regulate cholesterol levels

This factor affects all people with high blood cholesterol levels, but especially those who lead sedentary image life, combining sedentary work with low activity on vacation. Physical inactivity is also one of the main reasons for the formation of excess body weight, which also increases the likelihood of an increase in cholesterol levels.

Any physical activity - walking, running, swimming, sport games, gymnastic exercises - activates the metabolism in the body and helps to eliminate the stagnation of bile in the biliary tract, which helps to independently remove excess cholesterol.
Walking and running are especially recommended: these sports, according to studies, the best way help support circulatory system in good shape and cleanse the blood of excess cholesterol.

Bad habits and general health of the body

There is a pronounced correlation between overweight body and elevated blood cholesterol levels. Weight control helps lower cholesterol. If the achievement of a normal body mass index corresponding to the age and sex characteristics and growth parameters is not feasible with the help of diet and physical activity, a specialist consultation is necessary.

Smoking is not just a bad habit. Constant intake of nicotine in the body, tobacco smoke and carcinogens adversely affect the entire body, including increasing the risk of atherosclerosis: a slowdown in metabolism leads to the accumulation of cholesterol and a decrease in the rate of its removal from the circulatory system.
Alcohol is a contributing factor Negative influence on health. There is an unconfirmed theory that moderate use alcoholic beverages (no more than 200 ml of dry wine per day) can positively affect the process of lowering cholesterol. An unequivocal opinion on this issue has not been developed due to the lack of large-scale studies, but the harm from daily intake of even such doses of alcohol exceeds the possible benefits.

Bad eating habits also affect blood cholesterol levels. food habit industrial production and excessive sugar content in food and drinks are also a negative factor contributing to the formation of cholesterol plaques and the development of atherosclerosis. Exclusion from the diet of products with hydrogenated fats (margarine, products with milk fat substitute, most confectionery, convenience foods, fast food, fried foods, etc.) helps to reduce blood cholesterol by reducing the intake of low molecular weight lipoproteins contained in this group . Limiting the consumption of sugar in any form (in drinks, meals, sweets, etc.) ensures a decrease in the glycemic index of the blood and promotes the production of "good" low molecular weight cholesterol.
In this way, healthy lifestyle life, motor activity and refusal from bad habits help lower cholesterol without medication.

Diseases, conditions and medications that increase cholesterol levels

In the body, cholesterol can also accumulate due to the presence of diseases or when taking certain medications. An increase in cholesterol levels is caused by dysfunctions of the kidneys, liver, pancreatic diseases, diabetes mellitus type 1 and 2, hypertonic disease, hypothyroidism.
An increase in cholesterol levels can also be side effect some medicines. Such a consequence is most common with long-term courses of immunosuppressants, hormonal steroid drugs, female oral contraceptives. With prolonged therapy with drugs of these groups, regular monitoring of cholesterol levels is necessary.

The physiological conditions in which there is a natural increase in the concentration of cholesterol without harmful consequences include the gestational period. Changes hormonal background during pregnancy, they contribute to increased production of lipoproteins, and a blood test can show an excess of total cholesterol by almost two times. This is a physiological norm that helps the development of the fetus and the preservation of the health of the mother. Without concomitant risk factors (diseases of a pregnant woman, pathologies, dysfunctions, which can be aggravated by a high concentration of lipoproteins), this condition does not require correction and medical intervention, cholesterol does not harm the body and its indicators return to normal after delivery.

High cholesterol: principles of dietary nutrition

Proper nutrition is one of the most important non-drug method lowering cholesterol levels. However, before asking which foods lower cholesterol in the blood, it is necessary to find out what types of food and drinks contribute to its increase: it is impossible to achieve a positive effect by eating “cholesterol-burning” foods in combination with junk food.

Photo: Foxys Forest Manufacture / Shutterstock.com

The main substance that affects the growth of cholesterol is fat, so the diet for this disease is based on a significant reduction in foods rich in this substance. should be limited or completely eliminated from daily diet products such as:

• meat and poultry fatty varieties;
• high-fat sauces (including mayonnaise and mayonnaise-based salad dressings);
• strong meat, fish broths and soups;
• pastries, sweets, confectionery, chocolate;
• by-products of any type;
• milk and dairy products, including butter, increased fat content (more than 5%).

It is also not recommended to use strong tea, coffee, cocoa-containing and sweet carbonated drinks.
Products with refractory and hydrogenated fats are categorically excluded: these substances simultaneously increase the level of low molecular weight cholesterol and reduce the amount of “good”, high molecular weight.
You should eat regularly, fully, giving preference to gentle processing of products: boiling, baking, stewing, steaming or grilling, minimizing frying and the use of oil or fat. During the day, 3 main meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) and one or two additional (second breakfast, afternoon tea) should be observed.
Also important drinking regimen: Drink 2 liters (8 glasses) of fluid per day, preferably clean water, herbal teas, compotes, fruit drinks, freshly squeezed juices.

Folk recipes and foods that lower cholesterol

Products that are a natural regulator of cholesterol levels are used to reduce the amount of "bad" and increase the level of "good" cholesterol in its pure form in the diet, as well as in the form of tinctures, decoctions, teas in alternative medicine. In both ways of application, it is necessary to remember the presence of contraindications: for example, 2-3 cloves of raw garlic (as a folk remedy, chopped garlic is infused in olive oil or alcohol and used as a sauce for dishes and tincture, consumed drop by drop) well help not only to lower cholesterol, but also to strengthen the walls of blood vessels. This method, however, is not recommended for people with medical conditions. digestive tract. Therefore, before starting such nutritional therapy, it is necessary to consider possible contraindications, allergic reactions and individual characteristics of the body.

• Pistosterols for lowering cholesterol

Most useful substances to correct the amount of cholesterol are vegetable styrenes (phytosterols): they help increase lipoproteins high density while lowering low molecular weight cholesterol levels. Phytosterols are part of food additives, however, they can be obtained with food no less effectively.

One of the most popular foods rich in vegetable styrenes is avocado: in accordance with the results, the daily inclusion of half the fruit in the menu for 30 days (subject to the rules of nutrition) helps to reduce cholesterol by 8%, while the level of high-density lipoprotein increases by 13% . A low-fat diet for the same period provides a 5% reduction.

The effectiveness of eating various cholesterol-lowering foods is based on the amount of plant styrenes in each. separate form. You should know that the same products in the original raw materials after industrial processing differ in composition and content of both useful and harmful substances. For example, the calculation of the amount of phytosterols in olive oil is given for cold pressed virgin oil, and when replacing it with cheaper or refined options, a similar effect should not be expected.

Phytosterol-rich foods also include pine nuts, linseed oil and seeds (and their mixture, urbech), almonds, extra virgin olive oil and the already mentioned avocado.

• Fish fat

Pure or directly in fish fish fat very useful for high cholesterol levels, as it belongs to natural statins. Omega-3 fatty acid is responsible for the regulation of lipid levels and corrects the ratio of high and low density lipoproteins.
The highest content of fatty acids in relation to the lowest ability of tissues to accumulate mercury is observed in wild varieties of salmon and sardines. It is necessary to remember the rules of thermal processing of fish: during the frying process, most fatty acids are destroyed, therefore, for nutrition with benefits, it is worth using boiled, stewed, baked or steamed fish.

• The effect of fiber on cholesterol

Research proves that if you start every day with oatmeal(not fast food), then within a month the level of lipoproteins decreases by 5%. The same effect is observed when the menu includes a large number of other cereals, whole grain bread, legumes (especially lentils and soybeans), flax seeds and oat bran.
Fiber-rich foods help regulate cholesterol: two months of daily intake of 100 g of bran on average helps to reduce general level lipoproteins by 14%, and also help to reduce body weight and improve digestion.
Bran can be mixed with cereals for making cereals, added to kefir, yogurt, and you can also replace regular bread and cookies with various variations with oat bran.
One of the most common and fiber-rich foods available to all segments of the population is white cabbage. For therapeutic purposes, it is recommended to include in the menu from 100 g of fresh, stewed, boiled or sauerkraut in a day.

• Polyphenols in berries and fruits

Photo: Marian Weyo / Shutterstock.com

Correction of the total level of lipoproteins can be achieved by increasing the production of a macromolecular compound. Polyphenols - substances that stimulate the production of high-density lipoprotein - are found in olive oil, as well as in red and purple fruits: blueberries, lingonberries, pomegranates, dark grapes, cranberries, strawberries, strawberries, chokeberry. 150 g of fruits or fruit puree per day for 60 days contribute to an increase in the amount of "good" cholesterol by an average of 5%, and cranberries with the same volume - by 10%.

Juices and purees can be used not only in their pure form, but also prepare berry mixtures, combine with desserts (low-fat cottage cheese, yogurt), make mixed nectars and fruit drinks.
In grape berries, the dense skin and seeds are recognized as the most useful, they can also be consumed inside. At the same time, the benefits of grape wine in lowering cholesterol are exaggerated: the value of active ingredients in the processing of juice into alcoholic drink decreases, and the number of possible side effects increases.

• Garlic helps lower cholesterol: how to use it

Fresh garlic cloves contain enough high concentration natural statin. With the daily inclusion of 2-3 cloves in the menu, a positive effect is noted.
Garlic must be consumed without heat treatment. It can be added to ready meals (vegetable stew, salads, soups) in crushed form, insist olive oil on garlic and use it as a dressing for salads (1 tablespoon per day). To achieve the effect, a long and regular intake of garlic is necessary, which is not recommended for people with diseases of the stomach and intestines.

• Magnesium for high cholesterol

Cholesterol in the blood is dangerous not only by accumulation, but also by the ability to “stick” to the walls of arteries and form cholesterol plaques. Normally, up to a certain amount of cholesterol, the cells lining the inner walls of blood vessels are able to repel lipoproteins. Freely circulating low-density cholesterol in the bloodstream has the ability to be excreted from the body.

But with a decrease in the amount of magnesium in the tissues, this ability decreases, and triglycerides freely settle on the walls of the arteries. The use of foods containing a high amount of magnesium helps to prevent atherosclerosis and remove "bad" cholesterol from the walls of the circulatory system.
Magnesium is rich in white cabbage, especially in sauerkraut, baked potatoes, legumes(beans, red beans, lentils), bananas, wheat and soy germs, nuts and seeds.

• Effect of Vitamin D

Vitamin D in fat-soluble form can be taken in the form of medicines or dietary supplements, and it can also be assisted in its own synthesis in the body by being outdoors in sunny weather.

This vitamin effectively reduces the level of low-density lipoproteins and helps to increase macromolecular compounds. Studies also show a link between high levels of vitamin D in the body and a reduced risk of disease. of cardio-vascular system.
It is preferable to stimulate the natural production of the vitamin in the body, and before taking preparations containing it, it is necessary to consult a specialist, since there are a number of contraindications (diseases and pathologies). thyroid gland, liver, kidneys, etc.).

A high level of cholesterol in the blood adversely affects the condition of all human organs, especially the heart and brain. Drink to lower cholesterol special preparations that reduce this figure.

Types of drugs and indications

Cholesterol is an organic compound present in the cell membranes of living organisms. If its plasma level is high, it begins to accumulate on the walls of blood vessels and form plaques. Created favorable environment for the appearance of blood clots - significant reason mortality.

To lower cholesterol, a special diet and a number of medications are used.

1. Statins. They inhibit a special enzyme, knocking down the indicator of harmful lipids in the blood.
2. Fibrates. Activate the enzyme lipoprotein lipase, which breaks down cholesterol.
3. Derivatives of nicotinic acid. Due to the normalization of metabolism, fat metabolism improves, excess cholesterol ceases to be produced.
4. Medicines of other groups. They bind bile acids or prevent fat from being absorbed or absorb it in the intestines.

There are also herbal remedies designed to lower cholesterol, and dietary supplements. Their actions are not always enough to remove the problem, sometimes only powerful pills will help. Indications for treatment are as follows:

• blood cholesterol above 6 mmol/l;
• the presence of diseases of the heart, blood vessels;
• diagnosed atherosclerosis;
• infarction, stroke in anamnesis.

Also, drugs will be needed to reduce "bad" lipids in diseases of the liver, pancreas, kidneys, in order to reduce the burden on organs.

Statins are first-generation drugs

These cholesterol pills are cheap, but their effectiveness is high. They block enzymes, without which cholesterol is not formed. There are several generations of drugs in this group, which differ in active substances.

The first generation of statins is represented by drugs based on simvastatin. It is well studied, its price is the lowest. Below are the main statins and their cost.

As you can see, there are very cheap drugs, while all of these statins from the list are analogues. Regular consumption lowers cholesterol. The dose is chosen individually, usually starting with 10 mg / day.

Second-generation drugs are based on fluvastatin. The best of them is Leskol Forte, however, its price is very high - 2800 rubles / 28 tablets. The action of the product is prolonged, mild, so it is more often recommended for diabetics. You can not be treated with them for allergies to peanuts, diseases of the biliary tract.

The latest generation of statins

If you choose very good pills from cholesterol, it is worth buying medicines of 3-4 generations. The third is represented by drugs with atorvastatin:

1. Atoris (from 370 rubles);
2. Torvacard (from 266 rubles);
3. Novostat (from 560 rubles), or Novostatin;
4. Tulip (from 660 rubles).

Atorvastatin lowers the level of low-density fats in the blood. It inhibits an enzyme that is involved in the early stages of cholesterol synthesis. Further, the activity of receptors is activated, which increase the rate of fat binding and removal from plasma. Also, the substance does not allow the inner lining of blood vessels to collapse, promotes the growth of “good” cholesterol.

The effect of all drugs is achieved after 2 weeks from the start of administration.

Also, the patient can be prescribed Atomax, Anvistat, Lipitor - they have the same active substance.

Very effective, but quite expensive drugs of the 4th generation. These are drugs with rosuvastatin, pitavastatin. The group includes Crestor, Akorta, Livazo, Mertenil, Rosart. The price for a month of admission varies from 1000 rubles. up to 3000 rub. Usually in the first month take 5-10 mg, then the dose is increased to 40 mg.

Fibrates are the best remedies

Fibrates normalize cholesterol, in parallel adjust its production and fat metabolism in general. They are taken separately from statins and should only be used together in very severe cases, such as familial hyperlipidemia (severe hereditary disease). Fibrates are especially indicated in diabetes.

The best medicines of the group are listed here:

The cost of drugs usually does not exceed 1500 rubles. During the treatment period, it is important to regularly monitor the level of lipids in the blood.

Vitamins and herbal medicines

Narrowing of the vessels of the brain, coronary arteries leads to increased deposition of lipids on the walls.

Nicotinic acid has vasodilating action, eliminates vascular spasms, reduces the rate of clogging of arteries with cholesterol.

Most often, nicotinic acid is prescribed in injections, but there are tablet forms - Niceritol, Enduracin, Acipimox.

In parallel, the risk of blood clotting and the appearance of blood clots is reduced, which minimizes the risk of death from a heart attack, stroke. Usually a 2-week treatment several times a year is enough to keep cholesterol normal in mild cases. When the state of the vessels is neglected, treatment is supplemented with statins or fibrates.

In folk medicine, for blood lipids, it is often advised to take garlic. There are Alisat garlic tablets (120 rubles), which have a range of beneficial effects:

• reduce the density of the blood;
• help dissolve plaques, blood clots;
• normalize cholesterol, blood pressure;
• reduce the risk of diabetes and stroke.

It is necessary to take tablets 1 twice / day, the course is 3 months. If there is a risk of bleeding, the drug should be discontinued.

Other drugs

After thorough examination and detecting slightly elevated cholesterol, the doctor may advise taking medications based on Omega-3, lipoic acid. The protection of blood vessels from harmful fats by these substances has already been proven. They are sold in the form of dietary supplements (Tykveol, Omega Forte, Sito Pren, Policosanol and others). Such drugs are inexpensive - 50-600 rubles. They can also be used to prevent hyperlipidemia from the age of 30-35 years.

Other cholesterol medicines are listed here:

These drugs are drunk in courses of 4 months, after which they take a break for a month. Thanks to improved fat metabolism the work of blood vessels is normalized, the pressure also returns to normal.

Side effects and contraindications

Most drugs carry a number of "side effects", which are more likely to occur in the presence of chronic diseases in patients. Among them:

When taking statins, it often appears skin rash, abdominal pain, intestinal disorders. From some drugs, pressure drops (for example, from nicotinic acid).

When taking statins, doctors do not advise eating grapefruits, drinking alcohol - they are not compatible.

Almost all drugs (except Omega-3) are contraindicated during pregnancy, lactation. Also contraindications are severe illness kidneys, liver, skeleton, muscles, stomach. Any medicine should be prescribed after passing the analysis - lipidogram.

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Everyone knows that high cholesterol levels in the blood can lead to serious problems. It is deposited in the vessels in the form of plaques, which increases the risk of a heart attack or stroke. But without this substance, the work of the body is impossible. Cholesterol is involved in metabolism, the synthesis of hormones, so it is important to maintain a balance in the body and carefully monitor its level. It is not necessary to drink handfuls of pills for this. To quickly reduce cholesterol without drugs, lifestyle and nutrition correction helps.

Cholesterol: harm or necessity

Cholesterol is one of the important components human body. Moreover, its excess is not only harmful, but also dangerous. As a result of hyperlipidemia ( increased content fats in the blood), plaques form, which eventually clog the vessels and lead to the following consequences:

• stroke;
• pulmonary embolism:
• heart attack;
• obliterating endarteritis;
• coronary death.

But we must not forget that lipids are part of the membranes, provide contacts between cells and strengthen them, facilitate the transmission of nerve impulses. They are playing important role in thermoregulation, act as a source of energy. Cholesterol supports work nervous system and muscles involved in metabolism. A decrease in its level occurs in such diseases:

• anemia;
• adrenal insufficiency;
• thyrotoxicosis ( hard work thyroid gland);
• malnutrition;
• liver diseases - hepatitis, cirrhosis.

Lack of cholesterol is fraught with psycho-emotional disorders, depression, osteoporosis, hemorrhagic stroke due to increased vascular permeability.

To overdo it with a decrease in lipids is no less dangerous than to allow them to increase. Regular diagnostics help to maintain the necessary balance. Doctors recommend checking cholesterol levels 1-2 times a year. For patients at risk, tests are prescribed more often - 2-4 times a year. These are people over 60 years of age, as well as those suffering from diseases of the cardiovascular system and hypertension, hepatitis, hypothyroidism and thyrotoxicosis, with a history of myocardial infarction and stroke.

Attention! Correction of hypercholesterolemia should be prescribed only by the attending physician, taking into account all the characteristics of the patient and concomitant diseases!

Ways to reduce without pills

With an increase in the level of cholesterol in the blood, it is not at all necessary to immediately take medications. On the initial stage The problem can be solved with a few simple steps.

The first thing to do is increase physical exercise. Running or other sports with monotonous rhythmic movements are especially effective. This normalizes the pulse, increases the flow of oxygen into the circulatory system, which contributes to the "burning" of fat. Reduces the risk of plaque formation.

Recommended for the elderly moderate loads– daily walks, cycling, light work on personal plot. According to research, this lifestyle old age reduces the risk of heart attack and stroke by 50%.

Attention! During exercise, control the pulse! In an elderly person, its growth should not exceed 15 strokes.

But exercise alone is not enough. The following recommendations must be followed:

1. Quit smoking. Under the influence of tobacco, the ratio of "good" and "bad" cholesterol changes for the worse.
2. Limit alcohol consumption. According to medical research, directly on the level of cholesterol in the blood, it affects slightly, but worsens the metabolism in the body.
3. Follow a special diet low content animal fats.
4. Do not neglect the means of traditional medicine. She offers a large number of recipes based on natural ingredients.
5. Control weight. Overweight people are more likely to face the problem of cholesterol imbalance.

The approach to lowering cholesterol levels must be comprehensive and ongoing. You can not get involved in short-term diets or periodic gymnastics. You need to change your lifestyle completely, this will help to avoid many health problems.

Food

You can also lower your cholesterol levels at home. Will help with this physical activity and getting rid of excess weight. To lose weight, you need to completely change your eating habits.

When adjusting the diet, you must adhere to the following principles:

• replace animal fats (lard, cheeses, butter and others) with vegetable ones;
• minimize your use easily digestible carbohydrates(sugar, cakes, sweets, cakes);
• Instead of regular baked goods, eat bread and biscuits based on oats and wholemeal bran or whole grains;
• eat more fish, seafood, fruits and vegetables.

This approach to nutrition will not only quickly reduce cholesterol levels, but also improve the entire body.

Attention! Patients diagnosed with diabetes or metabolic pathology, you should not count on home methods only! Any treatment option should be supervised by a physician.

Folk remedies

Traditional medicine offers many recipes for lowering lipid levels. Their use helps improve general state health, strengthen blood vessels, reduce the risk of cardiovascular complications.

Here are the most popular recipes:

1. Mix half a glass of dill seeds with a glass of honey and a spoonful of valerian root, pour 1 liter hot water. Insist for a day. Take three times a day for 1 tbsp. l. 20 minutes before a meal.
2. Squeeze 10 cloves of garlic, mix with two glasses olive oil. Insist a week. Add the resulting mixture to food instead of seasoning.
3. Squeeze juice from 1 kg of lemons, add 200 g of crushed garlic. Keep in a cold place in the dark for three days, drink 1 tbsp. l. per day, previously diluted with water.
4. Soak beans or peas in water overnight. In the morning, replace the water, add a pinch of soda, boil and eat in two doses. The duration of the course is 21 days.
5. Drink half an hour before meals 7 drops of 4% propolis tincture, diluted with water. It is recommended to continue treatment for four months.
6. Eat 20-25 alfalfa sprouts daily.
7. Add flaxseeds to your food.
8. Add 300 g of garlic to 200 g of alcohol and insist in the dark for seven days. Drinking this tincture is recommended three times a day. With each dose, you need to increase the number of drops from 2 to 20, and then decrease in the reverse order. The course of treatment is designed for a week, repeated every three years.

Attention! Before using any folk remedies make sure you are not allergic to any of the ingredients!

What Foods Lower Blood Cholesterol

With hyperlipidemia, eating cholesterol-lowering foods will help. Nature has given us many plants whose enzymes restore the balance of fats in the body. Let's figure out which foods lower cholesterol:

1. Avocado. Its use quickly normalizes metabolism.
2. Fatty fish varieties are the leader in the presence of fatty acids in the composition. Enough 200 g of marine fish per week to prevent blood clots and thin the blood.
3. Nuts and seeds of various plants - they increase the content of "good" lipids. The most useful are walnut, cedar and brazil nuts, almonds, cashews, pistachios, linseed and sesame seeds.
4. From vegetable oils effectively olive, soy and linseed. Only add oils to cooked food, and do not fry on them.
5. Fruits and berries are blue, purple and red. Their color is provided by polyphenols, which normalize blood balance, stimulate the liver, and help cleanse blood vessels.
6. Whole grains and oatmeal.
7. Citrus. They contain unique fibers that, when combined with gastric juice, “absorb” cholesterol and remove it from the body, help in the fight against various diseases.
8. All legumes contribute to the elimination of "bad" lipids through the stomach, due to their high fiber content. They are also rich in vegetable protein, which is easily digestible.
9. Carrot.
10. Garlic contains a lot of statins, phytoncides and is considered natural antibiotic. It is useful for hypercholesterolemia, but is not recommended for people with pathologies of the digestive tract.

It is advisable to add red rice to the diet, white cabbage and lots of fresh greens. All these natural "medicines" will help to quickly and without harm to the body to normalize the lipid balance. The positive effect will enhance the addition of decoctions from medicinal herbs.

Herbs

For mild hypercholesterolemia pharmaceuticals can be replaced with herbs. In the fight against "bad" cholesterol, decoctions and tinctures from such plants are used:

• "Dioscorea Caucasian". It strengthens blood vessels, improves heart function, and is used as a choleretic agent.
• "Golden mustache". it indoor plant with many useful properties. They treat diseases of the endocrine system, atherosclerosis, prostatitis.
• Liquorice root. It is taken for three weeks, after which they take a month break.
• Alfalfa. This plant eliminates hypercholesterolemia. Juice is made from its leaves and drunk for a month, 2 tablespoons three times a day.

You can also use general strengthening decoctions of hawthorn, linden, dandelion, jaundice, milk thistle, plantain, thistle and other herbs. There are a lot of them and here are the most common in use.

Several simple tips, which will help to quickly and safely reduce lipid levels to normal:

• replace coffee with green tea;
• do not snack on sandwiches with butter;
• enter soy products and sea fish into the diet;
• Eat pork fat, but in small quantities and, preferably, with garlic. It will quickly remove excess fat from the body;
• try to replace saturated fat vegetable oils.

Another one useful advice- juice therapy. Freshly squeezed vegetable and fruit juices effectively rid the body of "bad" lipids. With their help, the vessels at home are cleaned the fastest. You can drink juices in courses for five days, alternating squeezed from different vegetables and fruits. But before use, they must be diluted with water.

Summing up, it is worth emphasizing the danger of formation of cholesterol plaques in the vessels. This can be the initial stage of life-threatening illnesses. Simple steps can help you avoid negative consequences: proper nutrition, physical exercises, quitting smoking and alcohol. In addition, pay attention to the body and do a blood test every six months. Normal level"bad" cholesterol - from 4 to 5.2 mmol / l. If these figures are higher, consult a doctor as soon as possible, who will help you choose adequate treatment and preventive measures.