What Can I Do to Reduce Consistently Elevated LDL Cholesterol?

by Dr. David Williams

Filed Under: Heart Health, Cholesterol, Q&As

Last Reviewed 10/24/2012

I have a problem with my cholesterol levels. My LDL cholesterol remains somewhat higher than normal, and my HDL is a little on the low side. Generally, I feel pretty good except I'm constantly tired. My cholesterol levels bother me because my family has a history of heart disease. Are there any options I could look into?

 

Not knowing your age or your cholesterol readings, I'm at a disadvantage when it comes to making additional suggestions. There is one component, however, that you may be overlooking.

Constant fatigue and elevated LDL cholesterol levels are all signs of hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid gland).

Several years ago, Dr. Broda Barnes reported that the serum lipid (fat) changes brought on by hypothyroidism leads to atherosclerosis and heart disease. Even though numerous studies have confirmed his discovery, hypothyroidism is still very often overlooked.

The current medical test for hypothyroidism consists of checking various blood hormone levels. The standard test, however, fails to pick up most cases of what is referred to as "subclinical" hypothyroidism. Those with subclinical hypothyroidism often go untreated. They live with constant fatigue, the inability to lose weight, skin sensitivities, the inability to concentrate, and a long list of other symptoms related to an underactive thyroid.

Dr. Barnes developed a simple test to determine if hypothyroidism is present. I would suggest that your doctor evaluate you for possible hypothyroidism.

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For more than 25 years, Dr. David Williams has traveled the world researching alternative therapies for our most common health problems—therapies that are inexpensive and easy to use, and therapies that treat the root cause of a problem rather than just its symptoms. More About Dr. Williams

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