FAQs

1. I've just started taking Lipitor® for high cholesterol. Should I be taking coenzyme Q10 too?

Coenzyme Q10 is involved in producing energy, protecting cells from damage, and many other body processes. While a small amount comes from the diet, most is made in the body. Lipitor® (atorvastatin) and other statins can block the production of coenzyme Q10, leading to coenzyme Q10 deficiency. Symptoms include low energy, high blood pressure, heart problems, and a weakened immune system. Taking a coenzyme Q10 supplement may help treat or prevent the deficiency. Talk to your pharmacist about whether a coenzyme Q10 supplement is right for you.

2. At my last physical, my doctor told me to eat a healthier diet to help with my cholesterol. Which foods should I eat? Which ones should I avoid?

Trade unhealthy fats such as saturated fats, trans fats, and cholesterol for healthy fats such as unsaturated fats and omega-3 fatty acids. Try to get 5 to 10 servings of fruit and vegetables per day and eat high-fibre foods, such as bran, whole grains and beans. Choose low-fat dairy products and lean meats over higher-fat choices.

Remember, when making a diet change, it's easier to do things in moderation. You don't have to give up sweets completely - just don't eat as many. Talk to your doctor, dietitian, or pharmacist for more information.

3. How do I know if my cholesterol levels are too high?

The first step is to visit your doctor for a cholesterol test. For people over 30, a total cholesterol greater than 5.2 is considered high. For those under 30 a total cholesterol greater than 4.7 is considered high. (In Canada, cholesterol is measured in mmol/L. To convert to American values (mg/dL), multiply by 38.7.)

However, these are general guidelines - your own target depends on your age and heart disease risk. Your doctor will develop a personalized treatment plan for you based on your risk level and cholesterol target.

4. Is chelation therapy a safe and effective way to lower my cholesterol?

Chelation therapy has not been well studied as a treatment for high cholesterol. This treatment involves injecting a substance called EDTA into the veins, where it binds to (chelates) and removes substances from the bloodstream.

There has been some research into using it for atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), a common complication of high cholesterol and an early sign of heart disease. These studies did not show promising results. As well, chelation therapy may cause kidney damage, seizures, bone marrow damage, heart rhythm problems, allergic reactions, and dangerously low blood pressure.

5. After I got my cholesterol test results, my doctor told me to quit smoking. What's the connection between smoking and high cholesterol?

There are two main reasons why your doctor might suggest that you quit smoking. First, smoking can decrease levels of HDL, the "good" cholesterol that helps clean fat out of the arteries, and increase levels of triglycerides, a type of fat that can become harmful if levels get too high. Second, smoking can increase the risk of heart disease by 70%. People with high cholesterol are already at an increased risk of heart disease, and smoking will only make this risk higher. Talk to your pharmacist for advice on how to quit.