Cholesterol, a lipid naturally processed by the liver, is an essential component of the human body. Yet, it has a bad reputation.
This is down to certain types of cholesterol - most notably low-density lipoprotein - contributing to arterial plaque build-up which sets the stage for heart attack and stroke.
While statins remain one of the most effective defences against these ailments, widespread misconceptions deter many individuals from taking them.
However, during a conversation with GB News, Dr Natasha Fernando from Medichecks reassured that the likelihood of side effects remains exceptionally rare.
Adding fatty fish to the diet is recommended for patients with high cholesterol
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The occurrence of muscle pain alone affects 11 in 1000 people on statins, as demonstrated in a 2022 meta-analysis published in the Lancet.
"Muscle pain is quite a common symptom," said Dr Fernando. "Quite a few of us experience it anyway, and studies have demonstrated that the occurrence of muscle pain is similar in those who are not taking statins."
She added that reports of patients going on to develop the more serious condition of rhabdomyolysis are "virtually unheard of".
Another common concern she addressed is the potential link between statins and type 2 diabetes.
"There is research showing that there may be an increase but that increase is quite small," she explained. "The risk is far outweighed by the benefits of preventing heart attack and strokes."
While statins alone can reduce bad cholesterol levels by up to 50 per cent, lifestyle changes alone may not provide sufficient control.
Patients with moderately high cholesterol levels, however, may benefit from adopting targeted dietary strategies, explained Dr Fernando.
"Foods like oats, beans, lentils, flaxseeds can help reduce LDL by up to 10 per cent," she said. "Being more plant-focussed in your diet will also help."
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Cholesterol levels can be checked with a blood testPAAdditionally, it's imperative that people opt for the right types of fat, replacing saturated fats with healthier alternatives like olive oil, nuts and oily fish.
Fortified foods containing stanols and sterols offer support by competing with cholesterol for absorption in the gut.
Regular exercise is also crucial, with Dr Fernando recommending 150 minutes of moderate activity weekly, such as walking and cycling.
She added: "Losing just 10 per cent of your body weight if you're overweight due to carrying excess body fat, can significantly improve your cholesterol profile."
