More Americans take statin drugs than any other prescription medication.
This is true even though study after study shows these cholesterol-lowering drugs have little benefit for the vast majority of people who take them. And they often cause serious side effects such as memory loss, muscle pain, and diabetes.[i]
Statins are supposed to work by lowering your “bad” LDL cholesterol. But a new study finds that one fruit improves your LDL cholesterol profile in a way that statins can’t…and without side effects.
The research was published in the Journal of Nutrition. Scientists put 45 participants on three different diets. Each subject spent five weeks on each one. One of the diets included eating an avocado each day.
The avocado diet led to lower levels of oxidized LDL cholesterol and small, dense LDL. These are the two worst forms of LDL.
Both oxidized and small, dense LDL particles are associated with plaque build-up in artery walls. That leads to atherosclerosis, heart disease, and potentially a heart attack or stroke.
The avocado diet was also linked to higher levels of lutein, an antioxidant. The researchers think lutein could be responsible for the reduced levels of oxidized LDL.
Unlike avocados, statin drugs only lower total cholesterol—not the specific cholesterol types that actually damage arteries. They don’t target oxidized and high-density LDL the way avocados do.
Professor Penny Kris-Etherton led the study. She said avocados “are such a nutrient-rich package. I think we’re just beginning to learn about how they can improve health.” [ii]
Avocados: Nature’s Statin
Make avocados a staple of your diet. Here’s an easy delicious recipe for avocado salad.
Simple Avocado Salad Recipe
Ingredients
2 tablespoons chopped red onion
1 ½ tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 ½ tablespoons lime juice
4 cups baby arugula
1 large diced, peeled ripe avocado
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon salt
Preparation
Combine onion, olive oil, and lime juice in a small bowl. Stir with a whisk. Add avocado. Toss gently to mix. Divide the arugula onto 4 salad plates. Evenly distribute the avocado mix between the plates. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Why take statins with their questionable benefits and dangerous side effects when there’s a safe, effective natural alternative?
Editor’s Note: If you’re concerned about heart disease, there’s something you should know: Research shows the standard mainstream medical treatments to prevent heart attacks—stents and statin drugs—don’t work. Learn what does work by reading our monthly journal, Independent Healing. It’s your best source for science-based health advice. Read it HERE.
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[i]https://www.institutefornaturalhealing.com/2018/04/americans-ever-take-statins-heart-disease-epidemic-keeps-growing/
[ii]https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2019/10/191028104136.htm