Q. I was prescribed statins for high cholesterol levels in the blood and have been taking it consistently. What else should I be taking?

A. Statins, the medications used for lowering elevated blood cholesterol levels, were prescribed to you based on the high cholesterol profile. Although side effects have been reported, statin is still widely used by cardiovascular patients as it has been proven to lower levels of the "bad" cholesterol, LDL, and thus prevent plaque build-up in the arteries.

For your condition, in addition to the statin medication you are taking, coenzyme Q-10 (Co Q-10) supplementation is highly recommended. Clinical use of statins can be made safer and possibly more effective by the addition of coenzyme Q-10. This is because studies have found that even short exposure to statins clearly lowers blood plasma levels of Co Q-10. Co Q-10 is necessary for ATP production in human metabolism and is an important antioxidant in human oxidation defence systems.

Diet and lifestyle also play an important role in maintaining heart health. Maintaining a healthy body weight by shedding excess visceral fats will reduce your chances of an arterial blockage. Regular exercise strengthens the heart, improves circulation and lowers blood pressure.

Learn to control stress by adopting new ways to relax such as deep breathing exercises, muscle relaxing techniques, meditation or yoga. Follow a well-balanced diet low in fats, salt, and cholesterol. Lowering your intake of fat cuts your risk of arterial disease. Quit smoking. This is a key step in managing arterial disease.

• Readers are advised to always consult expert advice before undertaking any changes to their lifestyles. The New Straits Times does not give any warranty on accuracy, completeness, functionality, usefulness or other assurances as to the content appearing in this column. The New Straits Times disclaims all responsibility for any losses, damage to property or personal injury suffered directly or indirectly from reliance on such information.
  

This story was first published in The New Straits Times on Apr 21, 2008.