Summary: Is cholesterol that important? What are some of the adverse side effects of statins? Are they overprescribed? Is red yeast rice an acceptable alternative? What about other popular cholesterol-lowerers like niacin, policosanol, garlic, pantetheine, and guggulipids? Dr. Guilliams describes two “new kids on the block” for cholesterol management: berberine and bergamot. Do they provide additional benefits besides lowering cholesterol? Are there any side effects? Can they be safely taken with statins? What other supplements complement these agents for comprehensive cardiovascular prevention? Is lowering homocysteine still important?
