There are a number of genetic, dietary, and lifestyle factors that may contribute to an individual developing high cholesterol levels. One type of cholesterol, HDL, is desired in high concentrations; however, its low-density counterpart has negative effects on the body. Many people choose to use pharmacological agents in the statins class to help regulate their cholesterol levels, but there is a simvastatin alternative method of treatment for those who do not wish to choose the typical treatment route. Simvastatin alternatives include specific lifestyle changes and nonmedical supplements.
Hypercholesterolemia, or high cholesterol, is a potentially deadly disease. Although cholesterol is necessary for cellular maintenance and other essential functions, excessively high levels can cause a plethora of cardiovascular issues. Among these issues are hardened arteries known as atherosclerosis, as well as the clotting of blood vessels. These ailments are two of the many that may impede blood flow throughout the body.
If a person is suffering from high cholesterol, it is important that he or she consult a physician. This disease is internal, so the best way to know of any changes in cholesterol levels is to be tested regularly. If the doctor is concerned about the levels of a patient, he or she may choose to manage cholesterol with a medication such as simvastatin. If a patient is not comfortable with the medicated regimen, he or she may choose a simvastatin alternative.
Simvastatin utilizes a mechanism that inhibits the hormone responsible for generating cholesterol. Alternative measures do not necessarily act on the cellular level. Rather, implementing lifestyle changes can help to manage dangerously high cholesterol.
The most typical simvastatin alternative prescribed by a medical doctor or an alternative medicine professional is regular exercise and diet management. Exercise helps to improve cardiovascular function, counteracting the negative effects of low-density cholesterol. Typically, the minimum exercise duration is 30 minutes, and this should be of a cardiovascular nature rather than strength training. This should be done at a minimum of three times a week to experience any sort of benefit.
Diets high in saturated fats and oils increase cholesterol levels, so it is obvious that regulating such intake along with increasing good food may both work in favor of lowering cholesterol. Eating whole grains and lean meats while minimizing fatty foods are all manners in which diet can act as a simvastatin alternative. Additionally, there has been an increasingly significant amount of research suggesting the benefits of fish oil supplements in lowering cholesterol levels.