Cholesterol: the 'star' medication to lower it and why a healthy diet is not enough, according to a doctor
Cardiologist Jorge Tartaglione emphasizes the importance of statins for managing cholesterol levels, noting that diet alone often isn't sufficient to mitigate health risks.
In a recent appearance on LN+, cardiologist Jorge Tartaglione discussed the critical role of statins in lowering cholesterol levels and preventing serious health issues like heart attacks and neurodegenerative diseases. He explained how statins work by inhibiting an enzyme that leads to cholesterol production in the liver, effectively reducing cholesterol levels in patients, including those who may be at risk even with a healthy diet.
Tartaglione elaborated on the fact that while diet and exercise play a significant role in cholesterol management, they may not be enough for everyone. He highlighted that approximately 30% of cholesterol comes from dietary sources, while the rest is often produced genetically by the liver. This is particularly relevant for certain groups, such as vegetarians, who might still face high cholesterol levels despite their eating habits.
Additionally, Tartaglione expressed concern about the prevalence of misinformation concerning medical treatments. He noted that the spread of fake news can be alarming, especially regarding health topics such as cholesterol management, which might lead to harmful decisions among patients who might avoid necessary medical treatments.