Cholesterol numbers are actually just ONE of the many rick factors for cardiovascular disease. In fact, cholesterol is actually needed by every cell in the body to function properly.  In some cases, the body is making too much, or the person is eating more cholesterol than their body needs for use.  The common answer for this in conventional medicine is to put a patient on a statin drug or other medication.

Medications for cholesterol lowering typically have negative side effects including muscle cramps, weakness, and fatigue.  There is actually research indicating these medications can INCREASE the likelihood of developing Diabetes.

Dr. Teresa recommends:

  • Get your cholesterol levels checked yearly as part of your annual physical
  • If you already have cholesterol issues, more frequent lab tests should be done to track your progress. It takes about 3 months for cholesterol levels to change in a significant manner once starting a new treatment plan.
  • Carefully review ALL of your cardiovascular health risk factors with your health practitioner
  • Don’t get bullied into taking a medication. Many people have successfully changed their cholesterol AND heart disease risk factors using nutrition, lifestyle and natural medicines
  • Request specialty lab tests to get a more complete picture of your cardiovascular health. This could include tests like: NMR-lipoprofile, Homocysteine, High Sensitivity C-Reactive protein.

Diabetes and Blood Sugar Issues

Dr. Teresa helps people manage blood sugar issues with nutrition, lifestyle, herbal supplements and medications.

It is very important to monitor blood sugar levels, especially if you have a strong family history of Diabetes or as a woman have had gestational diabetes. My goal is always to prevent problems and catch issues early.

Dr. Teresa recommends:

  • Yearly blood sugar and Hemoglobin A1c measurements as part of your annual physical
  • Don’t wait to be seen if you experience unexplained increases in thirst, urination, changes in energy, sweating, numbness and tingling
  • For patients with diabetes: be consistent with your medications and monitoring. Create a routine that works for you to prevent problems with high or low blood sugar.  Compliance to a routine can be difficult, so ask for help!
  • DO NOT stop your medications without medical supervision. Of course, I say this about most medications in general. There can be severe and negative health consequences when medications are not used properly.  If you are thinking of getting off your medications, let’s make a custom plan for you to taper safely!