John Arts Abundant Living www.johnarts.co.nz

In 2009, a University of California study analysed the data of more than 130,000 people hospitalised in the USA, who were admitted with heart attacks. Surprisingly they found about 75 per cent had normal or lower levels of cholesterol. During the years many have contacted me about ‘natural' methods to balance cholesterol. My initial response is cholesterol is only one risk factor and there are many others to consider.

When I complete a cardiovascular nutritional assessment, I look at all the risk factors including cholesterol, blood sugar control, weight management, homocysteine levels, systemic inflammation, general diet – especially antioxidant and mineral status – and family and medical history.

There are many natural compounds that have been shown to influence cholesterol. The most common are plant sterols, high-dose vitamin B3 (niacin), fish oils, red rice yeast extract, gugulipid and policosanol. The problem is these generally are only partially effective and then only in some people.

A clinical trial compared these various natural compounds with a US-patented formula Sytrinol. The results show Sytrinol had significantly greater impact on cholesterol balance than these other compounds as reflected in total cholesterol, Low-Density Lipoprotein cholesterol and triglycerides.

While most people can take Sytrinol, it will probably have the greatest application for people who have high cholesterol but are otherwise healthy but prefer not to use statin medications.

Interestingly, two of my clients showed Sytrinol information to their GP, who then suggested they went on a three-month trial as both were badly affected by statin medications. To assess benefits I recommend a three-month trial on the full dose of two capsules daily, followed by a new blood test. Give me a call if you need more information. To join my weekly newsletter go to www.johnarts.co.nz and visit www.abundant.co.nz

John Arts is a qualified nutritional therapist and founder of Abundant Health. Contact John on 0800 423 559. To read more, go to www.sunlive.co.nz