What are statin drugs?

Statin drugs are one of the most common drugs prescribed by doctors to control cholesterol. The body uses a small amount of cholesterol in the blood to help build the structure of cell membranes, produce adrenal hormones, and other substances such as estrogen and testosterone, as well as vitamin D. Cholesterol, sufficient for bodily use, is manufactured by the liver, and then goes into the bloodstream. Excess cholesterol, mainly from unhealthy food sources, also ends up in the liver, which is not equipped to produce its own cholesterol, as well as process the unhealthy cholesterol from a poor diet. This can lead to fatty liver disease and other more serious problems.

Statins are prescribed to fight off the plaque in the arteries, which builds up from bad cholesterol, and also prevent good circulation in the body.

The link between statins, high cholesterol, and erectile dysfunction

The dangers of high cholesterol (the bad kind – LDL) include clogged arteries with fatty deposits, hindering blood flow to all parts of the body, including the genitals, which need a good blood flow for sexuality. Studies have shown that in addition to reducing the blood flow to the genitals and potentially contributing to erectile dysfunction (ED) issues, clogged arteries may also affect heart health and put you at a higher risk of a heart attack.

More research has pointed to the fact that statins, although working on clogged arteries and inhibiting the production of cholesterol in the liver, can interfere with the production of testosterone. Testosterone is produced mainly in the testicles, and in addition to needing a good flow, they also need a measure of cholesterol for proper development of this hormone. Studies have also indicated that men who take statins may have low testosterone (T) issues to contend with.

Symptoms of low T can include:

• Loss of libido
  
• Reduced fertility
  
• Mood swings
  
• Muscle weakness

Checking with your doctor can put things more in perspective for you.

A healthy lifestyle

Experts agree that a healthy lifestyle and a good diet can help to reduce LDL cholesterol, and over time has been known to lower the strength needed in the prescribed statin meds. It has been noted that the recommended diet and lifestyle changes to lower cholesterol, are virtually the same as those advised to help counter ED. These include:

• Choosing lean meat and chicken, which will cut out lots of unhealthy fats.
  
• Eat fresh fruit on a daily basis, as well as plenty of leafy green vegies.
  
• Fish such as mackerel, sardines, and salmon. These fatty fish also contain omega 3, excellent for your health.
  
• Get regular exercise, which burns up calories and fat deposits in your body.
  
• If you are a smoker, you can save your life by quitting.

None of these things are difficult to do. It would seem that there is very little to choose between statin drugs and cholesterol. Both have their pros and cons. Following the doctor’s advice is always a good idea.  However, a good lifestyle and a healthy diet can only be of benefit to your health and general well-being.

We can help

If your libido has taken a knock for any reason at all, we can help. Herbal Remedies International have taken some potent natural herbs, and developed excellent formulas to help combat low libido issues. Our products are safe to take, and do not need a doctor’s script. 

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