After 5 years on a statin and feeling crappy, I stopped it, started Metamucil (sugar free) morning and evening, cut out refined carbs, increased exercise. Lost 20 lbs(which I never could on the statin) and cholesterol is normal. Within a week, felt less foggy, stronger, and that was before the exercise increased. Got to keep it up tho😊
I love how you end each video with "remember you are in charge of your own health." And many thanks for providing helpful, researched information and for having excellent guest doctors. I have recommended your channel to my nurse practitioner and others. cheers
Hi guys! I take Metamucil and a statin and my cholesterol is well-controlled. I was on the statin first and started Metamucil for GI reasons several years later-incidental discovery, my levels are better since adding Metamucil to the regimen. I actually take either Metamucil or generic psyllium husk capsules. I can’t stand the gritty texture of reconstituted bulk psyllium husks in water or juice. So much easier to take 5 capsules 2-3 times a day. Efficacy is the same. Thanks for all your great teaching! Retired critical care nurse (45 years), so I appreciate your wonderful and educational videos so much!
Another great subect. I had high holesterol for 4 years, and start taking Metamucil January this year, within 3 months my cholesterol went to normal levels and I lost weight. In my case I cut off sugar ( I buy the orange (no sugar added) from Costco ( great deal ), stick to low carbs food. In time you can re adjust the dose as your body changes.
I don't have a cholesterol problem, but I do use Metamucil to move food along and avoid getting constipated. I believe this helps prevent colon problems
I have been taking Mira Lax for years and still having bouts of constipation and then diarrhea for about 4 days. After having a colonoscopy, the doctor stated that I needed to start taking Metamucil. I have been taking it for about a month and have found that I have been having regular bowel movements and they have the correct density. I did not know that it reduces cholesterol so I found your information to be very enlightening. Thank you for discussing this topic.
Wonderful video guys. both my wife and I have been taking Meta Mucil for about 2 years. We are in our early 70's, eat well, mostly plant based foods and see our doctor every 3 months for blood test results. We recently had our cholesterol checked and the report showed elevated levels across the board. But the Doctor says its not high enough to worry. But we do, have and are concerned. While trying to find more evidence to what we may be doing wrong, I came to todays video. the one thing we see we may be doing wrong is the timing of when we take the Meta Mucil. We had separated our fat soluble supplements with our water soluble ones to take at different times, for better absorption but we were taking the Meta Mucil pre meal with supplements that need food. This might be the very thing we have been doing wrong. Thanks to you channel we are now going to take our Meta Mucil completely apart from every other thing. We had our doctor re test the cholesterol in 3 months to see how we are doing. I will continue to look for other reasons, but this just might be the cause of our high numbers. Thank you, no one else ever said to take it alone.
I’m just gonna post my numbers. This happened in 9 months! Feb 2024 Tot Chol 271, Cal LDL 209 Nov 2024 Tot Chol 167, Cal LDL 106 I am severely intolerant to statins. I achieved these results by strict intermittent fasting (eating between 11-7). I take Zetia daily. I also take 3 Red Yeast Rice and 3 Metamucil Capsules daily. This is my truth. I hope this helps someone out there.
Read yeast rice, is actually what all the statin's are based on. So you are not 100% intolerant towards statins! 😉 And as statins are way cheaper than quality brands selling red yest rice....I would recommend saving money, by trying another statin, and remember to start out with lowest dose at first! 😉 Rosuvastatin and Atorvastatin, is the most popular ones.
@@danieljrgensen133 I was put on Pravastatin first and then Rosuvastatin second. I had severe muscle cramping to both of them. Rosuvastatin was more severe than the Pravastatin!
@@-What-are-your-thoughtsDietary cholesterol or serum cholesterol? These are not the same. Dietary cholesterol does not matter so much, they briefly mention how Dietary cholesterol isn't the issue as much as de novo synthesis. LdL cholesterol the real subject in this video(apob is a much better test) is best controlled by limiting excess calories by processed carbs AND saturated fat( with a small few exceptions for some saturated fats found in plant sources.)
I take medicine every night.Regardless of whatever's going on in my life.I've been taking it for 20 years.Never missed a day.Love it my LDL.Is forty four
I’m with you Dr. Zalzal! Starting psyllium husk today! I presently take ezetimibe daily and will 🤞that psyllium husk enhances my results. Thanks to both of you for all the education! I’m a registered nurse of many years and still here to learn all I can👏
Metamucil has been a great help with my lymphocytic colitis, a mild colitis. The gastroenterologist's only suggestion to me was Pepto Busmol, which I used a lot of, and it didn't help at all. My colitis symptoms were, after eating foods with roughage (apples especially), having a stomach/gut ache at 3:30-4 a.m., and then very loose stools. Metamucil alleviates all these symptoms, one scoop before breakfast or during the day, it's been wonderful for me.
I’ve been taking one tablespoon per day for a couple of years and it’s really helped calm down some bowel problems. I will say I’m also a bit sensitive to the acid contained in the orange flavoring, but just drink around a glass and a half of water helps, as does not drinking it around bedtime.
I am in the group that is very happy we have modern medical science and pharmaceuticals and will do anything to lower cholesterol. I am in great health, very fit, great diet and I still need and take a statin. I started taking Metamucil a few years ago following a colonoscopy. It works great! It is both good for my digestion and the blood lipids are the best they have ever been.
I like modern medicine and pharmaceuticals too. people always gripe about big Pharma until they get really sick and have a heart attack or need cancer medication.
I just found you guys! 💃. My cholesterol has always been 220 or higher. At 237 doc was talking about putting me on meds I started taking Fatty15 (C15) went down to 189! I stopped for about 1 month, it went back to 237. Im taking Fatty15 again. I'm definitely going to look into metamucil! It's a lot cheaper. Thanks for an informative video ❤
I started taking Metamucil 13 years ago after my triple bypass; the gastroenterologist recommended it because I was not "regular" anymore. It works to relieve constipation for me. I've tried psyllium husk fiber but it does not dissolve as well and it certainly does not taste good. I get the sugar free version of Metamucil. My overall cholesterol has been great with low LDL and triglycerides if I eat lentils regularly. I swear lentils lower triglycerides! I do have a boring diet, though! I take two double doses of Metamucil daily.
Long time psyillium taker. Morphed to daily capsules(10) with other supplements and lots of water. Most of the world’s psyillium supply comes from India. It is classed as a plant and not a food. Therefore it is sprayed. I moved on from Metamucil to an organic capsule. I get a monthly supply from Amazon. More expensive than Metamucil but who knows what they spray on the psyllium plant in India .
My cholesterol was 230 which shocked my dr because I am a small female very active with exercise and good blood pressure. I stopped eating Oreos, my treat after a long run, and added broccoli & oatmeal daily. My last test taken in October 24 has it at 158. Whew
I have very high LDL but low triglycerides and eat super healthy and I'm a triathlete that trains 5-6 days a week. Will not take statins though, so happy to try alternatives
With red yeast rice, activity and losing weight, and diet change, I was able to lower my ldl to 7 pts away from normal. No side effects with the red yeast rice. Took 2x/day, OTC at pharmacy, in with the vitamins
@@LindaC616 Good day Linda, Just recently found out about red yeast rice, but saw that it has side effects. Can you kindly tell me your story of it. do you take a supplement, of the food its self? how did you learn of it. sorry maybe you age? lol . My wife and I are early 70s, in real good shape but still have higher than we like cholesterol. Not high enough for meds according to our doctor. Appreciate any time you may have to share, Thank you, stay safe and healthy
@southerncomfort971 Well, it's good that it doesn't worry the docs! I heard about it through a dietitian. Have struggled with my weight my whole life, and when my numbers were done in my 40s, my doctor recommended I work with her because the weight was on an upswing, and the cholesterol numbers were at 253, with low triglycerides. Until 3 years ago, I've always had low triglycerides, regardless of my weight (I've been eating a low fat diet since I was 28 or so). So I started taking the red yeast rice and in conjunction with losing 84 lbs through the diet and exercise, along with red yeast rice, which I took in two capsules, I got my cholesterol down to 213. Absolutely zero side effects. In a rare fluke, I also got it down a little bit lower because, when my weight loss hit a wall an endocrinologist tried me on metformin.That was incredible! My cholesterol was almost normalized and my HDL went through the roof! (Somewhere around 70/80, IIRC). However, it did not help with weight loss, so I quit taking metformin. I would say to give it a try. I had 0 side effects, and if you buy one small bottle for the 2 of you to take 2 capsules a day, try it for a month and see. You can always quit taking it. CVS frequently has it on sale as a BOGO, and as long as you're not taking any other medicines that affect the liver you should be fine. If it works, let me know!
i am taking psyllium husk daily. it helps to lower my cholesterol about 10%. i tried the lipitor and zetia before, both of them cause my eczema flare-up. psyllium husk isn't as effect as lipitor or zetia but it lower my cholesterol to an acceptable level and my skin accepts it well.
Your vids are always informative, entertaining and oft times rather timely. At my last physical almost 3 years ago my blood work showed my ldl to be a touch high. Not enough to warrant a mention by my doc but I wanted to try and lower it. I have eaten Bran Buds semi regularly with my breaky for a long time but with this slightly higher ldl I started eating more. My next physical is Monday and I am curious to see where the ldl is now. Keep up the good work here fellas.
Gummies never worked for me. Metamucil Orange with sugar... YES with sugar worked best. Lower weight, excellent bowel Routine. After many years of Problems Thank You Jesus...
I reduced my LDL-C 23% over a year by adding Metamucil and also reducing alcohol, so I’m a convert. I originally started taking it to deal with bulking up my stools but I believe it has also helped with my lipid numbers. I was not on statins so this 23% is entirely lifestyle and diet.
I have no ileum due to bowel resections, Crohn’s Disease. It took awhile to figure out why my LDL was so super low. This video had a great explanation as to what happens when the bile acids are not reabsorbed. The bad side effect is that I need to take a bile acid binder to prevent irritation of the intestines and constant bathroom trips.
Interesting points! It’s amazing how much misinformation is out there. 'Health and Beauty Mastery' by Julian Bannett totally changed my perspective on what we’re told about health and wellness. Highly recommend for anyone who wants the full story!
I just started drinking the orange sugar-free Metamucil two days ago. It is pretty tasty. I haven’t noticed any bloating or upset stomach yet… I only started with one tablespoon and you are supposed to work your way up.
Love you guys! I’m going to try the psyllium - already in Rosuvastatin (5 mg,) but it wouldn’t hurt to get the LDL a little lower. Dr Zalzal, start really slowly!
In 1991, when I was 43, my doctor told me that he used psyllium every day, and suggested that I do the same. I am now 76 years old, have been using psyllium ever since, and my LDL levels have always tested as being very low. Regarding the taste, my wife and I now look at it as dessert: mixing plain psyllium with (reduced fat) milk makes a concoction that tastes somewhat like a vanilla milkshake, and mixing the orange-flavored psyllium with milk makes it at least somewhat tolerable.
I take Metamucil daily and it has definitely helped me with regular bowel movements. Which in turn helps my overall health factors. I bring it with me when we travel so I can continue to take it daily.
Using psyllium, overnight sprouted whole oats with chia seed added has helped lower my cholesterol levels. They were creeping into high territory but are now in normal range.
How many times have I written in saying how wonderful you Doc’s are ♥️ and how valuable the info you impart to us is. I’m a 64 year ol’ gal who has “slower” sometimes sluggish digestive tract (GERD, hiatal hernia etc). I use Metamucil premium daily and can’t say enough about how it’s helped me with elimination (no real cholesterol issues for me). I was told years ago, via a lecturing elderly GI Doctor at the U of A hospital, that if everyone over the age of 30 took Metamucil (with proper hydration as well) that society would have fewer colon cancer and GI tract issues. LOVE your channel. Thank you for everything you do. PS .. I’m still an old AC/DC fan 😉
I’d like to know if others have knee and joint pain from taking a statin. My knee pain got so bad I could hardly walk. I stoped taking it and I’ve got mobility back again. Making loosing the weight easier.
I was prescribed Roustuvastatin and developed joint and muscle pain. So was switched to Mar-Ezetimibe and Metamucil. Lowered cholesterol enough to be able to cut the medication in half. Metamucil also aided in easy bowl movements 😂👍
Sooo confused about cholesterol. Did Keto, my numbers went thru the roof! Some doc’s say no prob some say a huge problem. Going back to a low fat diet that I lived by for 20 years.
I had the exact same problem. Did the low carb with high animal fats, while my a1/c lowered, my blood lipids doubled. I am now eating a more Mediterranean style diet and eating more fiber foods, I hope it helps, my next labs are in April 2025.
@@prestomattwine…High insulin levels create inflammation which damage the arteries walls, that’s what you want to prevent. Cholesterol is there to repair the damage. Please look into this.
I have been using psyllium for over 20 years, 2 tablespoons daily half ground psyllium and half ground flax seed, and critical, a large glass of water. Great for the digestion system. Important to drink a large drink of water with/after taking it. I don't take it around meds time, give it space. I buy psyllium in bulk but not in the canned packaged, can be bought much cheaper online in a sealed bag and never the awful orange concoctions. Knock it back fairly quickly since it will become gluey, not a desirable experience. If you are new to it, perhaps start with a lower dose and increase over a week or two. Just my personal experience with success.
About 6 months ago I started taking Metamucil especially for lowering cholesterol which has been sneaking up 😢 (76 yo female). My Doc gave me 4 months before next bloodwork to reassess cholesterol. My hopes were dashed when it had increased instead of lowering. I’m now on a minimal dose of statins plus regular Metamucil. Just had repeat bloodwork and will be going back to Doc for results soon. Fingers crossed. PS, BMs are spectacular 😂
During chemo, emergency room doctors recommended PEG, and my husband, who had high cholesterol and BP from a young age, also used PEG daily for years. Does it have the same effect on cholesterol as metamucil?
I’d be interested seeing a video on Taurine.. I seen in comments someone indicated it helped them with essential tremors and a lot of positive things on other issues. Thx
I am on blood thinners so will not try, I had not heard of this alternative and GP did not advise. I was prescribed S’s about a year ago and wow did the numbers correct to very good levels, so S works for me. I take dietary supplements and eat and exercise well. Another excellent information video.
Metamucil has been a game-changer for my son and me! It's helped us keep our cholesterol levels in check. Dr. Zalzal, the humor you bring to your talks makes the content engaging and even more enjoyable. They add a refreshing touch that resonates with many of us. Thank you for making learning enjoyable!
Thank you thank you for your information I have high cholesterol and I've been taking Metamucil for many years now. After my hysterectomy I was having problems somebody said to try Metamucil and I've been taking it ever since. Has it lowered my cholesterol I don't believe so. Although my doctor never shares numbers with me not sure
Request that your doctor share a paper copy of your lab work with you so you can see and research your own numbers. Knowledge is a necessary part of being your own health advocate. A great book to help you understand your own lab results is, "Your Blood Never Lies" by James B. LaValle.
Gerald Ford his White House health report from 1976 said he had a total cholesterol of 275 mg/dL which was considered good since the normal range at that time was 150-300, he lived until 93. In 1980 Jimmy Carter had a total cholesterol level of 229 mg/dL which was considered good since the cut off was lowered to 230, he has never had any heart problems. In 2018 the white house health report had Trump with a BMI of 30 and a life time LDL of 200 mg/dL had it lowered to 143 and was able to get the total cholesterol down to 223 mg/dL with some medicines and he had a perfect stress test and echocardiogram and very good blood pressure levels and no diabetes and has never had any health problems. Obama eats 4-6 eggs every day and had an LDL of around 138 mg/dL in a 2010 physical but was considered the most fit president. Mike Pence had an LDL cholesterol level of about 150 mg/dL but the doctors said that was ok at that time. Maybe you should not tamper with your cholesterol level?
It took me two months to build up to one tablespoon of psyllium husk - just had a strong GI reaction to it. The other thing that has been interesting has been weight loss, similiar the descriptions of GLP1 angonist. I still eat sweets, but just don't feel like eating much of it. I will eat one or two cookies now, not eight. I'm not trying to "control" myself, it just happens.
After many colonoscopies, Dr’s have recommended psyllium to treat or reduce diverticula. I’m now seriously taking psyllium and my total cholesterol is down. Hopefully LDL’s as well which I won’t know until my next blood test. I’m also experiencing benefits you mentioned on your channel. Thanks for this topic.
Great job,doctors, I watch all your videos. I appreciate you. I take 10mg of atorvastatin, my cholesterol is good but my triglycerides high. What do you recommend to lower my triglycerides? Thank you.
I am going to try it! My doctor has been suggesting a low does of a statin....not a fan of adding another rx to my diet. Lots of people in my familu don't do well with a lot of rx drugs.
I take 15 g of psyllium husk everyday and I have never noticed any difference in my cholesterol, by the way, my cholesterol is high, and I'm not concerned, I do take it to support My gut bacteria
Thanks Kingston Duo; cholesterol circulates bile to liver like on the MTA...maybe a song before your time. I started taking psyllium some 25 years ago and found that it diminished IBS symptoms. Most people would drool at me blood lipids: low LDL, high HDL, at age 78, however methinks this is mostly genetics. Odd thing is I always add about 1.5 tbs of husk to the water of two poached eggs. On your advice I may wait a hour or so after breakfast so as not to lose the nutrient value of the eggs.
I tried the restorafibre gummies which is inulin, but they gave me so much gas....does metamucil do the same? I also take two tbsp ground flax in my yogurt in the mornings.
High cholesterol runs in the women in my family not really sure why, but we’re all fit exercise and walk daily. Eat Right it’s just in our genes. I was just wondering if you could dress things like cholesteroff and garlique and all these other ones do they work? They seem to on Amazon reviews. I’m terrified of statins because my parents were put on one time or another and both had very bad reactions . Thank you for this.
Can you provide a link to trials that show decreasing LDL also decreases CVD? I have seen conflicting info by Dr Ken Berry MD here on TH-cam saying that is false. So I want a link with actual info. I did not see any links to such info in your description.
Dr Berry is an interesting choice as he is someone that has trouble with his license in the past and works hard to choose very controversial topics to increase his views and book sales. There is no single piece of evidence but rather a summary of 50 years of evidence. It’s much more nuanced than cholesterol is not a problem. People nowadays don’t listen to the facts but rather listen to the person who is the loudest. Here is a link to the Canadian guidelines which is based on a decades long summary of data. At the end of the day you can choose to do whatever you like with your cholesterol. Dr Berry will hold no responsibility for your health. Hope this helps. www.onlinecjc.ca/article/S0828-282X(21)00165-3/fulltext
Thx for your great videos. I’m 64 years old and just hovering in the safe zone of cholesterol. I try to control it with weight diet and exercise. We have Metamucil in the house with artificial sweeteners so good for reduced calories but I’m not a fan of artificial sweetener. Any opinion on saving calories with artificial sweetener or sugar? I personally always opt for real sugar
Can you clarify something please? You said not to take it an hour before or after your meals but the Metamucil I have says to take it just before a meal to help with satiety. Does this mean I am not absorbing the fats in my food or that I am not getting the benefits of lowering cholesterol? Thanks guys!
They do sell psyllium husks capsules. That is easier to take then the powder. In the U.S. I use the Vitamin Shoppe brand. If I do use powder I put it in a smoothie. Dr. Michael Greger also suggests 1/2 tsp of organic Amla powder. Indian Gooseberry) to lower cholesterol. I get it on Amazon. I put it in Plain no fat Greek yogurt along with berries etc. You can also put it in no sugar added applesauce.
Could you do a video on varicocele. I discovered I have one this morning with a doctor's visit. Got an ultrasound done this afternoon. I have been reading that surgery or embolization may be required. I'm 49 and haven't ruled out having a child. Also, I don't like the mild discomfort the varicocele causes and would consider surgery or embolization just to eliminate that. Kind regards, Shawn
Did I miss where you guys discussed the role of saturated fat? All I heard was dietary cholesterol was not much of a problem. Also, at 7:24 the man on the left said that psyllium comes from a number of different plants, but it is my understanding that it is from a specific plant, Plantago ovata. Perhaps he meant that soluble fiber is found in other edible plants and their seeds.
I'm going to disagree that our diet only affects about 20% of our lipid levels as I think it's significantly higher than that. I once had a total cholesterol of about 265, I don't recall my LDL but I think it was in the 140's. Today my total cholesterol is in the 140's and my LDL under 70. Certainly psyllium husk is worth a try, but I'd say a better addition to any healthy diet is oatmeal. Just 1/2 cup/day works like magic to lower LDL. If you don't have time to eat, which few of us do, blend it in a smoothie with some fruit like blueberries for even more fiber and good for you healthy food.
Psyllium husks apparently have high lead levels but there have been independent studies that show the Yerba Prima brand has one of the lowest levels of lead, I’m not sure where Metamucil fits in? I mix about a tablespoon of husks in a large glass of water with a little honey. I follow Dr. Brad Stanfield on TH-cam and he did an informative video on psyllium husks about nine months ago…worth watching.
My LDLC has been climbing toward a level of concern. I cut a lot of saturated fat out of my diet and lost weight and take psyllium husk. My LDLC has come down significantly to where my doc won't prescribe meds for it but I'm not convinced it's low enough.
I’m a nurse in an endoscopy unit and I approve this message! 😄
After 5 years on a statin and feeling crappy, I stopped it, started Metamucil (sugar free) morning and evening, cut out refined carbs, increased exercise. Lost 20 lbs(which I never could on the statin) and cholesterol is normal. Within a week, felt less foggy, stronger, and that was before the exercise increased. Got to keep it up tho😊
Cholesterol is not the bad guy.
Excess body fat is the root cause of almost all health issues.
I just had this discussion a few days ago, and we didn't come to a conclusion, so your timing is great. Thank you for the awesome information.
Glad it was helpful!
I love how you end each video with "remember you are in charge of your own health." And many thanks for providing helpful, researched information and for having excellent guest doctors. I have recommended your channel to my nurse practitioner and others. cheers
Wow thanks so much. That our goal - to empower our viewers.
Hi guys! I take Metamucil and a statin and my cholesterol is well-controlled. I was on the statin first and started Metamucil for GI reasons several years later-incidental discovery, my levels are better since adding Metamucil to the regimen. I actually take either Metamucil or generic psyllium husk capsules. I can’t stand the gritty texture of reconstituted bulk psyllium husks in water or juice. So much easier to take 5 capsules 2-3 times a day. Efficacy is the same. Thanks for all your great teaching! Retired critical care nurse (45 years), so I appreciate your wonderful and educational videos so much!
Thanks for the info. I tied the Metamucil and couldn't stand the feeling of drinking sludge. I will try the capsules.
Another great subect. I had high holesterol for 4 years, and start taking Metamucil January this year, within 3 months my cholesterol went to normal levels and I lost weight. In my case I cut off sugar ( I buy the orange (no sugar added) from Costco ( great deal ), stick to low carbs food. In time you can re adjust the dose as your body changes.
Very nice
I don't have a cholesterol problem, but I do use Metamucil to move food along and avoid getting constipated. I believe this helps prevent colon problems
I have been taking Mira Lax for years and still having bouts of constipation and then diarrhea for about 4 days. After having a colonoscopy, the doctor stated that I needed to start taking Metamucil. I have been taking it for about a month and have found that I have been having regular bowel movements and they have the correct density. I did not know that it reduces cholesterol so I found your information to be very enlightening. Thank you for discussing this topic.
Wonderful video guys. both my wife and I have been taking Meta Mucil for about 2 years. We are in our early 70's, eat well, mostly plant based foods and see our doctor every 3 months for blood test results. We recently had our cholesterol checked and the report showed elevated levels across the board. But the Doctor says its not high enough to worry. But we do, have and are concerned. While trying to find more evidence to what we may be doing wrong, I came to todays video. the one thing we see we may be doing wrong is the timing of when we take the Meta Mucil. We had separated our fat soluble supplements with our water soluble ones to take at different times, for better absorption but we were taking the Meta Mucil pre meal with supplements that need food. This might be the very thing we have been doing wrong. Thanks to you channel we are now going to take our Meta Mucil completely apart from every other thing. We had our doctor re test the cholesterol in 3 months to see how we are doing. I will continue to look for other reasons, but this just might be the cause of our high numbers. Thank you, no one else ever said to take it alone.
I’m just gonna post my numbers. This happened in 9 months!
Feb 2024 Tot Chol 271, Cal LDL 209
Nov 2024 Tot Chol 167, Cal LDL 106
I am severely intolerant to statins. I achieved these results by strict intermittent fasting (eating between 11-7). I take Zetia daily. I also take 3 Red Yeast Rice and 3 Metamucil Capsules daily. This is my truth. I hope this helps someone out there.
Cholesterol is not the enemy
Read yeast rice, is actually what all the statin's are based on. So you are not 100% intolerant towards statins! 😉
And as statins are way cheaper than quality brands selling red yest rice....I would recommend saving money, by trying another statin, and remember to start out with lowest dose at first! 😉
Rosuvastatin and Atorvastatin, is the most popular ones.
@@danieljrgensen133 I was put on Pravastatin first and then Rosuvastatin second. I had severe muscle cramping to both of them. Rosuvastatin was more severe than the Pravastatin!
Thanks for sharing your #’s. That encouraging to me and others, I’m sure!
@@-What-are-your-thoughtsDietary cholesterol or serum cholesterol? These are not the same. Dietary cholesterol does not matter so much, they briefly mention how Dietary cholesterol isn't the issue as much as de novo synthesis. LdL cholesterol the real subject in this video(apob is a much better test) is best controlled by limiting excess calories by processed carbs AND saturated fat( with a small few exceptions for some saturated fats found in plant sources.)
I take medicine every night.Regardless of whatever's going on in my life.I've been taking it for 20 years.Never missed a day.Love it my LDL.Is forty four
I’m with you Dr. Zalzal! Starting psyllium husk today! I presently take ezetimibe daily and will 🤞that psyllium husk enhances my results. Thanks to both of you for all the education! I’m a registered nurse of many years and still here to learn all I can👏
Very welcome. Doing our best
Great video! The both of you are my favorites on TH-cam ❤
Wow, thank you!
Metamucil has been a great help with my lymphocytic colitis, a mild colitis. The gastroenterologist's only suggestion to me was Pepto Busmol, which I used a lot of, and it didn't help at all. My colitis symptoms were, after eating foods with roughage (apples especially), having a stomach/gut ache at 3:30-4 a.m., and then very loose stools. Metamucil alleviates all these symptoms, one scoop before breakfast or during the day, it's been wonderful for me.
I love watching you guys. Love your humor and knowledge you share! Thanks for sharing your knowledge by presenting ALL the facts.
I’ve been taking one tablespoon per day for a couple of years and it’s really helped calm down some bowel problems. I will say I’m also a bit sensitive to the acid contained in the orange flavoring, but just drink around a glass and a half of water helps, as does not drinking it around bedtime.
Very nice
I am in the group that is very happy we have modern medical science and pharmaceuticals and will do anything to lower cholesterol. I am in great health, very fit, great diet and I still need and take a statin. I started taking Metamucil a few years ago following a colonoscopy. It works great! It is both good for my digestion and the blood lipids are the best they have ever been.
I like modern medicine and pharmaceuticals too. people always gripe about big Pharma until they get really sick and have a heart attack or need cancer medication.
That’s awesome David
I just found you guys! 💃. My cholesterol has always been 220 or higher. At 237 doc was talking about putting me on meds I started taking Fatty15 (C15) went down to 189! I stopped for about 1 month, it went back to 237. Im taking Fatty15 again. I'm definitely going to look into metamucil! It's a lot cheaper. Thanks for an informative video ❤
Welcome!! Thanks for sharing
I take Metamucil. My cholesterol was minimally elevated. I was taking to help prevent cancer causing polips. My cholesterol has been normal. .
Psyllium husk works. My cholesterol level went up when I stopped taking it. I'm bak on it now on a daily basis and cholesterol back to normal.
Factual, interesting, and added humor. Well done, doctors. I'm committed to trying the Meta Mucil gummies. 🇨🇦
How does Metamucil compare with oatmeal for lowering cholesterol?
I started taking Metamucil 13 years ago after my triple bypass; the gastroenterologist recommended it because I was not "regular" anymore. It works to relieve constipation for me. I've tried psyllium husk fiber but it does not dissolve as well and it certainly does not taste good. I get the sugar free version of Metamucil. My overall cholesterol has been great with low LDL and triglycerides if I eat lentils regularly. I swear lentils lower triglycerides! I do have a boring diet, though! I take two double doses of Metamucil daily.
Excellent. Thanks for your info.
psyllium husk, oatmeal, chia seed, flax YEA.
Nice!
Long time psyillium taker. Morphed to daily capsules(10) with other supplements and lots of water. Most of the world’s psyillium supply comes from India. It is classed as a plant and not a food. Therefore it is sprayed. I moved on from Metamucil to an organic capsule. I get a monthly supply from Amazon. More expensive than Metamucil but who knows what they spray on the psyllium plant in India .
Please note the name of the organic capsule.
Thankyou for your information
From Amazon. Out of Utah. On label, company is called complete natural products. They r in centerville Utah. I am in ontario.
@philipgriffiths4239 Thankyou.
My cholesterol was 230 which shocked my dr because I am a small female very active with exercise and good blood pressure. I stopped eating Oreos, my treat after a long run, and added broccoli & oatmeal daily. My last test taken in October 24 has it at 158. Whew
I have very high LDL but low triglycerides and eat super healthy and I'm a triathlete that trains 5-6 days a week. Will not take statins though, so happy to try alternatives
Best of luck
Try fermented garlic in honey
With red yeast rice, activity and losing weight, and diet change, I was able to lower my ldl to 7 pts away from normal. No side effects with the red yeast rice. Took 2x/day, OTC at pharmacy, in with the vitamins
@@LindaC616 Good day Linda, Just recently found out about red yeast rice, but saw that it has side effects. Can you kindly tell me your story of it. do you take a supplement, of the food its self? how did you learn of it. sorry maybe you age? lol . My wife and I are early 70s, in real good shape but still have higher than we like cholesterol. Not high enough for meds according to our doctor. Appreciate any time you may have to share, Thank you, stay safe and healthy
@southerncomfort971
Well, it's good that it doesn't worry the docs!
I heard about it through a dietitian. Have struggled with my weight my whole life, and when my numbers were done in my 40s, my doctor recommended I work with her because the weight was on an upswing, and the cholesterol numbers were at 253, with low triglycerides. Until 3 years ago, I've always had low triglycerides, regardless of my weight (I've been eating a low fat diet since I was 28 or so). So I started taking the red yeast rice and in conjunction with losing 84 lbs through the diet and exercise, along with red yeast rice, which I took in two capsules, I got my cholesterol down to 213. Absolutely zero side effects. In a rare fluke, I also got it down a little bit lower because, when my weight loss hit a wall an endocrinologist tried me on metformin.That was incredible! My cholesterol was almost normalized and my HDL went through the roof! (Somewhere around 70/80, IIRC). However, it did not help with weight loss, so I quit taking metformin.
I would say to give it a try. I had 0 side effects, and if you buy one small bottle for the 2 of you to take 2 capsules a day, try it for a month and see. You can always quit taking it. CVS frequently has it on sale as a BOGO, and as long as you're not taking any other medicines that affect the liver you should be fine. If it works, let me know!
Great video, thanks Docs. You are definitely helping to keep people out of the hospital!
That’s the goal! Get in front of these chronic diseases
i am taking psyllium husk daily. it helps to lower my cholesterol about 10%. i tried the lipitor and zetia before, both of them cause my eczema flare-up. psyllium husk isn't as effect as lipitor or zetia but it lower my cholesterol to an acceptable level and my skin accepts it well.
Your vids are always informative, entertaining and oft times rather timely. At my last physical almost 3 years ago my blood work showed my ldl to be a touch high. Not enough to warrant a mention by my doc but I wanted to try and lower it. I have eaten Bran Buds semi regularly with my breaky for a long time but with this slightly higher ldl I started eating more. My next physical is Monday and I am curious to see where the ldl is now. Keep up the good work here fellas.
Thanks Steve
Gummies never worked for me.
Metamucil Orange with sugar...
YES with sugar worked best.
Lower weight, excellent bowel
Routine. After many years of
Problems Thank You Jesus...
Thanks for sharing!!
I reduced my LDL-C 23% over a year by adding Metamucil and also reducing alcohol, so I’m a convert. I originally started taking it to deal with bulking up my stools but I believe it has also helped with my lipid numbers. I was not on statins so this 23% is entirely lifestyle and diet.
I take atorvastatin. It works my doctor is happy with my levels... I'll just keep doing that!
Perfect
I just discovered your channel, and love love you guys! Your humour is top notch, with still delivering such great content! 😊
I have no ileum due to bowel resections, Crohn’s Disease. It took awhile to figure out why my LDL was so super low. This video had a great explanation as to what happens when the bile acids are not reabsorbed. The bad side effect is that I need to take a bile acid binder to prevent irritation of the intestines and constant bathroom trips.
Interesting points! It’s amazing how much misinformation is out there. 'Health and Beauty Mastery' by Julian Bannett totally changed my perspective on what we’re told about health and wellness. Highly recommend for anyone who wants the full story!
totally agree
I enjoy your show and think its great how excited you get about information reported from research. Thank you for your shows.
I just started drinking the orange sugar-free Metamucil two days ago. It is pretty tasty. I haven’t noticed any bloating or upset stomach yet… I only started with one tablespoon and you are supposed to work your way up.
Is there any correlation between Vitamin D and higher/increased cholesterol levels? Thanks for any info.
Love you guys! I’m going to try the psyllium - already in Rosuvastatin (5 mg,) but it wouldn’t hurt to get the LDL a little lower. Dr Zalzal, start really slowly!
Good luck!
You mentioned the timing of taking Metamucil but I didn't catch when it's best. When is it best to take it?
An hour before or an hour after meals, including the same for fat-soluble supplements.
Just an hour or two before or after your meds and any fat soluble vitamins
Thanks
In 1991, when I was 43, my doctor told me that he used psyllium every day, and suggested that I do the same. I am now 76 years old, have been using psyllium ever since, and my LDL levels have always tested as being very low. Regarding the taste, my wife and I now look at it as dessert: mixing plain psyllium with (reduced fat) milk makes a concoction that tastes somewhat like a vanilla milkshake, and mixing the orange-flavored psyllium with milk makes it at least somewhat tolerable.
I take Metamucil daily and it has definitely helped me with regular bowel movements. Which in turn helps my overall health factors. I bring it with me when we travel so I can continue to take it daily.
Metamucil also comes in capsule form...so no night bathroom problems
Using psyllium, overnight sprouted whole oats with chia seed added has helped lower my cholesterol levels. They were creeping into high territory but are now in normal range.
We care about Dr. Zalzal! 👍 I’m going to try it as well!
Thanks!
Went on a whole food plant based diet and lowered my cholesterol
Yes that’s a great idea
How many times have I written in saying how wonderful you Doc’s are ♥️ and how valuable the info you impart to us is. I’m a 64 year ol’ gal who has “slower” sometimes sluggish digestive tract (GERD, hiatal hernia etc). I use Metamucil premium daily and can’t say enough about how it’s helped me with elimination (no real cholesterol issues for me). I was told years ago, via a lecturing elderly GI Doctor at the U of A hospital, that if everyone over the age of 30 took Metamucil (with proper hydration as well) that society would have fewer colon cancer and GI tract issues. LOVE your channel. Thank you for everything you do. PS .. I’m still an old AC/DC fan 😉
I’d like to know if others have knee and joint pain from taking a statin. My knee pain got so bad I could hardly walk. I stoped taking it and I’ve got mobility back again. Making loosing the weight easier.
I've heard people reported that, it's why I resisted it. Look into red yeast rice as an alternative
Been on Atorvastain for years now no negatives for me. Want to try the Metamucul now though.
I was prescribed Roustuvastatin and developed joint and muscle pain. So was switched to Mar-Ezetimibe and Metamucil. Lowered cholesterol enough to be able to cut the medication in half. Metamucil also aided in easy bowl movements 😂👍
😮 hey Docs can you speak on any links between lack of sleep and higher cholesterol levels? Since cholesterol is made at night this would make sense. 😮
Great. I take rosuvastatin and metamucil every day. (I wasn't aware until recently that statins should be taken at night time, not in the morning.) 👍
Sooo confused about cholesterol. Did Keto, my numbers went thru the roof! Some doc’s say no prob some say a huge problem. Going back to a low fat diet that I lived by for 20 years.
Yes it’s complicated for sure. The fat in keto is often an issue. Good luck
I had the exact same problem.
Did the low carb with high animal fats, while my a1/c lowered, my blood lipids doubled.
I am now eating a more Mediterranean style diet and eating more fiber foods, I hope it helps, my next labs are in April 2025.
Same for me but I’m sticking with low carb eating….I did add nattokinase recently….won’t know till June if that is working!!!
@@prestomattwine…High insulin levels create inflammation which damage the arteries walls, that’s what you want to prevent. Cholesterol is there to repair the damage. Please look into this.
I enjoy watching, listening and learning from you both and the channel 💖
Awesome! Thank you!
Read yeast rice is what works best for me, 25% reduction of LDL when taken before each meal.
I have been using psyllium for over 20 years, 2 tablespoons daily half ground psyllium and half ground flax seed, and critical, a large glass of water. Great for the digestion system. Important to drink a large drink of water with/after taking it. I don't take it around meds time, give it space. I buy psyllium in bulk but not in the canned packaged, can be bought much cheaper online in a sealed bag and never the awful orange concoctions. Knock it back fairly quickly since it will become gluey, not a desirable experience. If you are new to it, perhaps start with a lower dose and increase over a week or two. Just my personal experience with success.
Thanks for the info. So do you mean you are taking 1 tablespoon of psyllium and 1 tablespoon of ground flax seed mixed together?
@@MG63 Yes. 1 Tablespoon of each mixed.
@@Waeweeb Ok, thanks for your reply. Regards.
My doctor advised Metamucil to avoid polyps. None since I started taking it.
Yes it has direct benefits to reduce the risk of colon cancer like all fiber
About 6 months ago I started taking Metamucil especially for lowering cholesterol which has been sneaking up 😢 (76 yo female). My Doc gave me 4 months before next bloodwork to reassess cholesterol. My hopes were dashed when it had increased instead of lowering. I’m now on a minimal dose of statins plus regular Metamucil. Just had repeat bloodwork and will be going back to Doc for results soon. Fingers crossed.
PS, BMs are spectacular 😂
During chemo, emergency room doctors recommended PEG, and my husband, who had high cholesterol and BP from a young age, also used PEG daily for years. Does it have the same effect on cholesterol as metamucil?
Not typically
@TalkingWithDocs thank you.
I’d be interested seeing a video on Taurine.. I seen in comments someone indicated it helped them with essential tremors and a lot of positive things on other issues. Thx
Great suggestion! We will add it to the very long list 😀
I am on blood thinners so will not try, I had not heard of this alternative and GP did not advise. I was prescribed S’s about a year ago and wow did the numbers correct to very good levels, so S works for me. I take dietary supplements and eat and exercise well. Another excellent information video.
Sounds sensible
Metamucil has been a game-changer for my son and me! It's helped us keep our cholesterol levels in check.
Dr. Zalzal, the humor you bring to your talks makes the content engaging and even more enjoyable. They add a refreshing touch that resonates with many of us. Thank you for making learning enjoyable!
Thank you thank you for your information I have high cholesterol and I've been taking Metamucil for many years now. After my hysterectomy I was having problems somebody said to try Metamucil and I've been taking it ever since. Has it lowered my cholesterol I don't believe so. Although my doctor never shares numbers with me not sure
Request that your doctor share a paper copy of your lab work with you so you can see and research your own numbers. Knowledge is a necessary part of being your own health advocate. A great book to help you understand your own lab results is, "Your Blood Never Lies" by James B. LaValle.
Yes they should share your labs. They are yours after all.
You guys are awesome. Great advice and encouragement to improve my levels the happy healthy way. 👍🏽👍🏽
Minute 12:25 is important. I had to rewind to make sure I got the message there.
Yes it can affect absorption of some meds
Gerald Ford his White House health report from 1976 said he had a total cholesterol of 275 mg/dL which was considered good since the normal range at that time was 150-300, he lived until 93. In 1980 Jimmy Carter had a total cholesterol level of 229 mg/dL which was considered good since the cut off was lowered to 230, he has never had any heart problems. In 2018 the white house health report had Trump with a BMI of 30 and a life time LDL of 200 mg/dL had it lowered to 143 and was able to get the total cholesterol down to 223 mg/dL with some medicines and he had a perfect stress test and echocardiogram and very good blood pressure levels and no diabetes and has never had any health problems. Obama eats 4-6 eggs every day and had an LDL of around 138 mg/dL in a 2010 physical but was considered the most fit president. Mike Pence had an LDL cholesterol level of about 150 mg/dL but the doctors said that was ok at that time. Maybe you should not tamper with your cholesterol level?
Psyllium Husk should ve taken prior to large meals - true story.
Often used as a strategy
@@TalkingWithDocs 👍
Dr. Zalzal you convinced me to go on a statin. See how it goes. Thank you both for the intel🎉
You better do your research on statins, they will lower your cholesterol but they don’t prevent heart attacks.
Should i take it in the morning or at night
Really appreciate the quality of your videos! I would be very interested in one about yoga Keep up the good work!
It took me two months to build up to one tablespoon of psyllium husk - just had a strong GI reaction to it. The other thing that has been interesting has been weight loss, similiar the descriptions of GLP1 angonist. I still eat sweets, but just don't feel like eating much of it. I will eat one or two cookies now, not eight. I'm not trying to "control" myself, it just happens.
After many colonoscopies, Dr’s have recommended psyllium to treat or reduce diverticula. I’m now seriously taking psyllium and my total cholesterol is down. Hopefully LDL’s as well which I won’t know until my next blood test. I’m also experiencing benefits you mentioned on your channel. Thanks for this topic.
Thanks
I’m using it for my IBS D
Seems to be helping
Best of luck!
I use it for mine too, especially when traveling. Makes a huge difference.
@@carolgreen5586
Yes, the only problem is I need to drink at least 8oz of water. And traveling is inconvenient.
Great job,doctors, I watch all your videos. I appreciate you. I take 10mg of atorvastatin, my cholesterol is good but my triglycerides high. What do you recommend to lower my triglycerides? Thank you.
Thank you to the good, kind Docs.
I am going to try it! My doctor has been suggesting a low does of a statin....not a fan of adding another rx to my diet. Lots of people in my familu don't do well with a lot of rx drugs.
I take 15 g of psyllium husk everyday and I have never noticed any difference in my cholesterol, by the way, my cholesterol is high, and I'm not concerned, I do take it to support My gut bacteria
Interesting
That Metamucil will certainly keep you regular! And when you gotta go, you gotta go - there’s no screwing around.
Lol, you are correct!
🤣
For sure
Yep! Preach! 😂
This might be a long shot but does either of these available in pill form? And what are your thoughts on Repatha?
So no pill. Capsules and gummies. As for Repatha seems like some patients are having success with it
I avoid added sugar and most artificial sweeteners. I put a squirt of stevia sweetened drink mix into my Metamucil and water - tastes good!
Taking it for 6 months religiously, my cholesterol dropped from 206 to 194.
Nice
Psycillum husk lowered my by 30 points. 15 caps a day CVS brand
That’s awesome
Does Metamucil work the same for Triglycerides?
Yes the soluble fiber in psyllium can help with triglycerides as well
Always enjoy your well researched videos!!!
Metamucil lowered my cholesterol 30 pts.
I love these guys!
I eat bran bud for breakfast everyday. It has psyllium fiber in it. Is Metamucil better? I am in my 50's and don't have high cholesterol.
Thanks Kingston Duo; cholesterol circulates bile to liver like on the MTA...maybe a song before your time. I started taking psyllium some 25 years ago and found that it diminished IBS symptoms. Most people would drool at me blood lipids: low LDL, high HDL, at age 78, however methinks this is mostly genetics. Odd thing is I always add about 1.5 tbs of husk to the water of two poached eggs. On your advice I may wait a hour or so after breakfast so as not to lose the nutrient value of the eggs.
I tried the restorafibre gummies which is inulin, but they gave me so much gas....does metamucil do the same? I also take two tbsp ground flax in my yogurt in the mornings.
Yes it does at first but gets better
High cholesterol runs in the women in my family not really sure why, but we’re all fit exercise and walk daily. Eat
Right it’s just in our genes. I was just wondering if you could dress things like cholesteroff and garlique and all these other ones do they work? They seem to on Amazon reviews. I’m terrified of statins because my parents were put on one time or another and both had very bad reactions . Thank you for this.
Can you provide a link to trials that show decreasing LDL also decreases CVD? I have seen conflicting info by Dr Ken Berry MD here on TH-cam saying that is false. So I want a link with actual info. I did not see any links to such info in your description.
Dr Berry is an interesting choice as he is someone that has trouble with his license in the past and works hard to choose very controversial topics to increase his views and book sales. There is no single piece of evidence but rather a summary of 50 years of evidence. It’s much more nuanced than cholesterol is not a problem. People nowadays don’t listen to the facts but rather listen to the person who is the loudest. Here is a link to the Canadian guidelines which is based on a decades long summary of data. At the end of the day you can choose to do whatever you like with your cholesterol. Dr Berry will hold no responsibility for your health. Hope this helps.
www.onlinecjc.ca/article/S0828-282X(21)00165-3/fulltext
Results of studies cited in another response. TLDR there's correlation. He's a *licensed*, *practicing* cardiologist, after all.
@TalkingWithDocs you beat me to it! 😅
Psyllium, Berberine (Thorne brand) is also beneficial.
Nice
Berberine lowers blood sugar, not really noticed effects on cholesterol
I mix psyllium with some apple sauce instead of water. Is that acceptable?
Thx for your great videos. I’m 64 years old and just hovering in the safe zone of cholesterol. I try to control it with weight diet and exercise. We have Metamucil in the house with artificial sweeteners so good for reduced calories but I’m not a fan of artificial sweetener. Any opinion on saving calories with artificial sweetener or sugar? I personally always opt for real sugar
The capsule form of Metamucil has no sweeteners.
Can you clarify something please? You said not to take it an hour before or after your meals but the Metamucil I have says to take it just before a meal to help with satiety. Does this mean I am not absorbing the fats in my food or that I am not getting the benefits of lowering cholesterol? Thanks guys!
They do sell psyllium husks capsules. That is easier to take then the powder. In the U.S. I use the Vitamin Shoppe brand. If I do use powder I put it in a smoothie. Dr. Michael Greger also suggests 1/2 tsp of organic Amla powder. Indian Gooseberry) to lower cholesterol. I get it on Amazon. I put it in Plain no fat Greek yogurt along with berries etc. You can also put it in no sugar added applesauce.
Could you do a video on varicocele. I discovered I have one this morning with a doctor's visit. Got an ultrasound done this afternoon. I have been reading that surgery or embolization may be required. I'm 49 and haven't ruled out having a child. Also, I don't like the mild discomfort the varicocele causes and would consider surgery or embolization just to eliminate that. Kind regards, Shawn
We can add it to the list for sure. Best of luck
Did I miss where you guys discussed the role of saturated fat? All I heard was dietary cholesterol was not much of a problem. Also, at 7:24 the man on the left said that psyllium comes from a number of different plants, but it is my understanding that it is from a specific plant, Plantago ovata. Perhaps he meant that soluble fiber is found in other edible plants and their seeds.
I'm going to disagree that our diet only affects about 20% of our lipid levels as I think it's significantly higher than that. I once had a total cholesterol of about 265, I don't recall my LDL but I think it was in the 140's. Today my total cholesterol is in the 140's and my LDL under 70. Certainly psyllium husk is worth a try, but I'd say a better addition to any healthy diet is oatmeal. Just 1/2 cup/day works like magic to lower LDL. If you don't have time to eat, which few of us do, blend it in a smoothie with some fruit like blueberries for even more fiber and good for you healthy food.
I think the real figure is 70%, but some people have naturally elevated cholesterol, irrespective of the food part.
Oatmeal is not good if you have insulin resistance, which most adults over 60 yrs do.
Psyllium husks apparently have high lead levels but there have been independent studies that show the Yerba Prima brand has one of the lowest levels of lead, I’m not sure where Metamucil fits in? I mix about a tablespoon of husks in a large glass of water with a little honey. I follow Dr. Brad Stanfield on TH-cam and he did an informative video on psyllium husks about nine months ago…worth watching.
My LDLC has been climbing toward a level of concern. I cut a lot of saturated fat out of my diet and lost weight and take psyllium husk. My LDLC has come down significantly to where my doc won't prescribe meds for it but I'm not convinced it's low enough.
Sounds like a good start. Consider garlic and green tea
Red yeast rice worked for me. No side effects