LETTER TO THE EDITOR – DECEMBER 2000

My cholesterol level is increasing - LDL used to be 235 and after one month it is now 240. What should I do to reduce it to a normal level? Is it true that a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar a day could help reduce this high level?

MAT, USA

Editor: Yes, your LDL cholesterol level is certainly high. A desirable level is about 130 mg/dL (3.36 mmol/L) or less and a level above 160 mg/dL (4.14 mmol/L) is considered high. I doubt very much that a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar taken daily would produce the 45% reduction in LDL level that you need to reach a desirable level. Perhaps the most important step in reducing your LDL cholesterol level is to sharply reduce your intake of animal fats and animal protein and substantially increase your intake of fiber- rich plant foods. There are many natural supplements that will significantly reduce LDL levels. Among the most effective ones are garlic, niacin, red-yeast-rice (Monascus purpureus), flax seed, wheat germ (fresh), oat bran and soy protein. A good multivitamin and extra vitamin-C and vitamin-E are also recommended by natural health practitioners. I would suggest that you find a naturopath or other qualified health professional in your area who can help you set up an appropriate diet and supplement program which may even include statin drugs if deemed necessary.