A study conducted in American clinics, which included mostly elderly people, found that harmful cholesterol levels decreased by an average of 46.8 percent within a year of starting treatment with “Inclisiran” injections. But the study did not determine whether patients could do without daily cholesterol medications.
How was the decrease calculated?
The study, published in the journal Cardiology & Therapy, followed 225 patients whose average age was about 70 years. The researchers calculated the percentage of cholesterol reduction for 202 patients for whom measurements were available before and after the start of treatment, by comparing the level of harmful cholesterol before the first dose with the lowest level recorded by each patient during the year of follow-up.
Inclisiran is given subcutaneously at the start of treatment, then after three months. After these two doses, the patient receives an injection every six months. The drug works to reduce the production of a protein known as PCSK9, which helps the liver remove more harmful cholesterol from the blood.
Can daily pills be stopped?
The average decrease was 55.4 percent in patients who took statin medications in conjunction with injections. The study relied on clinic records, without randomly assigning patients between continuing to take the pills and stopping them. Therefore, the decision to adjust daily treatment remains linked to the target cholesterol level, the risk of cardiovascular disease, and the patient’s tolerance for medications.
Starting the day with foods rich in anti-inflammatory nutrients - such as yogurt and berries - helps support a healthy body and promote a feeling of well-being. These foods provide a group of nutritional compounds that may contribute to reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, as well as supporting digestive health and regulating blood sugar levels.
A report published by the “Verywell Health” website lists 10 foods that can be included in breakfast to help fight infections and enhance overall health:
1. Yogurt...to support intestinal health
Yogurt contains a high percentage of probiotics, which are beneficial microorganisms that help strengthen the intestinal lining and limit the transmission of inflammatory compounds into the bloodstream.
2. Berries... rich in anti-inflammatory compounds
Berries are characterized by their rich content of anthocyanins, which are compounds belonging to the group of polyphenols, and help soothe inflammation and reduce oxidative stress.
3. Oats...to regulate sugar and cholesterol
Oats contain beta-glucan, a type of soluble fiber that helps regulate blood sugar levels and lower cholesterol.
4. Eggs... high-quality protein and protective compounds
Eggs provide high-quality protein, and the yolk contains abundant amounts of lutein, zeaxanthin, and phospholipids, which are compounds that help reduce inflammation.
5. Leafy vegetables...to protect cells from oxidative stress
Leafy vegetables, such as spinach and kale, are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, which help protect cells from damage caused by oxidative stress.
6. Salmon... a rich source of omega-3 acids
Salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, including EPA and DHA, which are powerful anti-inflammatory compounds.
7. Avocado... healthy fats that help soothe inflammation
Avocados contain a high percentage of monounsaturated fats, which help reduce inflammatory indicators in the body.
8. Whole grain bread...fiber to reduce chronic inflammation
Whole grain bread retains all three parts of the grain, making it a source of fiber and minerals that support digestive health.
9. Walnuts... fatty acids that may reduce indicators of inflammation
Walnuts contain a high percentage of alpha-linolenic acid, which is one of the plant-based omega-3 fatty acids.
10. Chia seeds... fiber and omega-3 from a plant source
Chia seeds provide fiber, protein, and alpha-linolenic acid, which helps lower levels of pro-inflammatory molecules.
Holiday tables may be full of delicious foods, but overeating may cause heartburn and, over time, may lead to unhealthy weight gain or obesity, which the American Heart Association classifies as a major risk factor for heart attacks.
Dr. Sonia Tolani explains that overeating can also lead to type 2 diabetes, which increases the risk of heart disease three times in women and two times in men.
With the abundance of food during the holiday season, here are 5 strategies to avoid overeating:
1. Stick to your daily routine: eat meals at fixed times.
2. Reduce foods high in saturated fat: Choose low-fat proteins and vegetables.
3. Slow down eating: The brain needs 20 minutes to receive the satiety signal.
4. Plan ahead: Have a snack before heading out to the festive gathering.
5. Focus on the people around you: Make socializing the focus of the event rather than the food.
