Recently, Kevin Bass, who I typically respect on a lot of issues related to diet and nutrition, has suggested and provided quite a bit of literature for taking statins as a regular preventative measure rather than waiting for LDL, etc. to become elevated to the point where they are necessary later in life. A lot of the literature he has provided seems to show that the side effect risk is fairly low, and that the small risk is worth it when you compare the percentage of people who will suffer from a cardiac event or need to be on statins anyway. He also discusses how dietary and behavioral changes, typically, barely move the needle once you are in the risk catagory, and that even people who eat a healthy diet and exercise are at risk. Iām curious if you could add this to a podcast episode to discuss the literature on this and what your stance is on this claim? Thanks as always!
Our position on blood lipid management is outlined in our extensive, 3-part series on cholesterol, as well as the accompanying podcast (ep 165).
As discussed in this content, the lower ā and the earlier in life ā plasma apoB levels are, the better from the standpoint of lifetime cardiovascular risk. Pharmacologic treatment can certainly play a role here, although some people may weigh those potential benefits vs. costs differently than Kevin does.
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