Can Xuezhikang Replace Statin Drugs?
Blood lipid regulating medicine is a drug used to treat dyslipidemia. Generally, it is best to follow the doctor's instructions for medication. Some patients may feel that the effect of using blood lipid regulating medicine is not satisfactory, and in such cases, they may consider substituting it with other drugs. Statin drugs have similar effects to blood lipid regulating medicine, so some patients may want to switch to them. However, can blood lipid regulating medicine replace statins? Let's take a look.
The main ingredient of blood lipid regulating medicine is red yeast rice from traditional Chinese medicine. To a certain extent, it can replace statins, but it is not equivalent to statins. For patients with atherosclerotic diseases or those with elevated low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and total cholesterol, statins are still the preferred lipid-lowering drugs. If patients cannot take statins due to side effects such as weakness in the lower extremities or significant liver dysfunction, blood lipid regulating medicine can be used as an alternative. Statins are generally the first choice, and blood lipid regulating medicine can only be used as a substitute when statins cannot be used.
When it comes to daily care for high blood lipids, there are several key points to consider:
Firstly, limit high-fat foods. The increase in blood lipids is closely related to the intake of fat. When the intake of fat far exceeds the body's needs, it can lead to elevated blood lipids and problems like obesity. It is recommended that patients with high blood lipids strictly select foods with low cholesterol content in their daily lives, such as vegetables, lean meat, and soy products. In particular, they should eat more foods rich in fiber, which can effectively reduce the absorption of cholesterol in the intestine. Additionally, it is necessary to consume foods containing unsaturated fatty acids, which are abundant in various vegetable oils but scarce in animal fats. Therefore, it is advisable to consume more vegetable oils.
Secondly, limit the intake of sugary foods. Many people tend to consume sugary foods when they are in a bad mood or after a meal. However, patients with high blood lipids should limit their intake of these foods. Sugar can be converted into endogenous triglycerides in the liver, leading to an increase in their concentration in the blood and ultimately causing high blood lipids.
Thirdly, lose weight. Many patients with high blood lipids also have obesity, which is a major cause of the condition. For overweight patients, it is important to focus on weight loss in their daily lives. The rate of weight loss should not be too fast, and it is best to do so under the guidance of a professional. During the weight loss process, it is crucial to follow dietary principles such as low-fat, low-sugar, and adequate protein intake to maintain good health.
Lastly, strengthen exercise. Unlike patients with hypertension, patients with high blood lipids can engage in appropriate exercise in their daily lives. Exercise increases the consumption of fat and blood lipids in the body, benefiting their physical and mental health. The specific exercise plan should be tailored to each patient's physical strength and actual situation, and it is advisable to consult with their primary doctor or exercise under professional guidance.
