Question: I am 65 years old and have borderline cholesterol levels. I have tried several medications, but I have side effects. Is there anything natural you can suggest?

Dr. Hibberd's Answer:

Cholesterol management is actually very simple. You can struggle with diet, or you can get smart and increase your soluble fiber. Aim for 30 to 40 grams. Often adding psillium two or three times a day will decrease your reading by at least 10 percent.

After that, you may wish to consider prescription cholesterol medications with the aid of your doctor. Statin medications appear to be best, with Lipitor far out-distancing its competitors with trial data showing improved cardiovasular risks within a reasonable risk/benefit ratio.

Though niacin is available without prescription, I find patients often have difficulty with long-term control. When niacin is used, I prefer the prescription formulations for both their safety and their tolerance.