Why I chose not to take Statins (for now)

For those of you who are looking at my Cholesterol project and presently are taking Statins… I hope you understand that this was a personal decision based on many things and I may still have to resort to Statins to get my cholesterol under control.

However, I do believe you can do it with lifestyle change… whether my own self discipline issues can be put aside is another question.

Anyway, these are the reasons I chose NOT to take Statins at least for now.

What are statin side effects?


By far the most common side effect is Muscle pain and Muscle Damage.

Statins can cause an increase in enzyme production in your Liver and can lead to severe Liver Damage.

Statins can lead to Kidney dysfunction and damage in those already having problems

Statins can cause digestive problems such as gas, constipation, irritation… I already have these issues so can’t afford any more….

Flushing or rash can also happen… I am going through menopause so again,,, not a side effect I want to encounter.

Finally,,, can cause memory loss… Again… I am already experiencing some loss of concentration and my memory is not what is used to be.

These side effects are more likely if:

You are female

You are 65 or older

You have a small body frame

You are taking more than one cholesterol lowering drug

You have type 1 or 2 Diabetes

You have Kidney or Liver issues already