What You Should Know About Taking Cholesterol Medication If You're Over 50

There are several risk factors for high cholesterol values, such as having medical conditions like type 2 diabetes or obesity. Eating an unhealthy diet, smoking, and not exercising can put you at risk too. You can even have a genetic condition called "familial hypercholesterolemia." Going through menopause can make women more prone to elevated cholesterol as well. And, getting older can cause your cholesterol to rise, regardless of your biological sex, since our bodies become less efficient at clearing it out of our blood (per U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention).

If you're over 50 and your cholesterol levels aren't where your doctor would like them, you may have had a conversation with her about using a statin. Statins are medications that are used to bring elevated low-density (LDL) cholesterol — often called "bad" cholesterol — back into a normal, safer range, according to the Cleveland Clinic. This type of cholesterol can accumulate on your artery walls putting you at risk for heart attack and stroke so it's important to keep it in check. We consulted with Dr. Scott Noorda, Longevity and Precision Medicine Physician and Founder of Resolve Medical, to see what you need to know about cholesterol medication if you're over 50.

Noorda stressed that there isn't really one best treatment when it comes to lowering your cholesterol — especially if you're over 50. "The best choice really depends on the individual's overall health, risk factors for heart disease, cognitive decline, and specific cholesterol levels," he said.

Statins are the most commonly used medications for lipids management. However, a personalized approach is key. "Functional medicine looks at the bigger picture, including factors like inflammation, insulin resistance, and lifestyle, to determine the most effective treatment plan," he explained. "It's always best to work closely with a healthcare provider to figure out what's right for each person."

Noorda additionally discussed the common side effects of statins, which can include muscle pain, digestive issues, and, sometimes, memory problems, noting that people over 50 need to be especially cognizant of these. "As we age, our bodies can become more sensitive to medications, so yes, being older can increase the likelihood of experiencing these side effects," he said. "It's important to monitor these symptoms closely and communicate any concerns with your healthcare provider, who can adjust the dosage or explore alternative treatments if necessary."

Lifestyle changes can be a good alternative to cholesterol medication for many. You'll want to eat a diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and healthy fats and low in sugar and refined carbohydrates, according to Noorda. "Reducing intake of sugary foods, white bread, and processed snacks can have a positive impact on cholesterol levels." Adding probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, kefir, and fermented vegetables or taking a supplement can aid your cholesterol by supporting gut health. Certain supplements, like omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin B3, CoQ10, berberine, resveratrol, turmeric/curcumin, plant sterols and stanols, soluble fiber, and beta-glucan can also help. Look at avoiding seed oils, as well. "Seed oils, such as those from canola, sunflower, soybean, corn, and safflower (also known as vegetable oils), are often high in omega-6 fatty acids," he said. While omega-6s are important, we tend to eat too many of them compared to omega-3s.

If you're overweight, Noorda advises losing weight. "[E]ven a modest weight loss can significantly lower cholesterol levels," he said. Getting regular exercise can help raise the more desirable high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol while reducing your LDL cholesterol. Quitting smoking and eliminating or reducing your alcohol intake can help as well.

Finally, Noorda suggests addressing any of the root causes of your abnormal cholesterol numbers by looking at things like insulin resistance, chronic inflammation, poor thyroid function, nutrient deficiencies, stress, poor gut health, and toxin exposures. "Of course, genetics can often play a role," he added, "but we also know that targeted lifestyle shifts can make a huge difference for those with genetic predispositions."