Been into Keto since Halloween 2024. Have lost about 35 pounds (should've weighed myself right at the start, but didn't), down from about 230 to 195. I am a 5'-10" 62 y/o male. BP is down and I feel great. I have had high ldl cholesterol for years (hdl has been going up since on Keto and Triglycerides are good) and was actually on statins for a year or two probably tens years ago. Stopped taking the drug because it noticeably increased joint pain in my knees, ankles, and shoulders. I had multiple injuries to those joints over the years, from both sports and work related. Also, the surgeon who recently repaired my shoulder, as well as an ortho that I saw for a sudden short flareup of severe ankle swelling and pain, have both informed me that I have osteoarthritis. However, the joint pain is much less severe without statins.
Went to my General Practitioner in March, I've only been seeing him for a couple of years. Prior to that I went years without one. Since my first visit he has been on me about my ldl and during the last visit he recommended statins. I told him about my prior experience with statins so we agreed that I should get a CT Coronary Artery Test, also known as a Calcium Score. Had the test today and just reviewed the results online. My total calcium score was through the roof. Total Calcium Score = 2327. I realize that this test only identifies your RISK for heart disease, not the presence of it. But, that is a really high score as they say over 400 is "high risk". I've had two discussions with my doctor about ldl cholesterol and the research which maintains it is not really a valid marker for risk of heart disease. He however, is still in the "reduce fat, reduce cholesterol" camp.
The results of the test will be automatically forwarded to my doctor. I know that he is going to want to put me on statins and get on a low-fat diet. That is not going to happen. Just wondering if any of you have further info on ldl cholesterol studies or your personal experiences with high ldl cholesterol as well as high Calcium Scores?High Coronary Calcium (CT) test score
Brian_O
(Brian O)
#1