Statins are more and more common, especially in men who are in their 50s+.

There is an argument that they are given out all-too-readily these days. Whilst that may be true, we need to be careful not to vilify them. Like most medications, they have their place following an in-depth assessment and discussion of their need between patient and GP.

Many people can reverse their need for statins by working on lifestyle changes.
However, it’s important to have direction from your GP, as some people may need to go on them. For example, some people have genetic dyslipidaemia – where genetic mutations cause the body to produce too much LDL cholesterol or triglycerides, or not remove them effectively.

If you are on statins then it is important to understand how they can deplete critical nutrients that impact mitochondria, muscles, cognition, and cardiovascular function.

Here’s a little detail that reveals why this matters…

CoQ10
Low levels can lead to fatigue, myopathy (muscle weakness, cramps, and stiffness), brain fog, and oxidative stress (causes cell and tissue damage).

Vitamin D
Deficiency is linked to inflammation, immune dysfunction, and low bone density.

Vitamin K2
Low K2 increases the risk of arterial calcification and bone loss.

Vitamin A
Important for stomach, intestines, and oesophagus lining integrity, immune repair, and inflammation regulation.

Omega-3s
Deficiency may increase triglycerides (fat in the blood providing energy around the body), inflammation, and arrhythmia (abnormal heart rhythms) risk.

Vitamin E (Tocopherols and Tocotrienols)
Low levels are associated with lipid (fats, waxes, oils, hormones, and steroids) oxidation and neuroimmune stress

Heme A
Required for mitochondrial energy metabolism and exercise capacity. (Mitochondria are the powerhouse of our cells).

Selenium and Selenoproteins
Essential for antioxidant defence, thyroid function, immune response and cardio protection

Carnitine
Depletion affects fat metabolism, cardiac output, and physical endurance

Copper
Deficiency may contribute to arrhythmias, anaemia, and neuropathy (nerve damage causing pain, tingling, or numbness).

Zinc
Low levels impact testosterone, immunity, and endothelial repair (cells lining the interior of blood vessels, lymphatic vessels, and the heart).

Creatine
Important for ATP buffering, fatigue resistance, and brain health.

Ideally, blood test monitoring should be used before and during the taking of statins. It’s the sure-fire way of checking deficiencies that need lifestyle, dietary or supplementation adjustments.