The People's Forum: I think the benefits greatly outweigh any risks, which only impact a small minority.

I’ve been on statins for years but I was also very overweight. Having recently lost a lot of that weight gain, my numbers are significantly lower and I’m discussing lowering the dose with my doctor.

However, I know people who are skinny and run marathons yet have very high cholesterol, so a lot of it is genetic.

I think natural fats like butter can be a bit of a red herring.

Previous Message

I’m 66.
I had a general blood test recently and I’ve had a message to contact my GP to discuss statins, so I’m assuming my cholesterol is high. My missus controls our diet and we eat very healthy so she’s latched on to me liking a drink (I’m not an alchy but I do drink wine a lot) and having real butter on my toast.
I’ve heard lots of scare stories re statins. Is there any substance in that? If so should I take the healthy option? Or can I take statins and happily get pissed every weekend?
UTFT