Cholesterol’s Silver Lining: Why Seniors Might Want More

As you age, your cholesterol levels might actually be working in your favor. Research has shown that individuals over the age of 75 with higher cholesterol levels tend to live longer. While cholesterol medications are a booming industry, natural remedies like cod liver oil and fish oil provide essential omega-3 fatty acids for blood thinning. However, it’s crucial to check the freshness of your fish oil supplements by checking for a fishy taste, as that indicates rancidity.

Fish oil and cod liver oil are particularly helpful for men’s prostate health. Though herbal supplements can offer some assistance, fish oil is more fundamental for prostate health.

Combatting High Insulin Levels

Excess insulin can lead to increased fat and inflammation in your body. Obesity only increases insulin production and inflammation. Consuming long-chain omega-3 fatty acids can provide anti-inflammatory effects, which can be found in cod liver oil. To ensure a healthier lifestyle, it’s essential to cut down on calorie intake, as the body exhausts itself processing food, further accelerating the aging process.

Alternatives for Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)

One of the top alternatives to HRT is black cohosh, a potent herb used to treat hot flashes. Aim for 100 to 500 mg of black cohosh daily, depending on your needs. Quality herbs from Western Europe and Australia are your best options, as these areas have strict pharmaceutical regulations for herbal products.

CoQ10 for Stroke Prevention

Taking 100 to 400 mg of CoQ10 per day can help prevent strokes, according to Dr. James Balch. If you’re already taking cholesterol-lowering medication (statins), it’s important to supplement with CoQ10 as well.

Lowering Blood Sugar and Cleansing the Liver

Milk thistle can be useful in lowering blood sugar, cholesterol, and triglycerides while also cleansing the liver.

Treating Allergic Reactions

In case of a serious allergic reaction that doesn’t warrant a hospital visit, mixing baking soda in water and drinking it swiftly can help control the reaction due to its acid-neutralizing properties.

Boosting Stomach Acid

As seniors face the risks of malnutrition due to decreased stomach acid production, it’s crucial to supplement with betaine hydrochloride to help digestion, especially protein digestion.

Relief From Constipation

Several natural remedies can help improve elimination:

  1. Olive oil: Drink 4 ounces of extra virgin olive oil mixed with juice.
  2. Ascorbic acid (Vitamin C): This can provide a quick flush. If too acidic, opt for sodium ascorbate instead.
  3. Magnesium: Take one gram three times a day for an effective treatment.

Most people will only need to use one of these remedies.

Obesity and Sugar Consumption

Despite the media blaming smoking and cholesterol for many health issues, sugar is often overlooked. Most diseases in the United States are linked to sugar consumption, with processed foods as the main culprit.

Prostate Health and Testosterone

Despite the myth that testosterone fuels prostate cancer growth, maintaining higher testosterone levels can actually be a crucial defense against the disease. Testosterone is protective and has anti-aging effects for men. Striving to maintain the average testosterone blood level of a 20-year-old man with the help of hormone therapy or homeopathic compounds can be beneficial.

Zinc Deficiency and Cancer

Zinc deficiencies in the United States are widespread due to soil depletion and the removal of zinc from processed foods. Zinc deficiencies can be linked to esophageal and oral cancers, as well as an increased risk of developing various types of cancer. Correcting zinc deficiency has shown to reverse cancers in some cases.

Cough Relief and Salt Intake

Theobromine in cocoa is 30% more effective at relieving persistent coughs than codeine but ensure you’re using cocoa and not just chocolate.

It’s important to maintain a balanced salt intake. Opt for sea salt instead of refined salt (sodium chloride) to keep your blood pressure in check.

Natural, Free Range, and Organic Foods

When shopping for healthy food options, it’s crucial to understand that labels like “natural,” “free range,” or “organic” often demand higher prices without necessarily offering healthier choices. Always research and verify the food you consume.