Paul Gascoigne in ‘best possible place' after reported hospital admission
Steve Foster, who drove the 58-year-old to hospital after finding him in a semi-conscious state at his home in Poole, Dorset, told the Sun: 'Paul is in hospital, which is the best possible place for him to be right now.'
The paper said Gascoigne was admitted to an intensive care ward after being discovered on Friday, but later moved to an acute medical unit, where his condition is said to be stable.
Mr Foster, who is also Gascoigne's driver and personal assistant, told the newspaper the former midfielder would 'like to thank everyone for the support he's received so far from so many old friends who wish him well and want to see him back to his best.'
One of the most naturally gifted footballers of his generation, Gascoigne played for Newcastle, Tottenham, Lazio, Rangers, Middlesbrough and Everton and was capped 57 times by his country.
However, his issues with alcohol addiction and depression are well-documented and he has had a series of health problems in recent years.
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Yahoo
24 minutes ago
- Yahoo
Testosterone Booster for Muscle Gain: Men Opt for OTC Supplement Form Natural Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) Treatment in 2025
TestoPrime New York City, NY, July 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- A recent survey shows that TestoPrime is widely regarded by men as the and the top choice for muscle-building results in the United States. In 2025, the pursuit of muscle mass and optimal health continues to drive innovation in the supplement world. For decades, men wanting to boost muscle growth, energy, and performance have turned to testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) as a solution for declining male hormone levels. Traditionally, TRT meant doctor-prescribed injections, gels, or patches—methods that, while effective, come with drawbacks like cost, inconvenience, and potential side effects. Enter the new era: pill form testosterone booster supplements for TRT. Over-the-counter, non-prescription supplements offer safe, natural alternatives for men looking to enhance their testosterone and, with it, muscle gains, recovery, and vitality. At the forefront of this revolution is TestoPrime, a brand rapidly becoming synonymous with natural testosterone therapy and transformative article will explore the science behind testosterone and muscle mass, the shift toward oral supplements. Read why TestoPrime is emerging as the number one choice for natural TRT for men in 2025. The Role of Testosterone in Muscle Growth and Men's Health Why Testosterone Matters Testosterone is the primary male hormone, responsible not only for hormonal male health but also for a host of bodily functions vital to muscle mass, strength, mood, and energy. As men age—or due to lifestyle factors—testosterone levels can decline, leading to: Reduced muscle mass and strength Increased body fat Lower energy and motivation Decreased libido and performance Mood changes such as irritability or depression Slower recovery from workouts Testosterone and Muscle Mass: The Science Muscle tissue is highly responsive to testosterone. The hormone's anabolic effects promote: Protein synthesis: Boosting the rate at which muscle fibers repair and grow after exercise. Nitrogen retention: A key factor in muscle recovery and growth. Red blood cell production: Enhancing oxygen delivery to muscles during training. Fat distribution: Helping to maintain a leaner physique. Low testosterone levels make it harder to gain or even maintain muscle, no matter how hard you train. Introducing TestoPrime: The Leader in Pill Form TRT Testosterone treatmentRead why doctors and clinicians recommend TestoPrime for low testosterone levels About TestoPrime Testosterone Supplements TestoPrime is a breakthrough supplement specifically formulated to naturally elevate and optimize testosterone levels in men. Backed by clinical research, TestoPrime is designed for: Men experiencing age-related testosterone decline Athletes and bodybuilders wanting to build lean muscle mass and recovery Anyone looking to reclaim energy, focus, and vitality Since its launch, TestoPrime has garnered a loyal following and impressive results - making it the go-to testosterone supplement in 2025. TestoPrime's Formula: What's Inside and How It Works Powerful, Natural Ingredients TestoPrime's formula is built on 12 evidence-based ingredients, all chosen for their synergistic effects: D-Aspartic Acid (DAA) A natural amino acid that stimulates LH production, signaling the body to boost testosterone levels. Panax Ginseng A legendary adaptogen, ginseng helps combat stress and supports libido, stamina, and energy. Ashwagandha Extract Reduces cortisol, the stress hormone that can suppress testosterone; also supports muscle growth and fat loss. Fenugreek extract Shown in studies to naturally increase testosterone and support strength and libido. Green Tea Extract (with EGCG) Antioxidant-rich, it supports fat burning and overall health. Pomegranate Extract Boosts blood flow and supports cardiovascular health, benefiting workout performance. Vitamin D Essential for testosterone production; most men are deficient. Zinc A mineral crucial for hormone health and immune function. Vitamin B6, B5, Garlic Extract, Black Pepper Extract Support energy metabolism, absorption, and overall hormonal balance. How TestoPrime Works Stimulates natural testosterone production DAA and fenugreek help the body make more of its own testosterone. Reduces stress and cortisol Ashwagandha keeps stress in check, protecting testosterone levels. Enhances energy, focus, and stamina Ginseng, green tea, and B vitamins keep you sharp and motivated. Improves muscle recovery and fat loss By supporting hormonal balance, TestoPrime optimizes your body's ability to build muscle and burn fat. TestoPrime vs. Prescription TRT: A Side-by-Side Comparison Feature TestoPrime (Pill) Prescription TRT (Injections/Gels) Prescription required No Yes Accessibility Worldwide, online Limited to clinics, prescription only Method Daily oral supplement Injections, gels, patches Ingredients Natural plant extracts, vitamins, minerals Synthetic testosterone Risk of side effects Low Moderate to high Hormonal shutdown No Yes (suppresses natural production) Muscle gain/fat loss support Yes Yes Libido & mood Yes Yes Cost Affordable, no doctor fees High, recurring medical costs Suitable for all men Yes (adults, not for those with medical conditions) Only for those diagnosed with low T The Muscle-Building Benefits of TestoPrime 1. Accelerated Muscle Growth By naturally increasing testosterone, TestoPrime amplifies protein synthesis and nitrogen retention—critical processes for building and repairing muscle fibers after intense workouts. Users report faster gains in size and strength, especially when combined with resistance training. 2. Improved Strength and Performance Higher testosterone enhances red blood cell production, resulting in better oxygen delivery and endurance. TestoPrime users often notice more power and stamina in the gym, enabling progressive overload and continual improvement. 3. Faster Recovery TestoPrime's anti-inflammatory and adaptogenic ingredients (like ashwagandha and ginseng) help the body recover from strenuous exercise, reducing muscle soreness and downtime. 4. Fat Loss and Leaner Physique Increased testosterone shifts the body's metabolism toward burning fat for fuel, particularly visceral (belly) fat. Combined with the thermogenic properties of green tea and pomegranate, TestoPrime helps users shed unwanted fat while preserving hard-earned muscle. 5. Enhanced Motivation and Mental Clarity Many men experience 'brain fog' or lack of motivation when testosterone is low. TestoPrime's blend of vitamins, adaptogens, and antioxidants supports mental focus, drive, and mood. Real User Results: Transformations with TestoPrime Case Study 1: Mark, 37 – From Plateau to Progress 'After turning 35, I noticed my workouts weren't getting the same results. I felt sluggish and wasn't adding muscle like before. After 8 weeks on TestoPrime, my energy shot up, my bench press increased by 30 lbs, and I lost 10 pounds of fat. This is the boost I needed!' Case Study 2: David, 42 – Reclaiming Youthful Vitality 'I'd been on prescription TRT for a year but hated the injections and side effects. Switching to TestoPrime was a game changer. I sleep better, have more energy, and my wife noticed the difference too.' Case Study 3: Mike, 29 – Natural Gains for Bodybuilding 'I wanted to stay natural but maximize my muscle growth. TestoPrime fits perfectly with my training. More strength, better recovery, and I feel unstoppable in the gym.' The Science Behind TestoPrime: Evidence for Each Ingredient D-Aspartic Acid (DAA) Clinical studies have shown that DAA can increase luteinizing hormone (LH) and, consequently, testosterone production in healthy men. One notable study found a 42% increase in testosterone after just 12 days of supplementation. Ashwagandha Research demonstrates that ashwagandha supplementation can significantly reduce cortisol levels and boost testosterone, especially in stressed or active men. In one trial, men taking ashwagandha experienced greater muscle gains and fat loss compared to placebo. Fenugreek Fenugreek has been shown to improve both total and free testosterone levels while supporting strength and body composition in resistance-trained men. Panax Ginseng Ginseng is an adaptogen that not only combats stress but also supports libido, energy, and overall hormonal balance. Zinc and Vitamin D Both are essential nutrients for healthy testosterone production. Studies repeatedly show that deficiency in either leads to reduced hormone levels and impaired muscle growth. KW;, Om AS;Chung. 'Dietary Zinc Deficiency Alters 5 Alpha-Reduction and Aromatization of Testosterone and Androgen and Estrogen Receptors in Rat Liver.' The Journal of Nutrition, U.S. National Library of Medicine, TestoPrime in Muscle Building and Cutting Cycles Bulking: Building Mass with Elevated Testosterone During a bulking phase, the goal is to maximize muscle growth with a caloric surplus and heavy resistance training. Higher testosterone levels facilitate: Greater muscle protein synthesis Faster recovery between sessions Increased strength and power output Less fat gain relative to muscle mass TestoPrime's formula supports all these processes, making it ideal for natural bodybuilders and athletes seeking maximum gains without synthetic hormones. Cutting: Preserving Muscle While Burning Fat Cutting cycles focus on shedding fat while maintaining muscle. Testosterone is key here, as low levels can lead to muscle loss during calorie restriction. TestoPrime: Preserves lean mass by supporting testosterone and reducing cortisol Accelerates fat loss via metabolic and thermogenic ingredients Maintains energy and motivation during tough dieting phases How to Use TestoPrime for TRT Maximum Results Dosage and Timing Recommended dose: 4 capsules once daily, ideally in the morning before breakfast. Consistency: Take TestoPrime every day, even on rest days, for best results. Cycle length: TestoPrime can be used continuously, but many users follow cycles of 8–12 weeks on, followed by a short break. Stacking with Other Supplements TestoPrime pairs well with: Protein powders (for muscle repair) Creatine (for strength and power) BCAAs/EAA supplements (for recovery) Fat burners (during cutting, if needed) Diet and Training Bulking: Combine TestoPrime with a calorie surplus and heavy, compound lifts. Cutting: Use alongside a slight calorie deficit, with an emphasis on protein and resistance training to spare muscle. Is TestoPrime Safe? Side Effects and Precautions Safety Profile TestoPrime is formulated with natural, clinically tested ingredients and is generally very well tolerated. Most users report no side effects. Who Should Avoid TestoPrime? Women and minors: Not recommended. Men with medical conditions: Consult a doctor before use, especially those with hormone-sensitive conditions or on medication. Allergies: Check the ingredient list for potential allergens. No Hormonal Suppression Unlike prescription TRT, TestoPrime does not shut down your body's own testosterone production. In fact, it works by supporting your natural hormonal pathways. Frequently Asked Questions 1. Is TestoPrime a steroid? No. TestoPrime is a natural supplement, not a steroid or synthetic hormone. It works by supporting your body's own testosterone production. 2. How quickly will I see results? Most users begin to notice increased energy and motivation within 2–3 weeks. Muscle and strength gains typically become noticeable after 4–6 weeks. 3. Can TestoPrime replace prescription TRT? For men with clinical testosterone deficiency, medical TRT may still be necessary. However, for most men seeking to optimize natural levels, TestoPrime offers a safe, effective alternative. 4. Is it legal and safe for sports? Yes, TestoPrime contains no banned substances and is safe for competitive athletes. 5. Do I need to cycle TestoPrime? While it can be taken continuously, many users prefer to follow 8–12 week cycles with breaks. 6. Can older men use TestoPrime? Absolutely. In fact, older men with age-related testosterone decline stand to benefit the most. TestoPrime Reviews and Community Buzz: Why TestoPrime is #1 in 2025Growing Popularity With thousands of positive reviews worldwide, TestoPrime has become a staple testosterone supplement for men looking to reclaim their strength, energy, and physique. Social Proof Fitness forums: Users report dramatic improvements in muscle mass, recovery, and motivation. YouTube/Instagram: Influencers and trainers increasingly recommend TestoPrime for natural muscle building. Wellness blogs: Health experts highlight its science-backed formula and transparent labeling. Satisfaction Guarantee TestoPrime offers a lifetime money-back guarantee—a testament to its effectiveness and customer trust. Where to Buy TestoPrime: Ensuring Authenticity and Results To guarantee you're getting the genuine product, always buy directly from the official TestoPrime website. Benefits include: Fresh, authentic product direct from the manufacturer Bulk order discounts and free shipping Lifetime money-back guarantee 24/7 customer support and guidance Avoid third-party resellers to steer clear of counterfeits and ensure eligibility for the guarantee. Traditional TRT: The Challenges of Injections and Gels Prescription TRT: The Standard Approach For years, men diagnosed with low testosterone have relied on medical testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). This typically involves: Injections: The most common method, often administered weekly or bi-weekly. Topical gels or patches: Applied to the skin daily. Implants or pellets: Inserted under the skin for slow hormone release. Limitations and Drawbacks While prescription TRT can be life-changing for men with clinical deficiency, it's not without downsides: Invasive and inconvenient: Injections require regular doctor visits; gels and patches can be messy or cause skin irritation. Side effects: Risk of acne, hair loss, sleep apnea, increased red blood cell count, high blood pressure and testicular shrinkage. Cost: Ongoing medical appointments and prescription fees add up. Not accessible to all: Only available with a clinical diagnosis and prescription. The Shift in 2025: Why Men Are Turning to Pill Form Testosterone Replacement Therapy The Demand for Natural TRT Treatments In 2025, more men are looking for ways to safely and effectively boost testosterone without needles, doctors, or prescriptions. The new generation of pill form testosterone boosting supplements answers this demand, offering: Convenience: Easy, daily oral dosing. Natural ingredients: Plant extracts, vitamins, and minerals shown to support healthy testosterone levels naturally. No prescription required: Accessible to all adult men, worldwide. Safer profile: Lower risk of side effects compared to synthetic hormone replacement. Comprehensive benefits: Improved muscle mass, energy, mood, and overall wellness. The Science Behind Natural Testosterone Boosters Pill-based supplements work by supporting the body's own testosterone production, rather than replacing it with synthetic hormones. Ingredients are chosen for their ability to: Stimulate luteinizing hormone (LH), signaling the testes to produce more testosterone Reduce stress hormones like cortisol, which can suppress testosterone Improve blood flow and nutrient delivery to muscles Support overall hormonal balance Treat erectile dysfunction Natural testosterone boosters also play a crucial role in regulating weight gain and supporting the production of steroid hormones, which are essential for muscle growth, energy, and sexual function. Many of these ingredients help modulate the activity of the adrenal glands—important organs that influence both cortisol and testosterone levels. In addition, a healthy intake of dietary fat is vital for optimal hormone synthesis, as extremely low fat diets can negatively impact testosterone and other steroid hormones. By promoting the body's natural ability to maintain healthy fat levels and supporting key processes related to sexual function, muscle repair, and hormonal balance, these supplements offer a comprehensive approach to men's health and performance. Final Thoughts: The Future of Natural Testosterone Therapy The landscape of men's health and muscle building is changing rapidly. In 2025, more men than ever are seeking safe, effective, and convenient testosterone therapy—without the needles, risks, or doctor's visits of traditional TRT. TestoPrime stands at the forefront of this movement, offering a powerful, natural testosterone treatment for men who want to maximize muscle mass, performance, and vitality. Its evidence-based formula, stellar safety profile, and growing community of success stories make it the leading choice for anyone ready to take their training and life to the next level. Ready to experience the benefits of natural testosterone boosters? Discover TestoPrime and join the new era of muscle building and men's health today. Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement. Individual results may vary. Media Contact:Steve Niddich, Head of Product InnovationWolfson Brands UK12 Payne Street, Glasgow, G4 0LF, United Kingdomsupport@ TestoPrime CONTACT: Media Contact: Steve Niddich, Head of Product Innovation Wolfson Brands UK 12 Payne Street, Glasgow, G4 0LF, United Kingdom support@
CNET
3 hours ago
- CNET
7 Simple Ways to Add Movement to Your Day (Without Dreading It)
I'm far from the first person to say it, but exercise is essential for your overall health. Exercise helps to boost your mood, relieve stress, increase energy, improve sleep quality and lower your risk for developing chronic illnesses and diseases, including diabetes, cardiovascular disease and high blood pressure. So, you might be wondering, if exercise is so important to our overall health, why can it be so miserable? Trust me, I get it. I live an active lifestyle, making an effort to work out four to five times per week, and yet I still have that mental debate every single day where I spend several minutes attempting to talk myself out of exercising. Although I never regret working out after the fact, it can be hard to jump the mental hoop. Over the years, I've found some easy tricks to get myself more active each day. No, going to the gym and doing a hard-core weight workout isn't required. There are actually sneaky ways to get more exercise day-to-day that won't leave you exhausted and miserable. Here's my secret sauce. For more health tips, learn about how to prepare for your first therapy appointment and how to determine your blood type if you don't already know it. 1. Set a routine CNET OK, so this isn't really a secret. Creating a regular habit of working out would be ideal -- duh! But it's creating that habit that's the tricky part. Here's where I can help. One of the most efficient ways to build a habit is through the Cue-Routine-Reward system. MIT researchers discovered the power of the neurological loop at the core of every habit. This "habit loop," later coined by Charles Duhigg in his 2012 book The Power of Habit, consists of three parts: a cue, a routine and a reward. This system can be applied to building any habit, from drinking more water to waking up earlier. It can certainly apply to creating a workout habit. For example, say you want to wake up and go to the gym each morning before work. The cue, what triggers the habit, would be the morning and your alarm going off. (Choose a time that works best for you and be consistent. Using multiple cues like time of day and sound can increase your likelihood of performing your routine.) Your routine, the habit or action you want to create and reinforce, would be getting up and changing into your workout clothes. This can help prevent you from going back to sleep and ensure you hit the gym since you're already ready. And once you finish the routine (the exercise), you'll be rewarded. This could appear in the form of endorphins as a bodily reward that can motivate us to do the routine again, or it could even be a tangible reward, like buying yourself new socks after a week of hitting your exercise goals or investing in a new yoga mat after a month of doing yoga each day. Each person will have a different response to these three elements. It's important to experiment with what cues and rewards work best for you to develop a consistent routine of training. 2. Start small A lot of people assume they need to run themselves ragged in the gym to get more fit, but that's really not true. All you need is about 20 or so minutes a day. The US Department of Health and Human Services recommends a minimum of 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity a week -- that breaks down to a little more than 20 minutes each day. They also recommend strength training to work the major muscle groups at least two times a week. Thirty minutes of activity each day is an ideal place to start to fulfill your weekly needs, but if that sounds daunting, you can start with even smaller increments. Simply walking on the treadmill or cycling on a stationary bike for five minutes can get you into the habit of exercising a little each day. What you'll likely find is that those five minutes actually aren't too brutal, and are maybe even enjoyable. So, the next time you jump on the treadmill, bike or other equipment, you'll decide to stay for 10 minutes then 15 minutes then 20 minutes, building yourself up bit by bit until you're getting your heart rate up for 30-plus minutes each day. You can also start with low-impact activity. A brisk walk in the evening is a more than sufficient workout. You can also refer to this guide for the best workouts for beginners. 3. Habit stack Habit stacking, popularized by James Clear in his book Atomic Habits, is a way to create small yet healthy habits. This term might be new to you, but it's really straightforward: you "stack" the new behavior (exercising) onto a habit you already have to help you remember to do it. This will cause the combo to become a habit. For instance, if you listen to a podcast every day, try going for a walk while you listen. Waiting for your morning coffee to brew? Try stretching while you wait. Habit stacking can be used in a multitude of ways to make new fitness habits blend into your daily routine. Exercise while catching up on your favorite podcast. Ivanko_Brnjakovic/Getty Images 4. Get active at work Your workday doesn't have to be totally sedentary. Rather than using your full lunch hour to eat, take some time to go to the gym, speed walk around the office or run errands. You can also break up the drudgery of the day by taking a walk during one-on-one meetings instead of sitting at a desk or conference room -- anything to get up and get moving. Try to get up every so often to stretch your legs: rather than emailing or Zooming coworkers, get up and talk to them in person if you can; use the stairs rather than the elevator; get up and refill your water every so often. 5. Do exercises you actually like This is a big one. If you hate exercising, it might be because you aren't doing workouts you enjoy. Very few people actually enjoy running around in circles for miles. So don't. Branch out and try different kinds of workouts until you find one you genuinely enjoy. Biking, surfing, paddle boarding, yoga, hiking, skiing, rock climbing, kayaking and ice skating are all fun activities that get your heart rate up. This will require you to go out of your comfort zone and to be patient as you try things out, but it'll be worth it when working out no longer feels like a chore. One trick I used when first getting into working out was using the ClassPass free month trial to try new gyms and classes. The free first-month subscription allows you to visit a particular gym or studio only once throughout the month (you can visit as many times as you want throughout the month after the free trial). This plan is meant to encourage new users to try exercises that might be totally foreign to them, like reformer pilates or hot yoga. During my first month, I tried a boxing class and I was immediately hooked (pun only slightly intended). Now, boxing is one of my favorite ways to incorporate cardio without feeling miserable. I initially felt insecure about trying something so out of my comfort zone, but I felt comfortable within a week and now feel grateful that I found a new activity that I love. Exercise doesn't have to feel like a chore. gradyreese/Getty Images 6. Get active while watching TV Let's be honest, running on the treadmill is boring. Riding on a stationary bike is boring. Watching TV is way more fun. That's why you should combine the two. There's no shame in catching up on your favorite show while hitting the gym. Trust me, I've been rewatching Game of Thrones on my phone while riding on the stationary bike each day. Not only does the entertainment keep my mind off the burn in my legs, but it pushes me to stay longer. Before downloading Netflix and HBO Max on my phone, I'd stay at the gym for 20 to 30 minutes. Now, I usually stay on the bike or treadmill for 50 to 60 minutes -- until the episode is over. 7. Make it social Exercise doesn't need to be solitary. Having a workout partner can help keep you motivated and hold you accountable in your routine. If you don't have one buddy to join you, sign up for a workout class. The structure of working out in a group can push you to work harder while also introducing you to new people. Workout classes can hold you accountable -- and introduce you to new people. twinsterphoto/Getty Images I recommend exploring the fitness course schedule at your local YMCA or gym, signing up for a boxing, dance or yoga class or purchasing a ClassPass membership, which can grant you access to thousands of health clubs in your city. For more health tips, explore how you can track your blood pressure with your Apple Watch and learn why expired makeup is dangerous to use.
Yahoo
3 hours ago
- Yahoo
The six natural alternatives to statins to lower your cholesterol
For those of us in middle age and beyond, conversations about cholesterol are hard to avoid – and with good reason. In England, according to the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence, high cholesterol leads to more than 7 per cent of all deaths and affects six in 10 adults, a number that rises for those in middle age: the most recent NHS Health Survey for England found that in the 45-64 age group, 77 per cent of women and 67 per cent of men had raised cholesterol. Surprisingly, these figures drop in the over-64 age group. Why? Because many of this older cohort are on statins. Statins are currently prescribed to around eight million people in the UK, and taking this daily tablet is a proven way to lower cholesterol levels and reduce your risk of heart attack or stroke. 'We are the first generation of people who have the opportunity to reduce our cardiovascular risk – still the number-one killer – because we have effective treatments in the form of statins,' says Robin Choudhury, a professor of cardiovascular medicine at the University of Oxford, a consultant cardiologist at John Radcliffe Hospital and the author of The Beating Heart: The Art and Science of Our Most Vital Organ. The turn against statins However, for some people with a lower cardiovascular risk, it may be possible to avoid statins by adopting lifestyle changes and/or seeking out other natural options. This is welcome news for many, because statins are often viewed with mistrust. Some critics argue that perhaps these pills are being doled out too liberally and that lots of people shouldn't be on them at all. Others think that statins may even be bad for us. In his 2007 book The Great Cholesterol Con, Scottish GP Malcolm Kendrick argues that high cholesterol levels don't cause heart disease, that statins have many more side effects than has been admitted and that their advocates should be asking more questions. This is something Prof Choudhury finds mystifying. 'I really don't know why people are reluctant to take them,' he says. 'There is one serious side effect associated with statins, called rhabdomyolysis, which is a severe muscle inflammation. But it's extremely rare. It affects one to two patients per 10,000 treated.' 'A lot of people just don't want to take a tablet every day,' suggests Dr Oliver Guttmann, a consultant cardiologist at the Wellington Hospital, part of HCA Healthcare UK. 'People also want to try and do it in what they call the 'natural' way.' The other natural options So, are there other effective natural options to statins? The answer is yes – but only up to a point. 'The bottom line,' says Dr Guttmann, 'is that with all the natural alternatives, there's some effectiveness, but they're not magic bullets.' He accepts, however, that other natural options can play 'a supporting role, especially for those people who are generally healthy and just want to try complementary treatments to decrease mild cholesterol elevation'. If you have been offered statins and decide not to take them, it's crucial to discuss the risks with your GP or cardiologist. Prof Choudhury emphasises that if you've already had a heart attack, angina or stroke, or if your percentage risk of a future event is high, taking statins is usually a sensible route that is grounded in evidence. 'For those who have heart disease, very few people have a good reason not to be on statins. For those who've never had an event, it's important to take an holistic view of risk [incorporating blood pressure, diabetes and family history] but for many individuals, alternatives to statins are perfectly reasonable.' Here are six other cholesterol-lowering options to consider: Plant sterols and stanols Plant sterols and stanols, also known as phytosterols, are naturally occurring compounds that have a similar structure to cholesterol. Prof Choudhury explains: 'They help lower LDL cholesterol levels by reducing cholesterol absorption in the gut because they compete for the same absorption sites.' Found in foods such as vegetable oils, nuts, seeds and whole grains, phytosterols have been shown to lower LDL cholesterol by eight to 10 per cent when eaten regularly as part of a healthy diet. They also work well in combination with statins. However, according to the British Dietetic Association, you need to consume reasonably large quantities – around 2g – each day, with meals, for them to be effective. Most people achieve this by having a plant sterol- or stanol-fortified mini yogurt drink every day or by eating two to three portions of foods with at least 0.8g of added plant sterol/stanol, such as 10g of fortified spread (eg margarines) or one 250ml glass of fortified milk. Oats and barley Oats and barley contain beta-glucans, a soluble fibre, which can be consumed in food or as supplements to regulate blood sugar and lower cholesterol. Cholesterol can go into the blood or the gut, Prof Choudhury explains. 'If you can take that cholesterol out of the gut and stop it being reabsorbed, that has a beneficial net effect on blood cholesterol levels. Beta-glucans bind to the soluble cholesterol that's in the gut and it then exits the bowel.' Some studies suggest that if a healthy adult consumes around 3g of beta-glucan daily – a bowl of porridge – they can decrease their LDL levels by five to 10 per cent over three months. Omega-3s Omega-3 fatty acids do not lower LDL cholesterol, but they have been shown to reduce triglycerides – a different type of fat found in the blood that are deemed to be harmful. Taken in supplement form, omega-3 can lower triglycerides by around 20-30 per cent. 'I tell my patients to take omega-3s all the time,' says Dr Guttmann. 'You find them in oily fish, like salmon and mackerel, though most people take them in supplement form. They work really well taken together with statins to lower your risk of heart disease. They've also been shown to support your brain health, cognitive function and mood.' Red yeast rice Commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine, red yeast rice is sometimes described as a natural statin. 'It blocks cholesterol production in the liver in a similar way to statins,' Dr Guttmann explains. 'The problem is, it's very difficult to get the exact amount you need because the dosages and qualities can vary from one supplement to another. People can also sometimes consume red yeast rice in very high doses, which may cause liver problems.' Prof Choudhury is also concerned by the unregulated nature of red yeast rice capsules, which have been linked to safety issues. 'Statins originated from yeast,' he says, 'and there's a component of red yeast rice [a compound called monacolin K] which has a statin-like action that lowers LDL cholesterol. But it's not a regulated product, so you don't know what you're getting when you take it.' Psyllium husk Psyllium husk is a soluble fibre that helps to lower LDL cholesterol levels. When consumed, it forms a gel-like substance in the digestive tract that traps bile acids and prevents their absorption, causing them to be excreted through the stool. The liver responds by pulling in cholesterol from the blood to produce more bile acids, reducing the amount of cholesterol circulating in the blood. 'Psyllium husk is basically a digestive aid,' says Dr Guttmann. 'It's used as a laxative because it helps regulate your bowel movement, and in the process, it can lower cholesterol and decrease reabsorption. If you take it regularly, it probably reduces your LDL level by about five per cent. So it's great if you just want to be living a healthier lifestyle but inadequate as a medical intervention.' Garlic Some research suggests that allicin, a chemical found in garlic, can lower your blood pressure and cholesterol. One clove (3-6g) of garlic a day may help decrease your LDL by up to 10 per cent, though the evidence is not yet conclusive. 'The problem is that if you just eat fresh garlic, you need to consume a very high amount,' says Dr Guttmann. 'And that's difficult for most people to achieve. So most people take garlic supplements in quite a high dose. I advise people to try this for a while and then re-monitor their LDL to see how they react to it. But it's certainly not a replacement for statins.' And one to be sceptical about… Apple cider vinegar 'The one product often mentioned as an alternative to statins that doesn't really have any significant evidence to back it up is apple cider vinegar,' says Dr Guttmann. 'While it might help to decrease your sugar levels, it does not appear to affect your LDL significantly.' Prof Choudhury concurs: 'I'm not aware of any convincing evidence to suggest that this is effective.' Lifestyle changes to lower your cholesterol 'Our cholesterol level is, to a large extent, genetic,' says Prof Choudhury. 'With lifestyle modifications, you can make some impact on it, though usually not more than 10-15 per cent. For people who don't have very high cholesterol, but have other risk factors, it's a sensible thing to do.' There are five main ways to reduce your cholesterol level without taking statins: Eat a healthy, balanced diet that's high in fibre Exercise regularly Maintain a healthy weight Limit the amount of alcohol you drink Stop smoking For Dr Guttmann, increasing our consumption of dietary fibre is perhaps the quickest and easiest lifestyle change to make. 'Eating a high-fibre diet not only improves your gut health, it also decreases your cholesterol absorption. It binds to the cholesterol in your gut and prevents it being absorbed by the body, which lowers your levels of harmful LDL cholesterol.' He adds: 'My patients often ask me, 'If I do all of these things, surely it's the same as taking a statin?' But the truth is, because they're all working in a similar way, the benefits are not cumulative.' He does concede, however, that it very much depends on the individual. 'I've had some patients surprise me,' he nods. 'By changing their diet and lifestyle and by incorporating some of the interventions in the list above, people can achieve dramatic improvements. But, overall, statins are still the gold standard.' Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more.
