How To Lower Cholesterol: Cardiologist's Tips | Dr. Steve Lome

Dr. Steve Lome joins Chuck Carroll on The Exam Room Podcast.

Key points discussed include

Prevalence of high cholesterol: Dr. Lome emphasizes that high cholesterol is a significant issue, often unnoticed by those affected. He notes that while genetics can play a role, lifestyle choices are the primary contributors to high cholesterol levels.

Dietary impact: The discussion highlights the importance of a whole food, plant-based, low-fat diet in managing cholesterol levels. Dr. Lome shares anecdotes of patients who have dramatically lowered their LDL cholesterol through dietary changes, often within a month.

Genetic component: Dr. Lome addresses the misconception that high cholesterol is purely genetic, stating that only a small percentage of the population (0.2%) has a genetic condition that prevents them from lowering cholesterol through diet.

Saturated and trans fats: The conversation covers the impact of saturated and trans fats on cholesterol levels, with a particular focus on dairy products as a major source of saturated fat in the American diet.

Statins: Dr. Lome discusses the limitations of statins in treating high cholesterol, arguing that dietary changes are more effective in addressing the root causes of heart disease, which include inflammation and arterial damage.

Join Chuck and Dr. Will Bulsiewicz at Dr. Barnard’s Bon Voyage Bash in Miami on March 7!