Ask the Pharmacist

High cholesterol in menopause: which supplement?

Dear Dr., I would need your advice. I have been suffering from hypercholesterolemia for a long time in the past I also took the drug INEGY, then since I was not inclined to treat myself with drugs, I switched to supplements, lately I have been taking armolipid plus one tablet a day. Unfortunately recently doing an abdominal ultrasound they reported that the liver is fatty and increased in volume, also triglycerides have increased. Today I picked up the tests: cholest. tot 256 cholest hdl 53 triglycerides 249 I am 58 years old I am in menopause I am 1.68 tall and I weigh 76 kg so I am overweight, for a long time I should go on a diet but I can't as I have so many problems with my elderly parents. So I eat out of nervous hunger, especially sweets, I read on your site about your supplements: cardiol and meaquor what can you recommend ? Thank you.



Dear Alessandra, 


thank you for contacting us, from your description, what we can recommend is to combine the following products, Cardiol Forte and Meaquor 1000. Cardiol Forte is a dietary supplement containing omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA from fish oil, fermented red rice extract, Olive extract titrated to Hydroxytyrosol and Coenzyme Q10. 


Vitamin E, piperine, and folic acid (important for proper metabolism of homocysteine, a metabolite that in excess increases cardiovascular risk) complete the formulation. In addition, taking 250 mg of EPA and DHA daily contributes to normal heart function. Cardiol Forte also contains Artichoke extract. This powdered extract obtained from the leaves of artichoke Cynara cardunculus L. is titrated to 10 percent chlorogenic acid and derivatives (biophenols) and 2 percent luteolin 7-glucoside and derivatives (flavonoids). 


The biophenols in Artichoke extract have cholagogic, choleretic and hepatoprotective activities; In addition, the flavonoids present inhibit cholesterol biosynthesis and protect LDL from oxidative damage. The recommended dosage for Cardiol Forte is 1 capsule daily, taken in the evening just before dinner Meaquor 1000 is a dietary supplement with a high concentration of the omega-3s DHA and EPA. Meaquor 1000 is particularly good for keeping blood triglycerides and blood pressure under control. 


With 2 grams per day of EPA and DHA, the maintenance of normal blood triglyceride levels is promoted; this dosage can be achieved with 2 capsules per day of Meaquor 1000 taken at a main meal. However, it should be remembered that diet low in animal fats and rich in vegetables along with regular exercise are the first strategy to reduce "bad" cholesterol and improve the overall lipid picture. 


We recommend, of course, that you inform your treating physician of all dietary arrangements (diet, food supplements) that you plan to adopt as well as talk about the possibility of using our products: all this in order to decide with him on the most appropriate therapy. 


I remain available for any clarifications or further questions.



Sincerely, 


Rosaria Ramondino, Pharmacist and Pharmaceutical Chemist.