Ask Your Doctor

Cholesterol and Cardiovascular Disease

These ten questions will help you determine if your doctor is up to snuff when it comes to cholesterol and cardiovascular disease.

1. What functions does cholesterol perform in the body?
2. Is it possible to have a cholesterol level that is too low?
3. Based on my blood pressure and lipid panel, what is my 10 year risk of cardiovascular disease?
4. What is your assessment of other risk factors for cardiovascular disease aside from my lab results and blood pressure?
5. Looking at cardiovascular disease risk from a holistic perspective, what course of action do you recommend?
6. What specific changes to my diet will best help me to lower my cholesterol?
7. What it your view of the scientific research in support of using dietary supplements to lower cholesterol?
8. If I were to begin taking a cholesterol lowering medication, would you be willing to work with me to get off of it in the future?
9. What percentage of your patients take cholesterol lowering medications, and how many experience side effects?
10. Are you currently taking a cholesterol lowering medication?

Dr. Matthew Marturano offers naturopathic medicine for holistic health and wellness. He serves on the Board of Directors for the Michigan Association of Naturopathic Physicians and is the Director of Strategic Development for Orchid Holistic Search.