Q. After dieting and exercising hard for the last year I managed to get my cholesterol down from over 260 to below 220. Then sore joints led me to take glucosamine and chondroitin. Now my cholesterol is up over 240. I think there is a connection.
My doctor recommended Certo and grape juice to lower my cholesterol and possibly ease my arthritis pain. How much do I need and is there anything else natural I could try to control my cholesterol and triglycerides?
A. Research has not confirmed that glucosamine and chondroitin raise cholesterol, but other readers have reported a similar problem. You may be interested to note that grape juice has been shown to lower cholesterol. Soluble fiber in the form of liquid plant pectin (Certo) may have a similar benefit. Many readers tell us the combination also helps ease arthritis pain.
One recipe involves putting 2 tsp. of Certo in 3 oz. of grape juice and drinking it three times daily. We are sending you our Guides to Home Remedies and Heart Health with other arthritis recipes and natural ways to control cholesterol.
Fish oil can be helpful for lowering triglycerides as well as easing joint pain, while psyllium can also reduce cholesterol levels.
