Book Review

Cholesterol Down: Ten Simple Steps to Lower Your Cholesterol in 4 Weeks - Without Prescription Drugs

By Janet Bond Brill, PhD, RD, LDN Three Rivers Press 2006

Reviewer: Ruth Frechman, MA, RD

Claims:

This book claims you can lower your cholesterol without prescription drugs by following a 10-step plan.

Diet Plan:

The book lists nine foods and an exercise program for lowering cholesterol. The diet plan is presented in a one page daily checklist chart which includes foods to eat, how much and what exercise to do. The book also includes sample menus and a LDL cholesterol progress chart.

Nutritional Pros:

The diet and exercise guidelines are based on the most current scientific research to lower LDL cholesterol. The foods and exercise have been shown to lower cholesterol to some degree. However, it may be difficult for some people to sustain the diet changes, especially adding soy proteins.

In addition, research is mixed regarding the heart benefits of soy. It may be difficult or impractical for readers to get their blood checked every four weeks, as suggested. Some food ingredients on the checklist may cause allergic reactions or intolerance and some steps could interfere with medications. The dose of flax exceeds the amount recommended by the National Institutes of Health.

Bottom Line

Following most of the book's guidelines will lower LDL cholesterol, potentially preventing heart attacks and saving lives. Readers who are reluctant to take cholesterol medications or experience side effects may wish to discuss with their doctor before following this plan.