Let’s Talk About Statins: Myths, Benefits, and Why Diet Alone Isn’t Always Enough
When it comes to managing cholesterol and protecting your heart, one word often sparks debate:
Statins.
They’ve become one of the most widely prescribed medications in the world — and also one of the most misunderstood.
If you’ve ever heard phrases like “I don’t want to be on statins” or “surely I can just fix it with diet,” — you’re not alone.
But here’s the truth: statins can save lives. And they’re often unfairly demonised.
At EverWell, I’m all about empowering you with evidence-based knowledge, so let’s dive into what statins actually do, why they might be prescribed, and why lifestyle change — while important — sometimes aren’t enough.
What Are Statins?
Statins are a group of medications that lower cholesterol levels — specifically LDL (low density lipid-proteins) cholesterol, sometimes called “bad cholesterol.” They work by blocking an enzyme in the liver that helps produce cholesterol.
But their benefits go beyond just lowering cholesterol. They also:
Reduce inflammation in the blood vessels
Stabilise plaque in the arteries (reducing rupture risk)
Lower the overall risk of heart attacks, strokes, and death from cardiovascular disease
So while sometimes people become hyper-fixated on “cholesterol numbers,” statins are really about reducing your future risk of serious heart problems.
Why Do Statins Have a Bad Reputation?
Unfortunately, statins have gained a bad name due to:
Misinformation online
Overstated fears about side effects
The idea that medication means “failure” or “giving up”
Many people worry about:
Muscle pain or fatigue
Liver damage
Memory or cognitive effects
It’s true — side effects can occur. But they are rare for most people, and often manageable by adjusting dosage or switching medications.
The bigger danger? Avoiding treatment based on fear or misinformation, and allowing cardiovascular disease risk to go unaddressed.
Can’t I Just Lower My Cholesterol With Diet?
In some cases, yes — lifestyle change can make a real difference.
Improving your diet, movement, stress, sleep, and weight can absolutely help reduce cholesterol and improve overall cardiovascular health.
But in many cases, especially if:
You have genetic high cholesterol (familial hypercholesterolemia)
You’ve had a previous cardiovascular event
You’re already eating well and exercising — but still have high LDL
You have other risk factors (diabetes, high blood pressure, smoking, etc.)
...then lifestyle change alone may not be enough. And that’s not a failure — it’s simply biology.
You’re not doing anything wrong.
Your body may just need a little extra support.
What If I’m Not Sure About Starting Statins?
That’s okay. It’s your body, your health, and your choice.
But here’s what I encourage:
Have an open, honest conversation with your GP or prescribing clinician.
Ask about your QRISK3 score — a tool used to calculate your 10-year risk of heart attack or stroke.
Discuss what matters most to you — quality of life, longevity, side effects, etc.
Don’t rely solely on internet myths or anecdotal stories. Ask for evidence and context.
Lifestyle Medicine + Statins = Powerful Prevention
Statins are not a substitute for a healthy lifestyle.
But a healthy lifestyle + statins, when appropriate, can be a game-changing combination.
At EverWell, I support women in making realistic, sustainable changes to their lifestyle — while also navigating medical decisions with clarity and confidence.
You deserve care that is holistic, evidence-informed, and non-judgmental — whether that includes medication, movement, or mindset shifts.
Final Thought
Statins are not a “failure.”
They are a tool — one of many — to reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease, one of the world’s leading causes of death.
If your healthcare provider recommends them, it’s not because they don’t believe in lifestyle change — it’s because they want to protect you, long-term.
Empowerment starts with knowledge, not fear.
If you’d like support in managing cholesterol through lifestyle — or understanding if medication might fit into your health plan — let’s talk. You don’t have to navigate it alone.
Book a free discovery call to explore your options, ask your questions, and create a plan that’s both realistic and right for you.
With evidence and empathy,
Ellie
Founder, EverWell
