I get bad muscle pain when taking statins. I have tried them all. Is there an alternative to reduce cholesterol? I do have a very low fat diet.

Despite the recent arguments in the media, muscle pain and fatigue are very common when taking statins. If you want to continue taking the medication, please add 30-60mg CoEnzyme Q10 daily, as routinely prescribed in Italy and Japan.

Our production of CoQ10 falls as time goes on and statins rapidly deplete this substance (50% in the first fortnight), responsible for energy production, hence your symptoms.

Really emphasise plants in your diet, even over low fat foods. Their fibre binds to cholesterol in the gut to prevent its absorption. Enjoy oily fish, garlic and oats to your hearts content and consider Cynara (globe artichoke) as a remedy. It is great added to salads but can be found in tincture form too.

You can make massive changes to your cholesterol level via dietary attention.

I can't tell you to forego the statins (partly because I don't know how high your cholesterol is) but I can promise you confidence in the measures above.

Best wishes

Earle