Question: I am 55 and take Lipitor for a cholesterol level that was 220. I am also taking Boniva for osteopenia. I do not like taking these medications because they cause unwanted side effects. What can I do to bring down my cholesterol naturally and improve my bone density naturally?

Dr. Brownstein's Answer:

There are zero studies showing that a 55-year-old woman has fewer strokes or heart attacks or lives longer by taking a statin drug such as Lipitor. A cholesterol level of 220 may not be that high. In fact, I find most of my patients achieve their optimal health with a cholesterol level ranging between 180- 250 mg/dl.

As for Boniva, this class of medications hasn't shown a clear benefit for reducing bone fracture risk. The best way to prevent poor bone health is to eat a good diet and get regular exercise, which also helps achieve better heart health.

More information on these two drugs can be found in my book, "Drugs That Don’t Work and Natural Therapies That Do." These two medications are examples of drugs that don’t work.