A recent study done in England has found that it would be cost effective to have statin drugs as condiments at fast food restaurants for those who choose to have cheeseburgers and milkshakes. I am speechless, which for me is quite unusual. I have often joked to my patients that it is not okay to eat their twinkies with their statin drugs. Personal responsibility for healthy eating and exercise is so important when it comes to wellness. This suggestion to me flies in the face of common sense and points out why we are having an obesity epidemic.

There are a lot of tempting foods in our world right now for some of us. Many are not healthy. There are 2000 calorie milkshakes, 700 calorie coffee drinks and 1700 calorie appetizers. As much as we may want to have them, it is time for us all to stand up and say “No!” We adults should know better. It’s one thing if you’re a child and you need to learn that you can’t have everything that you want. But, come on adult world. You cannot have fatty foods along with your statin and think that is okay!
Statins are great for those with high cholesterol and who are at risk for heart attack and stroke. For those who really don’t need it the risks may outweigh the benefits.

The secret to a long, healthy life is eating a healthy diet and exercising. Take a pass on the cheeseburgers and milkshakes with the statin chaser and just live well.