Statins are a group of medications used to decrease cholesterol in the body. This reduction is shown to prevent heart attacks and strokes. Recent research, however, is shedding a new light on the potential benefits of these drugs. In a study involving more than 50,000 patients, statins showed a benefit in patients with atherosclerotic disease, or hardening of the arteries. Not only do the medications lower cholesterol, they have favorable effects on the blood vessels, kidneys, and bone. Statins were shown to decrease blood clot formation and scientists are linking statins to a reduced risk for developing Alzheimer�s disease, prostate and colon cancer, bone fractures, macular degeneration, glaucoma, and osteoporosis. Statins may also be useful for treating multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and certain kidney diseases. The issue at stake here is; the scientists are not exactly sure how they work to combat these diseases. What they do know for sure is statins have a proven track record in preventing strokes and heart attacks. Researchers are speculating that cholesterol causes an increase of plaque buildup in the area of the brain damaged in Alzheimer�s disease. Six published studies show a decrease in dementia or Alzheimer�s disease in those patients using a […] read more