Much has happened in the years since 1987 when The 8-Week Cholesterol Cure changed the way Americans think about coronary heart disease. And while cholesterol is still a risk factor for heart disease, the story is more complex than we once thought. In this completely updated book, Robert Kowalski reveals the latest developments in what we now know about heart disease and tells how to effectively combat all the newly discovered risk factors, from homocysteine to the deadly cholesterol Lp (a). He explains why diet is not enough and when supplements must be used, showing how optimal cholesterol levels can be reached without prescription drugs.

Kowalski, who had bypass surgery of his own in 1984, has effectively beaten heart disease by practicing what he preaches. He requires no prescription drugs, lives an unlimited and rigorous lifestyle, enjoys foods like steak and eggs, and has been given a clean bill of health by his physician. Included as well are new cholesterol testing methods; new heart-healthy products; special considerations for women, children, and the elderly; and new recipes.

Since this book first appeared in 1987, scientists have learned much more about cholesterol and its components, associated risk factors, supplements such as B vitamins and niacin, exercise, diet, and stress reduction, and longtime medical journalist Kowalski covers the evolving scientific information in depth. However, he also espouses an initially low-carb, low-calorie diet to induce ketosis and burn fat stores. That's fine for the short term in healthy individuals. But as with any significant change in diet, this one should not be undertaken without a physician's review since it may alter blood sugar levels in diabetics (and many folks have diabetes without realizing it) or require a change in medication levels. For larger collections. Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information.