In this article, I share my personal journey of significantly lowering my cholesterol levels and improving my bone health without altering my exercise, nutrition, or fasting routines. Instead, I introduced a couple of supplements that made a remarkable difference. Here's how I did it.

The Role of Berberine in My Health Regimen

My Cholesterol Levels Over the Years

My journey with cholesterol has been a rollercoaster. Here's a brief overview of my cholesterol levels over the years:

• 2017: 220
• 2018 & 2019: No Data
• 2020: 209
• 2021: 235
• 2023: 247
• 2024: 199

Despite maintaining a consistent lifestyle, my cholesterol levels fluctuated significantly. The turning point came when I started incorporating berberine into my daily supplement routine.

Why I Chose Berberine

Berberine is well-known for its ability to control blood glucose levels, but that wasn't my primary concern. My interest in berberine was piqued by recent research highlighting its potential to lower cholesterol. Given its affordability and lack of side effects, I decided to give it a try. I began taking berberine an hour before breaking my fast, which I have maintained diligently for a year. This single change, combined with my consistent lifestyle, has significantly improved my cholesterol levels.

Additional Factors and Considerations

In the latter part of the year, I also started hormone replacement therapy, which included estradiol patches known to potentially decrease cholesterol levels in women. However, I haven't been on this therapy long enough to see a definitive impact, so I attribute the positive changes primarily to berberine. I plan to continue this regimen and monitor further improvements.

Important Usage Tips for Berberine

If you're considering berberine, especially if you don't have glucose management issues, here are a couple of tips based on my experience:

• Timing: I recommend taking berberine about an hour before you plan to eat, particularly if you are an intermittent faster like me. This helps avoid any potential hypoglycemic episodes, which I experienced when I took berberine without planning to eat soon after.
• Exercise Caution: Avoid taking berberine right before exercise. Since exercise naturally utilizes glucose for energy, taking berberine beforehand can interfere with this process.

Berberine is not only affordable but also easy to incorporate into your daily routine. It offers multiple health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties, making it a versatile supplement.

Improving Bone Health with Supplements

My Journey with Bone Density

My concern about bone health began after a DEXA scan in 2021 showed I had signs of osteopenia. I was determined to prevent it from progressing to osteoporosis. Rather than opting for prescription medications, which often come with undesirable side effects, I chose to explore alternative supplements.

The Role of Thorne's Advanced Bone Support

I discovered Thorne's Advanced Bone Support, a supplement containing essential nutrients like vitamin D, B6, folate, B12, calcium, magnesium, and boron. I started taking two capsules daily and have done so for approximately two and a half years. This regimen has not only halted the progression of osteopenia but has also reversed it in certain areas.

Recent DEXA Scan Results

Here are the results from my most recent DEXA scans compared to those from 2021:

• Spine (L1-L4): From -1.8 (2021) to -1.0 (current)
• Left Hip: From -1.5 (2021) to -1.2 (current)

These improvements are significant, moving my bone density scores closer to normal ranges and reducing my risk of osteoporosis.

Personal Insights and Recommendations

If you're facing similar health concerns, I highly recommend looking into supplements that can support bone health. It's crucial to choose products with proven ingredients and to consult with a healthcare provider to ensure they are appropriate for your specific needs.

The Supplements I used:

Thorne Berberine (Cholesterol) | Advanced Bone Health (Osteopenia)

https://www.thorne.com/u/PR546762

(10% Discount + FREE Shipping)

 *Affiliate Link

Conclusion: Embracing a Holistic Approach to Aging

My journey through managing cholesterol and improving bone health with supplements, alongside intermittent fasting, underscores the power of a holistic approach to health. By integrating natural supplements and fasting into my lifestyle, I've been able to take control of my health and continue to lead an active, fulfilling life.

The Community Aspect

Sharing experiences and tips within a community can be incredibly beneficial. If you have stories of how intermittent fasting or specific supplements have improved your health, I encourage you to find out more about our Intermittent Fasting for Today’s Aging Woman Course and Community. Engaging with others who are on similar journeys can provide motivation and new insights that could be crucial in your own health management.

Staying Informed and Educated

Continuously educating yourself about new health trends, supplements, and lifestyle changes is vital. This not only helps in making informed decisions but also empowers you to take proactive steps towards a healthier future.

Resources and Further Reading

For those interested in diving deeper into the topics discussed in this article, I recommend looking for books, peer-reviewed articles, and credible online resources that provide comprehensive information on intermittent fasting, bone health, and cholesterol management.

Final Thoughts

As we age, it's essential to remain proactive about our health. The combination of a well-rounded diet, regular physical activity, strategic fasting, and the judicious use of supplements can lead to a vibrant and healthy life. Remember, it's not just about adding years to your life, but also life to your years.

Thank you for reading this article. I hope it has inspired you to consider new ways to approach your health and aging. Let's continue to support each other in our journeys to better health and a more fulfilling life.