A low fat diet is often recommended to help reduce cholesterol levels, and this approach can be used in conjunction with cholesterol-lowering medications such as Lipitor (atorvastatin). Lipitor is a statin drug that works by blocking a substance your body needs to make cholesterol [1].
According to the American Heart Association, a low-fat diet should include plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and low-fat dairy products [2]. This type of diet can help reduce the intake of saturated and trans fats, which are known to increase cholesterol levels [3].
It's worth noting that while dietary changes can help lower cholesterol, they may not be enough for some people. In these cases, medication like Lipitor may be necessary to reach target cholesterol levels [4].
In fact, a study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that combining a low-fat diet with a statin drug like Lipitor resulted in greater reductions in LDL (bad) cholesterol levels compared to either intervention alone [5].
In conclusion, a low fat diet can be a useful tool in reducing cholesterol levels, and it can be used in conjunction with Lipitor to achieve even greater reductions in LDL cholesterol. However, it's important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment for individual circumstances.
Sources:
1. Mayo Clinic. Lipitor (Atorvastatin). <https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/lipitor-oral-route/description/drg-20063084>
2. American Heart Association. Dietary Fats. <https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/eat-smart/fats/dietary-fats>
3. American Heart Association. Cholesterol. <https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/cholesterol>
4. American Heart Association. Treatment of High Cholesterol. <https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/cholesterol/prevention-and-treatment-of-high-cholesterol-hyperlipidemia/treatment-of-high-cholesterol>
5. Journal of the American College of Cardiology. Effect of Combination Therapy With a Low-Fat Diet and a Statin on Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol Levels. <https://www.jacc.org/doi/full/10.1016/j.jacc.2019.06.052>
6. DrugPatentWatch. Lipitor (Atorvastatin) Drug Profile. <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/lipitor>