High Cholesterol and Fibromyalgia: Are Omega-3s Helpful?

Good morning, I have slightly high cholesterol (240). I cannot take statins, not even natural ones like monacolin from fermented red yeast rice because I suffer from fibromyalgia. Fibromyalgia causes me a lot of pain, insomnia, and physical/mental fatigue. My ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate) is always high. I ask for advice on the best choice to control cholesterol and, if possible, also the other discomforts related to fibromyalgia. Thank you.

Dear Maria,

Regarding cholesterol, if even monacolin K (natural statin) is not well tolerated, I suggest discussing with your doctor the possibility of taking Eulipid, 1 tablet per day before dinner. Eulipid is a supplement based on berberine from Berberis aristata, resveratrol from Polygonum cuspidatum, and citrus bioflavonoids with tocotrienols, policosanols, and coenzyme Q10, indicated for maintaining normal blood cholesterol levels.

Regarding fibromyalgia, a condition characterized by widespread muscle pain associated with fatigue, stiffness, insomnia, memory problems, and mood changes—as you described—I recommend Omegor Twinefa, 3 capsules per day to be taken near a main meal. Omegor Twinefa, formulated with omega-3 EPA and DHA fatty acids in triglyceride form (a more bioavailable form for our body) and an omega-6 ingredient, GLA from borage oil, helps reduce the production of chemical pain mediators (pro-inflammatory eicosanoids) in favor of anti-inflammatory substances.

The omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA and omega-6 GLA have also been shown to improve mood by maintaining adequate levels of the neurotransmitter serotonin and to help maintain skeletal integrity by preventing bone demineralization, as well as having a positive effect on sleep quality.

I recommend informing your doctor when starting supplementation, as they have a more complete clinical picture and can evaluate the physiological benefits of the supplementation. Also, after three months of supplementation, I suggest repeating the blood test for ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate). The ESR test is nonspecific, meaning it does not detect any particular condition but indicates a possible ongoing inflammatory state.

Best regards,

Beatrice Iozzino, Pharmacist