HDL improvement via diet

"Brad Sheppard" <[email hidden]> wrote in message
news:[email hidden]...

Quoted message said:

My HDL vs LDL has keep improving this year to the point where they are
now equal:
jan hdl 51 ldl 79
may hdl 59 ldl 71
july hdl 68 ldl 74
sept hdl 67 ldl 67 Ratio CHOL/HDLC 2.2

Key dietary changes 1) a drink a day 2) oily fish or fish oil capsules
every day 3) no refined grains, added sugars, or white potatoes 4)
more servings of nuts (peanuts, walnuts) 5) (last 51 days) - eating 7
equal calorie meals thru out the day. My CRP is also extremely good -
.11 My blood pressure has declined as well, from 127/80 (ok- not
great) to a stellar 105/65. I seem not to be getting older, but
better! No - I didn't add any medication this year. If anyone is
interested I'll post my typical days diet.

Congratulations. I have had similiar results with a similiar diet and here
are the before and during lipid profiles from the same lab.

Started Low Carb diet in May 2003
Age: 58
Height 6 foot 1/2 inch

Date 7-Mar 17-Sep

Weight 230 207
Total Cholesterol 194 229
Triglycerides 65 31
HDL 58 86
LDL 122 136.8

Ratio of Total / HDL 3.34 2.66
Ratio of Tri / HDL 1.12 .360

"M. Schwartz" schrieb:

Quoted message said:

[email hidden] (Brad Sheppard) wrote in message news:<[email hidden]>...

Quoted message said:

My HDL vs LDL has keep improving this year to the point where they are
now equal:
jan hdl 51 ldl 79
may hdl 59 ldl 71
july hdl 68 ldl 74
sept hdl 67 ldl 67 Ratio CHOL/HDLC 2.2

Key dietary changes 1) a drink a day 2) oily fish or fish oil capsules
every day 3) no refined grains, added sugars, or white potatoes 4)
more servings of nuts (peanuts, walnuts) 5) (last 51 days) - eating 7
equal calorie meals thru out the day. My CRP is also extremely good -
.11 My blood pressure has declined as well, from 127/80 (ok- not
great) to a stellar 105/65. I seem not to be getting older, but
better! No - I didn't add any medication this year. If anyone is
interested I'll post my typical days diet.

Your HDL is dropping. This could be a dangerous trend.

You may have misread the data. The way I read them, the HDL rose
significantly from 51 in January to 68 in July and then dropped by a
single point to 67 in September. I would'nt call this drop a trend. It's
the LDL which has dropped from 79 in January to 67 in September.

Thorsten

--
"Nothing in biology makes sense, except in the light of evolution"

(Theodosius Dobzhansky)

Thorsten Schier <[email hidden]> wrote in message news:<[email hidden]>...

Quoted message said:

"M. Schwartz" schrieb:

Quoted message said:

[email hidden] (Brad Sheppard) wrote in message news:<[email hidden]>...

Quoted message said:

My HDL vs LDL has keep improving this year to the point where they are
now equal:
jan hdl 51 ldl 79
may hdl 59 ldl 71
july hdl 68 ldl 74
sept hdl 67 ldl 67 Ratio CHOL/HDLC 2.2

Key dietary changes 1) a drink a day 2) oily fish or fish oil capsules
every day 3) no refined grains, added sugars, or white potatoes 4)
more servings of nuts (peanuts, walnuts) 5) (last 51 days) - eating 7
equal calorie meals thru out the day. My CRP is also extremely good -
.11 My blood pressure has declined as well, from 127/80 (ok- not
great) to a stellar 105/65. I seem not to be getting older, but
better! No - I didn't add any medication this year. If anyone is
interested I'll post my typical days diet.

Your HDL is dropping. This could be a dangerous trend.

You may have misread the data. The way I read them, the HDL rose
significantly from 51 in January to 68 in July and then dropped by a
single point to 67 in September. I would'nt call this drop a trend. It's
the LDL which has dropped from 79 in January to 67 in September.

Thorsten

Thorsten, I was only teasing him.

Mel

Brad, you have not mentioned that you spend a lot of time per day
exercising.

That could well be the key to your improvement, not the diet as such.

By the way, I also eat a spoon of fish oil every day. (never liked the
capsules)

i

In article said:

My HDL vs LDL has keep improving this year to the point where they are
now equal:
jan hdl 51 ldl 79
may hdl 59 ldl 71
july hdl 68 ldl 74
sept hdl 67 ldl 67 Ratio CHOL/HDLC 2.2

Key dietary changes 1) a drink a day 2) oily fish or fish oil capsules
every day 3) no refined grains, added sugars, or white potatoes 4)
more servings of nuts (peanuts, walnuts) 5) (last 51 days) - eating 7
equal calorie meals thru out the day. My CRP is also extremely good -
.11 My blood pressure has declined as well, from 127/80 (ok- not
great) to a stellar 105/65. I seem not to be getting older, but
better! No - I didn't add any medication this year. If anyone is
interested I'll post my typical days diet.

Hi there Mel!

Did you get your treadmill yet? I'd suggest being more pro-active.
You never got at CRP test, or Hba1c, either? If you have a high
degree of inflammation, that can be addressed. Moderate drinking is
one way - hmmm, we talked about that before. I seem to sense
underlying anger or hostility - yes? Not good for your arteries.
Meditation might help. Re: my HDL - my lipid profile has improved on
each of the four readings and I expect another improvement in two
weeks (another test). I also have room for improvement on my Hba1c -
at 5.2 it's just ok, not great. A lower Hba1c means lower mortality.
Hba1c is the amount of glucose sticking to your blood cells - over 7
is diabetic. Re: your story - hey, we should strive to do the best we
can. I'm not fatalistic. I'd like to live to a ripe old age in good
health.

[email hidden] (M. Schwartz) wrote in message news:<[email hidden]>...

Quoted message said:

[email hidden] (Brad Sheppard) wrote in message news:<[email hidden]>...

Quoted message said:

My HDL vs LDL has keep improving this year to the point where they are
now equal:
jan hdl 51 ldl 79
may hdl 59 ldl 71
july hdl 68 ldl 74
sept hdl 67 ldl 67 Ratio CHOL/HDLC 2.2

Key dietary changes 1) a drink a day 2) oily fish or fish oil capsules
every day 3) no refined grains, added sugars, or white potatoes 4)
more servings of nuts (peanuts, walnuts) 5) (last 51 days) - eating 7
equal calorie meals thru out the day. My CRP is also extremely good -
.11 My blood pressure has declined as well, from 127/80 (ok- not
great) to a stellar 105/65. I seem not to be getting older, but
better! No - I didn't add any medication this year. If anyone is
interested I'll post my typical days diet.

Your HDL is dropping. This could be a dangerous trend.

Brad, we are all getting older. Every day we get one day closer to the
grave.

I knew a fellow who had an HDL of 77, LDL of 82, TG of 63, TC of 164
and without any statin drug. He was a real fanatic about exercise and
jogged every morning for around five miles. He was mostly vegetarian
but did eat salmon. He had a blood pressure of 110/65 and was just 42
years old. Everyone marveled at his athletic and youthful appearance.
People would say this guy is going to make it to 100 years old for
sure. At 42 he looked like someone in their twenties. He bought all
his food except for salmon at the health food store. He wouldn't touch
any refined carbs or sugar or any dairy product.

You should have seen him whizzing by so fast that not even the dogs
could catch him. His Nike sneakers were just a blur. "There he goes"
people would say, a look of amazement upon their faces.

Then one day while he was jogging, a guy on a motorcycle came around
the curve so fast and boom! It was not a pretty scene. Terrible. The
guy with great cholesterol numbers and terrific blood pressure no
longer had a blood pressure.

Only 42 the people said. And he looked so young they said.

Well, to make a long story short, they found his Nike sneakers and
buried him in his jogging gear. A real shame. I mean, they were real
expensive Nike sneakers. Anyway, that's life. One day you're here, and
the next day...

Mel

"Ignoramus21432" <[email hidden]> wrote in message
news:[email hidden]...

Quoted message said:

Brad, you have not mentioned that you spend a lot of time per day
exercising.

That could well be the key to your improvement, not the diet as such.

By the way, I also eat a spoon of fish oil every day. (never liked the
capsules)

I have had similiar results on a low carb diet. I exercise the same now as
I did before starting the diet. I attribute ALL of the improvement in my
lipid profile to the low carb eating style.

Quoted message said:

i

In article <[email hidden]>, Brad

Sheppard said:

Quoted message said:

My HDL vs LDL has keep improving this year to the point where they are
now equal:
jan hdl 51 ldl 79
may hdl 59 ldl 71
july hdl 68 ldl 74
sept hdl 67 ldl 67 Ratio CHOL/HDLC 2.2

Key dietary changes 1) a drink a day 2) oily fish or fish oil capsules
every day 3) no refined grains, added sugars, or white potatoes 4)
more servings of nuts (peanuts, walnuts) 5) (last 51 days) - eating 7
equal calorie meals thru out the day. My CRP is also extremely good -
.11 My blood pressure has declined as well, from 127/80 (ok- not
great) to a stellar 105/65. I seem not to be getting older, but
better! No - I didn't add any medication this year. If anyone is
interested I'll post my typical days diet.

[email hidden] (Brad Sheppard) wrote in message news:<[email hidden]>...

Brad, why do sense underlying anger or hostility?

I haven't purchased a treadmill. I will be going to the Mall and
checking it out. If it feels okay, then I will do some research on
brands before buying. I much prefer walking outdoors but the winter
here is just too harsh.

My cardiologist says the CRP test is not of any use for me.

Red wine? Well, my cardiologist says just one or two glasses a week or
risk liver problems. I don't feel comfortable taking a chance on
making matters worse.

I agree we should strive to do the best we can. I think living to a
ripe old age in good health requires lots of luck. If your fellow man
doesn't kill you, then something else will either kill a part or all
of you. I don't see too many healthy people over 70 jogging on the
road. :-)

Ahh, maybe they're at home with some 22 year old chick. :-))

Mel

Quoted message said:

Hi there Mel!

Did you get your treadmill yet? I'd suggest being more pro-active.
You never got at CRP test, or Hba1c, either? If you have a high
degree of inflammation, that can be addressed. Moderate drinking is
one way - hmmm, we talked about that before. I seem to sense
underlying anger or hostility - yes? Not good for your arteries.
Meditation might help. Re: my HDL - my lipid profile has improved on
each of the four readings and I expect another improvement in two
weeks (another test). I also have room for improvement on my Hba1c -
at 5.2 it's just ok, not great. A lower Hba1c means lower mortality.
Hba1c is the amount of glucose sticking to your blood cells - over 7
is diabetic. Re: your story - hey, we should strive to do the best we
can. I'm not fatalistic. I'd like to live to a ripe old age in good
health.

[email hidden] (M. Schwartz) wrote in message news:<[email hidden]>...

Quoted message said:

[email hidden] (Brad Sheppard) wrote in message news:<[email hidden]>...

Quoted message said:

My HDL vs LDL has keep improving this year to the point where they are
now equal:
jan hdl 51 ldl 79
may hdl 59 ldl 71
july hdl 68 ldl 74
sept hdl 67 ldl 67 Ratio CHOL/HDLC 2.2

Key dietary changes 1) a drink a day 2) oily fish or fish oil capsules
every day 3) no refined grains, added sugars, or white potatoes 4)
more servings of nuts (peanuts, walnuts) 5) (last 51 days) - eating 7
equal calorie meals thru out the day. My CRP is also extremely good -
.11 My blood pressure has declined as well, from 127/80 (ok- not
great) to a stellar 105/65. I seem not to be getting older, but
better! No - I didn't add any medication this year. If anyone is
interested I'll post my typical days diet.

Your HDL is dropping. This could be a dangerous trend.

Brad, we are all getting older. Every day we get one day closer to the
grave.

I knew a fellow who had an HDL of 77, LDL of 82, TG of 63, TC of 164
and without any statin drug. He was a real fanatic about exercise and
jogged every morning for around five miles. He was mostly vegetarian
but did eat salmon. He had a blood pressure of 110/65 and was just 42
years old. Everyone marveled at his athletic and youthful appearance.
People would say this guy is going to make it to 100 years old for
sure. At 42 he looked like someone in their twenties. He bought all
his food except for salmon at the health food store. He wouldn't touch
any refined carbs or sugar or any dairy product.

You should have seen him whizzing by so fast that not even the dogs
could catch him. His Nike sneakers were just a blur. "There he goes"
people would say, a look of amazement upon their faces.

Then one day while he was jogging, a guy on a motorcycle came around
the curve so fast and boom! It was not a pretty scene. Terrible. The
guy with great cholesterol numbers and terrific blood pressure no
longer had a blood pressure.

Only 42 the people said. And he looked so young they said.

Well, to make a long story short, they found his Nike sneakers and
buried him in his jogging gear. A real shame. I mean, they were real
expensive Nike sneakers. Anyway, that's life. One day you're here, and
the next day...

Mel

Mel,

Your doc is wrong on both counts (CRP test and alcohol), but you
really shouldn't listen to me. I know it would cost you $$$ to get a
second opinion, and maybe you're comfortable with your current doc.
In my opinion, the alcohol could reduce your risk by 20 - 40 percent,
and also lower your overall mortality. re: CRP test - no harm in
taking it - it may provide valuable info. Re: liver problems- highly
doubtful from 1 - 2 drinks a day, and you're being monitored on a
regualr basis because of your statin drug. Re: living to a healthy old
age takes luck - some, but we also make our own luck. Dr. Willett
says that our Western diet causes 60-80 percent of heart disease. If
you're science oriented read
http://www.sciam.com/article.cfm?articleID=0007C5B6-7152-1DF6-9733809EC588EEDF

[email hidden] (M. Schwartz) wrote in message news:<[email hidden]>...

Quoted message said:

[email hidden] (Brad Sheppard) wrote in message news:<[email hidden]>...

Brad, why do sense underlying anger or hostility?

I haven't purchased a treadmill. I will be going to the Mall and
checking it out. If it feels okay, then I will do some research on
brands before buying. I much prefer walking outdoors but the winter
here is just too harsh.

My cardiologist says the CRP test is not of any use for me.

Red wine? Well, my cardiologist says just one or two glasses a week or
risk liver problems. I don't feel comfortable taking a chance on
making matters worse.

I agree we should strive to do the best we can. I think living to a
ripe old age in good health requires lots of luck. If your fellow man
doesn't kill you, then something else will either kill a part or all
of you. I don't see too many healthy people over 70 jogging on the
road. :-)

Ahh, maybe they're at home with some 22 year old chick. :-))

Mel

Quoted message said:

Hi there Mel!

Did you get your treadmill yet? I'd suggest being more pro-active.
You never got at CRP test, or Hba1c, either? If you have a high
degree of inflammation, that can be addressed. Moderate drinking is
one way - hmmm, we talked about that before. I seem to sense
underlying anger or hostility - yes? Not good for your arteries.
Meditation might help. Re: my HDL - my lipid profile has improved on
each of the four readings and I expect another improvement in two
weeks (another test). I also have room for improvement on my Hba1c -
at 5.2 it's just ok, not great. A lower Hba1c means lower mortality.
Hba1c is the amount of glucose sticking to your blood cells - over 7
is diabetic. Re: your story - hey, we should strive to do the best we
can. I'm not fatalistic. I'd like to live to a ripe old age in good
health.

[email hidden] (M. Schwartz) wrote in message news:<[email hidden]>...

Quoted message said:

[email hidden] (Brad Sheppard) wrote in message news:<[email hidden]>...
> My HDL vs LDL has keep improving this year to the point where they are
> now equal:
> jan hdl 51 ldl 79
> may hdl 59 ldl 71
> july hdl 68 ldl 74
> sept hdl 67 ldl 67 Ratio CHOL/HDLC 2.2
>
> Key dietary changes 1) a drink a day 2) oily fish or fish oil capsules
> every day 3) no refined grains, added sugars, or white potatoes 4)
> more servings of nuts (peanuts, walnuts) 5) (last 51 days) - eating 7
> equal calorie meals thru out the day. My CRP is also extremely good -
> .11 My blood pressure has declined as well, from 127/80 (ok- not
> great) to a stellar 105/65. I seem not to be getting older, but
> better! No - I didn't add any medication this year. If anyone is
> interested I'll post my typical days diet.

Your HDL is dropping. This could be a dangerous trend.

Brad, we are all getting older. Every day we get one day closer to the
grave.

I knew a fellow who had an HDL of 77, LDL of 82, TG of 63, TC of 164
and without any statin drug. He was a real fanatic about exercise and
jogged every morning for around five miles. He was mostly vegetarian
but did eat salmon. He had a blood pressure of 110/65 and was just 42
years old. Everyone marveled at his athletic and youthful appearance.
People would say this guy is going to make it to 100 years old for
sure. At 42 he looked like someone in their twenties. He bought all
his food except for salmon at the health food store. He wouldn't touch
any refined carbs or sugar or any dairy product.

You should have seen him whizzing by so fast that not even the dogs
could catch him. His Nike sneakers were just a blur. "There he goes"
people would say, a look of amazement upon their faces.

Then one day while he was jogging, a guy on a motorcycle came around
the curve so fast and boom! It was not a pretty scene. Terrible. The
guy with great cholesterol numbers and terrific blood pressure no
longer had a blood pressure.

Only 42 the people said. And he looked so young they said.

Well, to make a long story short, they found his Nike sneakers and
buried him in his jogging gear. A real shame. I mean, they were real
expensive Nike sneakers. Anyway, that's life. One day you're here, and
the next day...

Mel

[email hidden] (Brad Sheppard) wrote in message news:<[email hidden]>...

Brad, I do have lots of respect for Dr. Willett. I have learned much
from his book "Eat, Drink, And Be Healthy".

I don't have a problem paying doctors because my insurance pays the
whole thing. I just kind of like my present cardiologist. However, I
have to find out more about the red wine thing.

I kind of feel it's hard to change my present routine of water with
meals followed by green tea at lunch and dinner (after the water).

I would think there is no harm taking a CRP test and will again ask my
cardiologist at the next visit. Maybe just comparing the difference
between test results could be of some value?

Mel

Quoted message said:

Mel,

Your doc is wrong on both counts (CRP test and alcohol), but you
really shouldn't listen to me. I know it would cost you $$$ to get a
second opinion, and maybe you're comfortable with your current doc.
In my opinion, the alcohol could reduce your risk by 20 - 40 percent,
and also lower your overall mortality. re: CRP test - no harm in
taking it - it may provide valuable info. Re: liver problems- highly
doubtful from 1 - 2 drinks a day, and you're being monitored on a
regualr basis because of your statin drug. Re: living to a healthy old
age takes luck - some, but we also make our own luck. Dr. Willett
says that our Western diet causes 60-80 percent of heart disease. If
you're science oriented read
http://www.sciam.com/article.cfm?articleID=0007C5B6-7152-1DF6-9733809EC588EEDF

[email hidden] (M. Schwartz) wrote in message news:<[email hidden]>...

Quoted message said:

[email hidden] (Brad Sheppard) wrote in message news:<[email hidden]>...

Brad, why do sense underlying anger or hostility?

I haven't purchased a treadmill. I will be going to the Mall and
checking it out. If it feels okay, then I will do some research on
brands before buying. I much prefer walking outdoors but the winter
here is just too harsh.

My cardiologist says the CRP test is not of any use for me.

Red wine? Well, my cardiologist says just one or two glasses a week or
risk liver problems. I don't feel comfortable taking a chance on
making matters worse.

I agree we should strive to do the best we can. I think living to a
ripe old age in good health requires lots of luck. If your fellow man
doesn't kill you, then something else will either kill a part or all
of you. I don't see too many healthy people over 70 jogging on the
road. :-)

Ahh, maybe they're at home with some 22 year old chick. :-))

Mel

Quoted message said:

Hi there Mel!

Did you get your treadmill yet? I'd suggest being more pro-active.
You never got at CRP test, or Hba1c, either? If you have a high
degree of inflammation, that can be addressed. Moderate drinking is
one way - hmmm, we talked about that before. I seem to sense
underlying anger or hostility - yes? Not good for your arteries.
Meditation might help. Re: my HDL - my lipid profile has improved on
each of the four readings and I expect another improvement in two
weeks (another test). I also have room for improvement on my Hba1c -
at 5.2 it's just ok, not great. A lower Hba1c means lower mortality.
Hba1c is the amount of glucose sticking to your blood cells - over 7
is diabetic. Re: your story - hey, we should strive to do the best we
can. I'm not fatalistic. I'd like to live to a ripe old age in good
health.

[email hidden] (M. Schwartz) wrote in message news:<[email hidden]>...
> [email hidden] (Brad Sheppard) wrote in message news:<[email hidden]>...
> > My HDL vs LDL has keep improving this year to the point where they are
> > now equal:
> > jan hdl 51 ldl 79
> > may hdl 59 ldl 71
> > july hdl 68 ldl 74
> > sept hdl 67 ldl 67 Ratio CHOL/HDLC 2.2
> >
> > Key dietary changes 1) a drink a day 2) oily fish or fish oil capsules
> > every day 3) no refined grains, added sugars, or white potatoes 4)
> > more servings of nuts (peanuts, walnuts) 5) (last 51 days) - eating 7
> > equal calorie meals thru out the day. My CRP is also extremely good -
> > .11 My blood pressure has declined as well, from 127/80 (ok- not
> > great) to a stellar 105/65. I seem not to be getting older, but
> > better! No - I didn't add any medication this year. If anyone is
> > interested I'll post my typical days diet.
>
> Your HDL is dropping. This could be a dangerous trend.
>
> Brad, we are all getting older. Every day we get one day closer to the
> grave.
>
> I knew a fellow who had an HDL of 77, LDL of 82, TG of 63, TC of 164
> and without any statin drug. He was a real fanatic about exercise and
> jogged every morning for around five miles. He was mostly vegetarian
> but did eat salmon. He had a blood pressure of 110/65 and was just 42
> years old. Everyone marveled at his athletic and youthful appearance.
> People would say this guy is going to make it to 100 years old for
> sure. At 42 he looked like someone in their twenties. He bought all
> his food except for salmon at the health food store. He wouldn't touch
> any refined carbs or sugar or any dairy product.
>
> You should have seen him whizzing by so fast that not even the dogs
> could catch him. His Nike sneakers were just a blur. "There he goes"
> people would say, a look of amazement upon their faces.
>
> Then one day while he was jogging, a guy on a motorcycle came around
> the curve so fast and boom! It was not a pretty scene. Terrible. The
> guy with great cholesterol numbers and terrific blood pressure no
> longer had a blood pressure.
>
> Only 42 the people said. And he looked so young they said.
>
> Well, to make a long story short, they found his Nike sneakers and
> buried him in his jogging gear. A real shame. I mean, they were real
> expensive Nike sneakers. Anyway, that's life. One day you're here, and
> the next day...
>
> Mel

Mel,

Yeah - red wine is good stuff! You really only need one drink a day
(at your weight). I drink green tea with meals and after meals - have
you tried any of the flavored green teas - yum! Re: CRP - it
certainly can't hurt - if you have sources of inflammation like gum
disease they should be dealt with. If your CRP is high you might try
some of the dietary strategies to lower it. It is true that these
strategies to lower a high CRP have not yet been proven to prevent
heart disease - but then again it's unlikely that the strategies will
do any harm. If your CRP is ok it's one less thing to worry about.
Re: Dr. Willett - his book is great - I've also looked at some of his
research - very impressive, at least to me. Dr. Willett et al. was
the inventor of "glycemic load" which is being used more and more. Dr.
Willett's group, along with others, has finally pushed the USDA to
revise its outdated food pyramid.

[email hidden] (M. Schwartz) wrote in message news:<[email hidden]>...

Quoted message said:

[email hidden] (Brad Sheppard) wrote in message news:<[email hidden]>...

Brad, I do have lots of respect for Dr. Willett. I have learned much
from his book "Eat, Drink, And Be Healthy".

I don't have a problem paying doctors because my insurance pays the
whole thing. I just kind of like my present cardiologist. However, I
have to find out more about the red wine thing.

I kind of feel it's hard to change my present routine of water with
meals followed by green tea at lunch and dinner (after the water).

I would think there is no harm taking a CRP test and will again ask my
cardiologist at the next visit. Maybe just comparing the difference
between test results could be of some value?

Mel

Quoted message said:

Mel,

Your doc is wrong on both counts (CRP test and alcohol), but you
really shouldn't listen to me. I know it would cost you $$$ to get a
second opinion, and maybe you're comfortable with your current doc.
In my opinion, the alcohol could reduce your risk by 20 - 40 percent,
and also lower your overall mortality. re: CRP test - no harm in
taking it - it may provide valuable info. Re: liver problems- highly
doubtful from 1 - 2 drinks a day, and you're being monitored on a
regualr basis because of your statin drug. Re: living to a healthy old
age takes luck - some, but we also make our own luck. Dr. Willett
says that our Western diet causes 60-80 percent of heart disease. If
you're science oriented read
http://www.sciam.com/article.cfm?articleID=0007C5B6-7152-1DF6-9733809EC588EEDF

[email hidden] (M. Schwartz) wrote in message news:<[email hidden]>...

Quoted message said:

[email hidden] (Brad Sheppard) wrote in message news:<[email hidden]>...

Brad, why do sense underlying anger or hostility?

I haven't purchased a treadmill. I will be going to the Mall and
checking it out. If it feels okay, then I will do some research on
brands before buying. I much prefer walking outdoors but the winter
here is just too harsh.

My cardiologist says the CRP test is not of any use for me.

Red wine? Well, my cardiologist says just one or two glasses a week or
risk liver problems. I don't feel comfortable taking a chance on
making matters worse.

I agree we should strive to do the best we can. I think living to a
ripe old age in good health requires lots of luck. If your fellow man
doesn't kill you, then something else will either kill a part or all
of you. I don't see too many healthy people over 70 jogging on the
road. :-)

Ahh, maybe they're at home with some 22 year old chick. :-))

Mel

> Hi there Mel!
>
> Did you get your treadmill yet? I'd suggest being more pro-active.
> You never got at CRP test, or Hba1c, either? If you have a high
> degree of inflammation, that can be addressed. Moderate drinking is
> one way - hmmm, we talked about that before. I seem to sense
> underlying anger or hostility - yes? Not good for your arteries.
> Meditation might help. Re: my HDL - my lipid profile has improved on
> each of the four readings and I expect another improvement in two
> weeks (another test). I also have room for improvement on my Hba1c -
> at 5.2 it's just ok, not great. A lower Hba1c means lower mortality.
> Hba1c is the amount of glucose sticking to your blood cells - over 7
> is diabetic. Re: your story - hey, we should strive to do the best we
> can. I'm not fatalistic. I'd like to live to a ripe old age in good
> health.
>
> [email hidden] (M. Schwartz) wrote in message news:<[email hidden]>...
> > [email hidden] (Brad Sheppard) wrote in message news:<[email hidden]>...
> > > My HDL vs LDL has keep improving this year to the point where they are
> > > now equal:
> > > jan hdl 51 ldl 79
> > > may hdl 59 ldl 71
> > > july hdl 68 ldl 74
> > > sept hdl 67 ldl 67 Ratio CHOL/HDLC 2.2
> > >
> > > Key dietary changes 1) a drink a day 2) oily fish or fish oil capsules
> > > every day 3) no refined grains, added sugars, or white potatoes 4)
> > > more servings of nuts (peanuts, walnuts) 5) (last 51 days) - eating 7
> > > equal calorie meals thru out the day. My CRP is also extremely good -
> > > .11 My blood pressure has declined as well, from 127/80 (ok- not
> > > great) to a stellar 105/65. I seem not to be getting older, but
> > > better! No - I didn't add any medication this year. If anyone is
> > > interested I'll post my typical days diet.
> >
> > Your HDL is dropping. This could be a dangerous trend.
> >
> > Brad, we are all getting older. Every day we get one day closer to the
> > grave.
> >
> > I knew a fellow who had an HDL of 77, LDL of 82, TG of 63, TC of 164
> > and without any statin drug. He was a real fanatic about exercise and
> > jogged every morning for around five miles. He was mostly vegetarian
> > but did eat salmon. He had a blood pressure of 110/65 and was just 42
> > years old. Everyone marveled at his athletic and youthful appearance.
> > People would say this guy is going to make it to 100 years old for
> > sure. At 42 he looked like someone in their twenties. He bought all
> > his food except for salmon at the health food store. He wouldn't touch
> > any refined carbs or sugar or any dairy product.
> >
> > You should have seen him whizzing by so fast that not even the dogs
> > could catch him. His Nike sneakers were just a blur. "There he goes"
> > people would say, a look of amazement upon their faces.
> >
> > Then one day while he was jogging, a guy on a motorcycle came around
> > the curve so fast and boom! It was not a pretty scene. Terrible. The
> > guy with great cholesterol numbers and terrific blood pressure no
> > longer had a blood pressure.
> >
> > Only 42 the people said. And he looked so young they said.
> >
> > Well, to make a long story short, they found his Nike sneakers and
> > buried him in his jogging gear. A real shame. I mean, they were real
> > expensive Nike sneakers. Anyway, that's life. One day you're here, and
> > the next day...
> >
> > Mel

Brad, I have not tried any of the flavored teas. I wonder if the flavored
teas have less of the antioxidant benefit.

When do you drink red wine? At dinner? How about the time frame of red wine
and your supplements?

Mel

"Brad Sheppard" <[email hidden]> wrote in message
news:[email hidden]...

Quoted message said:

Mel,

Yeah - red wine is good stuff! You really only need one drink a day
(at your weight). I drink green tea with meals and after meals - have
you tried any of the flavored green teas - yum! Re: CRP - it
certainly can't hurt - if you have sources of inflammation like gum
disease they should be dealt with. If your CRP is high you might try
some of the dietary strategies to lower it. It is true that these
strategies to lower a high CRP have not yet been proven to prevent
heart disease - but then again it's unlikely that the strategies will
do any harm. If your CRP is ok it's one less thing to worry about.
Re: Dr. Willett - his book is great - I've also looked at some of his
research - very impressive, at least to me. Dr. Willett et al. was
the inventor of "glycemic load" which is being used more and more. Dr.
Willett's group, along with others, has finally pushed the USDA to
revise its outdated food pyramid.

[email hidden] (M. Schwartz) wrote in message

news:<[email hidden]>...

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

[email hidden] (Brad Sheppard) wrote in message

news:<[email hidden]>...

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Brad, I do have lots of respect for Dr. Willett. I have learned much
from his book "Eat, Drink, And Be Healthy".

I don't have a problem paying doctors because my insurance pays the
whole thing. I just kind of like my present cardiologist. However, I
have to find out more about the red wine thing.

I kind of feel it's hard to change my present routine of water with
meals followed by green tea at lunch and dinner (after the water).

I would think there is no harm taking a CRP test and will again ask my
cardiologist at the next visit. Maybe just comparing the difference
between test results could be of some value?

Mel

Quoted message said:

Mel,

Your doc is wrong on both counts (CRP test and alcohol), but you
really shouldn't listen to me. I know it would cost you $$$ to get a
second opinion, and maybe you're comfortable with your current doc.
In my opinion, the alcohol could reduce your risk by 20 - 40 percent,
and also lower your overall mortality. re: CRP test - no harm in
taking it - it may provide valuable info. Re: liver problems- highly
doubtful from 1 - 2 drinks a day, and you're being monitored on a
regualr basis because of your statin drug. Re: living to a healthy old
age takes luck - some, but we also make our own luck. Dr. Willett
says that our Western diet causes 60-80 percent of heart disease. If
you're science oriented read

http://www.sciam.com/article.cfm?articleID=0007C5B6-7152-1DF6-9733809EC588EEDF

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

[email hidden] (M. Schwartz) wrote in message

news:<[email hidden]>...

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> [email hidden] (Brad Sheppard) wrote in message

news:<[email hidden]>...

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

>
> Brad, why do sense underlying anger or hostility?
>
> I haven't purchased a treadmill. I will be going to the Mall and
> checking it out. If it feels okay, then I will do some research on
> brands before buying. I much prefer walking outdoors but the winter
> here is just too harsh.
>
> My cardiologist says the CRP test is not of any use for me.
>
> Red wine? Well, my cardiologist says just one or two glasses a week

or

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> risk liver problems. I don't feel comfortable taking a chance on
> making matters worse.
>
> I agree we should strive to do the best we can. I think living to a
> ripe old age in good health requires lots of luck. If your fellow

man

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> doesn't kill you, then something else will either kill a part or all
> of you. I don't see too many healthy people over 70 jogging on the
> road. :-)
>
> Ahh, maybe they're at home with some 22 year old chick. :-))
>
> Mel
>
> > Hi there Mel!
> >
> > Did you get your treadmill yet? I'd suggest being more

pro-active.

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > You never got at CRP test, or Hba1c, either? If you have a high
> > degree of inflammation, that can be addressed. Moderate drinking

is

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > one way - hmmm, we talked about that before. I seem to sense
> > underlying anger or hostility - yes? Not good for your arteries.
> > Meditation might help. Re: my HDL - my lipid profile has improved

on

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > each of the four readings and I expect another improvement in two
> > weeks (another test). I also have room for improvement on my

Hba1c -

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > at 5.2 it's just ok, not great. A lower Hba1c means lower

mortality.

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > Hba1c is the amount of glucose sticking to your blood cells - over

7

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > is diabetic. Re: your story - hey, we should strive to do the

best we

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > can. I'm not fatalistic. I'd like to live to a ripe old age in

good

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > health.
> >
> > [email hidden] (M. Schwartz) wrote in message

news:<[email hidden]>...

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > [email hidden] (Brad Sheppard) wrote in message

news:<[email hidden]>...

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > > My HDL vs LDL has keep improving this year to the point where

they are

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > > now equal:
> > > > jan hdl 51 ldl 79
> > > > may hdl 59 ldl 71
> > > > july hdl 68 ldl 74
> > > > sept hdl 67 ldl 67 Ratio CHOL/HDLC 2.2
> > > >
> > > > Key dietary changes 1) a drink a day 2) oily fish or fish oil

capsules

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > > every day 3) no refined grains, added sugars, or white

potatoes 4)

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > > more servings of nuts (peanuts, walnuts) 5) (last 51 days) -

eating 7

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > > equal calorie meals thru out the day. My CRP is also

extremely good -

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > > .11 My blood pressure has declined as well, from 127/80 (ok-

not

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > > great) to a stellar 105/65. I seem not to be getting older,

but

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > > better! No - I didn't add any medication this year. If

anyone is

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > > interested I'll post my typical days diet.
> > >
> > > Your HDL is dropping. This could be a dangerous trend.
> > >
> > > Brad, we are all getting older. Every day we get one day closer

to the

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > grave.
> > >
> > > I knew a fellow who had an HDL of 77, LDL of 82, TG of 63, TC of

164

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > and without any statin drug. He was a real fanatic about

exercise and

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > jogged every morning for around five miles. He was mostly

vegetarian

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > but did eat salmon. He had a blood pressure of 110/65 and was

just 42

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > years old. Everyone marveled at his athletic and youthful

appearance.

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > People would say this guy is going to make it to 100 years old

for

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > sure. At 42 he looked like someone in their twenties. He bought

all

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > his food except for salmon at the health food store. He wouldn't

touch

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > any refined carbs or sugar or any dairy product.
> > >
> > > You should have seen him whizzing by so fast that not even the

dogs

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > could catch him. His Nike sneakers were just a blur. "There he

goes"

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > people would say, a look of amazement upon their faces.
> > >
> > > Then one day while he was jogging, a guy on a motorcycle came

around

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > the curve so fast and boom! It was not a pretty scene. Terrible.

The

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > guy with great cholesterol numbers and terrific blood pressure

no

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > longer had a blood pressure.
> > >
> > > Only 42 the people said. And he looked so young they said.
> > >
> > > Well, to make a long story short, they found his Nike sneakers

and

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > buried him in his jogging gear. A real shame. I mean, they were

real

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > expensive Nike sneakers. Anyway, that's life. One day you're

here, and

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > the next day...
> > >
> > > Mel

Mel,

Yes, the flavored teas may have less of the anti-oxidants - but for me
it's a matter of what I'll drink. Since I basically only drink green
tea this is important. Re: alcohol - for my mid-day snack I eat a can
of herring (3.25 ozs) + 3 fiber rye crispbreads then I drink 1.5 ozs
of vodka mixed with a can of V8 juice. I'm not tempted to have more -
but it's palatable. I doubt that the timing matters, it's just a
matter of having a drink on a regular basis.

"M. Schwartz" <[email hidden]> wrote in message news:<[email hidden]>...

Quoted message said:

Brad, I have not tried any of the flavored teas. I wonder if the flavored
teas have less of the antioxidant benefit.

When do you drink red wine? At dinner? How about the time frame of red wine
and your supplements?

Mel

"Brad Sheppard" <[email hidden]> wrote in message
news:[email hidden]...

Quoted message said:

Mel,

Yeah - red wine is good stuff! You really only need one drink a day
(at your weight). I drink green tea with meals and after meals - have
you tried any of the flavored green teas - yum! Re: CRP - it
certainly can't hurt - if you have sources of inflammation like gum
disease they should be dealt with. If your CRP is high you might try
some of the dietary strategies to lower it. It is true that these
strategies to lower a high CRP have not yet been proven to prevent
heart disease - but then again it's unlikely that the strategies will
do any harm. If your CRP is ok it's one less thing to worry about.
Re: Dr. Willett - his book is great - I've also looked at some of his
research - very impressive, at least to me. Dr. Willett et al. was
the inventor of "glycemic load" which is being used more and more. Dr.
Willett's group, along with others, has finally pushed the USDA to
revise its outdated food pyramid.

[email hidden] (M. Schwartz) wrote in message

news:<[email hidden]>...

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

[email hidden] (Brad Sheppard) wrote in message

news:<[email hidden]>...

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Brad, I do have lots of respect for Dr. Willett. I have learned much
from his book "Eat, Drink, And Be Healthy".

I don't have a problem paying doctors because my insurance pays the
whole thing. I just kind of like my present cardiologist. However, I
have to find out more about the red wine thing.

I kind of feel it's hard to change my present routine of water with
meals followed by green tea at lunch and dinner (after the water).

I would think there is no harm taking a CRP test and will again ask my
cardiologist at the next visit. Maybe just comparing the difference
between test results could be of some value?

Mel

> Mel,
>
> Your doc is wrong on both counts (CRP test and alcohol), but you
> really shouldn't listen to me. I know it would cost you $$$ to get a
> second opinion, and maybe you're comfortable with your current doc.
> In my opinion, the alcohol could reduce your risk by 20 - 40 percent,
> and also lower your overall mortality. re: CRP test - no harm in
> taking it - it may provide valuable info. Re: liver problems- highly
> doubtful from 1 - 2 drinks a day, and you're being monitored on a
> regualr basis because of your statin drug. Re: living to a healthy old
> age takes luck - some, but we also make our own luck. Dr. Willett
> says that our Western diet causes 60-80 percent of heart disease. If
> you're science oriented read
>

http://www.sciam.com/article.cfm?articleID=0007C5B6-7152-1DF6-9733809EC588EEDF

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

>
> [email hidden] (M. Schwartz) wrote in message

news:<[email hidden]>...

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > [email hidden] (Brad Sheppard) wrote in message

news:<[email hidden]>...

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> >
> > Brad, why do sense underlying anger or hostility?
> >
> > I haven't purchased a treadmill. I will be going to the Mall and
> > checking it out. If it feels okay, then I will do some research on
> > brands before buying. I much prefer walking outdoors but the winter
> > here is just too harsh.
> >
> > My cardiologist says the CRP test is not of any use for me.
> >
> > Red wine? Well, my cardiologist says just one or two glasses a week

or

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > risk liver problems. I don't feel comfortable taking a chance on
> > making matters worse.
> >
> > I agree we should strive to do the best we can. I think living to a
> > ripe old age in good health requires lots of luck. If your fellow

man

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > doesn't kill you, then something else will either kill a part or all
> > of you. I don't see too many healthy people over 70 jogging on the
> > road. :-)
> >
> > Ahh, maybe they're at home with some 22 year old chick. :-))
> >
> > Mel
> >
> > > Hi there Mel!
> > >
> > > Did you get your treadmill yet? I'd suggest being more

pro-active.

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > You never got at CRP test, or Hba1c, either? If you have a high
> > > degree of inflammation, that can be addressed. Moderate drinking

is

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > one way - hmmm, we talked about that before. I seem to sense
> > > underlying anger or hostility - yes? Not good for your arteries.
> > > Meditation might help. Re: my HDL - my lipid profile has improved

on

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > each of the four readings and I expect another improvement in two
> > > weeks (another test). I also have room for improvement on my

Hba1c -

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > at 5.2 it's just ok, not great. A lower Hba1c means lower

mortality.

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > Hba1c is the amount of glucose sticking to your blood cells - over

7

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > is diabetic. Re: your story - hey, we should strive to do the

best we

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > can. I'm not fatalistic. I'd like to live to a ripe old age in

good

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > health.
> > >
> > > [email hidden] (M. Schwartz) wrote in message

news:<[email hidden]>...

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > > [email hidden] (Brad Sheppard) wrote in message

news:<[email hidden]>...

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > > > My HDL vs LDL has keep improving this year to the point where

they are

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > > > now equal:
> > > > > jan hdl 51 ldl 79
> > > > > may hdl 59 ldl 71
> > > > > july hdl 68 ldl 74
> > > > > sept hdl 67 ldl 67 Ratio CHOL/HDLC 2.2
> > > > >
> > > > > Key dietary changes 1) a drink a day 2) oily fish or fish oil

capsules

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > > > every day 3) no refined grains, added sugars, or white

potatoes 4)

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > > > more servings of nuts (peanuts, walnuts) 5) (last 51 days) -

eating 7

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > > > equal calorie meals thru out the day. My CRP is also

extremely good -

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > > > .11 My blood pressure has declined as well, from 127/80 (ok-

not

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > > > great) to a stellar 105/65. I seem not to be getting older,

but

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > > > better! No - I didn't add any medication this year. If

anyone is

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > > > interested I'll post my typical days diet.
> > > >
> > > > Your HDL is dropping. This could be a dangerous trend.
> > > >
> > > > Brad, we are all getting older. Every day we get one day closer

to the

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > > grave.
> > > >
> > > > I knew a fellow who had an HDL of 77, LDL of 82, TG of 63, TC of

164

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > > and without any statin drug. He was a real fanatic about

exercise and

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > > jogged every morning for around five miles. He was mostly

vegetarian

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > > but did eat salmon. He had a blood pressure of 110/65 and was

just 42

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > > years old. Everyone marveled at his athletic and youthful

appearance.

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > > People would say this guy is going to make it to 100 years old

for

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > > sure. At 42 he looked like someone in their twenties. He bought

all

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > > his food except for salmon at the health food store. He wouldn't

touch

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > > any refined carbs or sugar or any dairy product.
> > > >
> > > > You should have seen him whizzing by so fast that not even the

dogs

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > > could catch him. His Nike sneakers were just a blur. "There he

goes"

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > > people would say, a look of amazement upon their faces.
> > > >
> > > > Then one day while he was jogging, a guy on a motorcycle came

around

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > > the curve so fast and boom! It was not a pretty scene. Terrible.

The

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > > guy with great cholesterol numbers and terrific blood pressure

no

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > > longer had a blood pressure.
> > > >
> > > > Only 42 the people said. And he looked so young they said.
> > > >
> > > > Well, to make a long story short, they found his Nike sneakers

and

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > > buried him in his jogging gear. A real shame. I mean, they were

real

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > > expensive Nike sneakers. Anyway, that's life. One day you're

here, and

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > > the next day...
> > > >
> > > > Mel

Brad, I was asking about wine. When do you drink red wine?

Mel

"Brad Sheppard" <[email hidden]> wrote in message
news:[email hidden]...

Quoted message said:

Mel,

Yes, the flavored teas may have less of the anti-oxidants - but for me
it's a matter of what I'll drink. Since I basically only drink green
tea this is important. Re: alcohol - for my mid-day snack I eat a can
of herring (3.25 ozs) + 3 fiber rye crispbreads then I drink 1.5 ozs
of vodka mixed with a can of V8 juice. I'm not tempted to have more -
but it's palatable. I doubt that the timing matters, it's just a
matter of having a drink on a regular basis.

"M. Schwartz" <[email hidden]> wrote in message

news:<[email hidden]>...

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Brad, I have not tried any of the flavored teas. I wonder if the

flavored

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

teas have less of the antioxidant benefit.

When do you drink red wine? At dinner? How about the time frame of red

wine

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

and your supplements?

Mel

"Brad Sheppard" <[email hidden]> wrote in message
news:[email hidden]...

Quoted message said:

Mel,

Yeah - red wine is good stuff! You really only need one drink a day
(at your weight). I drink green tea with meals and after meals - have
you tried any of the flavored green teas - yum! Re: CRP - it
certainly can't hurt - if you have sources of inflammation like gum
disease they should be dealt with. If your CRP is high you might try
some of the dietary strategies to lower it. It is true that these
strategies to lower a high CRP have not yet been proven to prevent
heart disease - but then again it's unlikely that the strategies will
do any harm. If your CRP is ok it's one less thing to worry about.
Re: Dr. Willett - his book is great - I've also looked at some of his
research - very impressive, at least to me. Dr. Willett et al. was
the inventor of "glycemic load" which is being used more and more. Dr.
Willett's group, along with others, has finally pushed the USDA to
revise its outdated food pyramid.

[email hidden] (M. Schwartz) wrote in message

news:<[email hidden]>...

Quoted message said:

> [email hidden] (Brad Sheppard) wrote in message

news:<[email hidden]>...

Quoted message said:

>
> Brad, I do have lots of respect for Dr. Willett. I have learned much
> from his book "Eat, Drink, And Be Healthy".
>
> I don't have a problem paying doctors because my insurance pays the
> whole thing. I just kind of like my present cardiologist. However, I
> have to find out more about the red wine thing.
>
> I kind of feel it's hard to change my present routine of water with
> meals followed by green tea at lunch and dinner (after the water).
>
> I would think there is no harm taking a CRP test and will again ask

my

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> cardiologist at the next visit. Maybe just comparing the difference
> between test results could be of some value?
>
> Mel
>
>
> > Mel,
> >
> > Your doc is wrong on both counts (CRP test and alcohol), but you
> > really shouldn't listen to me. I know it would cost you $$$ to

get a

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > second opinion, and maybe you're comfortable with your current

doc.

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > In my opinion, the alcohol could reduce your risk by 20 - 40

percent,

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > and also lower your overall mortality. re: CRP test - no harm in
> > taking it - it may provide valuable info. Re: liver problems-

highly

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > doubtful from 1 - 2 drinks a day, and you're being monitored on a
> > regualr basis because of your statin drug. Re: living to a healthy

old

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > age takes luck - some, but we also make our own luck. Dr. Willett
> > says that our Western diet causes 60-80 percent of heart disease.

If

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > you're science oriented read
> >

http://www.sciam.com/article.cfm?articleID=0007C5B6-7152-1DF6-9733809EC588EEDF

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> >
> > [email hidden] (M. Schwartz) wrote in message

news:<[email hidden]>...

Quoted message said:

> > > [email hidden] (Brad Sheppard) wrote in message

news:<[email hidden]>...

Quoted message said:

> > >
> > > Brad, why do sense underlying anger or hostility?
> > >
> > > I haven't purchased a treadmill. I will be going to the Mall and
> > > checking it out. If it feels okay, then I will do some research

on

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > brands before buying. I much prefer walking outdoors but the

winter

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > here is just too harsh.
> > >
> > > My cardiologist says the CRP test is not of any use for me.
> > >
> > > Red wine? Well, my cardiologist says just one or two glasses a

week

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

or

Quoted message said:

> > > risk liver problems. I don't feel comfortable taking a chance on
> > > making matters worse.
> > >
> > > I agree we should strive to do the best we can. I think living

to a

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > ripe old age in good health requires lots of luck. If your

fellow

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

man

Quoted message said:

> > > doesn't kill you, then something else will either kill a part or

all

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > of you. I don't see too many healthy people over 70 jogging on

the

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > road. :-)
> > >
> > > Ahh, maybe they're at home with some 22 year old chick. :-))
> > >
> > > Mel
> > >
> > > > Hi there Mel!
> > > >
> > > > Did you get your treadmill yet? I'd suggest being more

pro-active.

Quoted message said:

> > > > You never got at CRP test, or Hba1c, either? If you have a

high

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > > degree of inflammation, that can be addressed. Moderate

drinking

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

is

Quoted message said:

> > > > one way - hmmm, we talked about that before. I seem to sense
> > > > underlying anger or hostility - yes? Not good for your

arteries.

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > > Meditation might help. Re: my HDL - my lipid profile has

improved

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

on

Quoted message said:

> > > > each of the four readings and I expect another improvement in

two

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

> > > > weeks (another test). I also have room for improvement on my

Hba1c -

Quoted message said:

> > > > at 5.2 it's just ok, not great. A lower Hba1c means lower

mortality.

Quoted message said:

> > > > Hba1c is the amount of glucose sticking to your blood cells -

over

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

7

Quoted message said:

> > > > is diabetic. Re: your story - hey, we should strive to do the

best we

Quoted message said:

> > > > can. I'm not fatalistic. I'd like to live to a ripe old age

in

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

good

Quoted message said:

> > > > health.
> > > >
> > > > [email hidden] (M. Schwartz) wrote in message

news:<[email hidden]>...

Quoted message said:

> > > > > [email hidden] (Brad Sheppard) wrote in message

news:<[email hidden]>...

Quoted message said:

> > > > > > My HDL vs LDL has keep improving this year to the point

where

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

they are

Quoted message said:

> > > > > > now equal:
> > > > > > jan hdl 51 ldl 79
> > > > > > may hdl 59 ldl 71
> > > > > > july hdl 68 ldl 74
> > > > > > sept hdl 67 ldl 67 Ratio CHOL/HDLC 2.2
> > > > > >
> > > > > > Key dietary changes 1) a drink a day 2) oily fish or fish

oil

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

capsules

Quoted message said:

> > > > > > every day 3) no refined grains, added sugars, or white

potatoes 4)

Quoted message said:

> > > > > > more servings of nuts (peanuts, walnuts) 5) (last 51

days) -

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

eating 7

Quoted message said:

> > > > > > equal calorie meals thru out the day. My CRP is also

extremely good -

Quoted message said:

> > > > > > .11 My blood pressure has declined as well, from 127/80

(ok-

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

not

Quoted message said:

> > > > > > great) to a stellar 105/65. I seem not to be getting

older,

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

but

Quoted message said:

> > > > > > better! No - I didn't add any medication this year. If

anyone is

Quoted message said:

> > > > > > interested I'll post my typical days diet.
> > > > >
> > > > > Your HDL is dropping. This could be a dangerous trend.
> > > > >
> > > > > Brad, we are all getting older. Every day we get one day

closer

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

to the

Quoted message said:

> > > > > grave.
> > > > >
> > > > > I knew a fellow who had an HDL of 77, LDL of 82, TG of 63,

TC of

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

164

Quoted message said:

> > > > > and without any statin drug. He was a real fanatic about

exercise and

Quoted message said:

> > > > > jogged every morning for around five miles. He was mostly

vegetarian

Quoted message said:

> > > > > but did eat salmon. He had a blood pressure of 110/65 and

was

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

just 42

Quoted message said:

> > > > > years old. Everyone marveled at his athletic and youthful

appearance.

Quoted message said:

> > > > > People would say this guy is going to make it to 100 years

old

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

for

Quoted message said:

> > > > > sure. At 42 he looked like someone in their twenties. He

bought

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

all

Quoted message said:

> > > > > his food except for salmon at the health food store. He

wouldn't

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

touch

Quoted message said:

> > > > > any refined carbs or sugar or any dairy product.
> > > > >
> > > > > You should have seen him whizzing by so fast that not even

the

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

dogs

Quoted message said:

> > > > > could catch him. His Nike sneakers were just a blur. "There

he

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

goes"

Quoted message said:

> > > > > people would say, a look of amazement upon their faces.
> > > > >
> > > > > Then one day while he was jogging, a guy on a motorcycle

came

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

around

Quoted message said:

> > > > > the curve so fast and boom! It was not a pretty scene.

Terrible.

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

The

Quoted message said:

> > > > > guy with great cholesterol numbers and terrific blood

pressure

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

no

Quoted message said:

> > > > > longer had a blood pressure.
> > > > >
> > > > > Only 42 the people said. And he looked so young they said.
> > > > >
> > > > > Well, to make a long story short, they found his Nike

sneakers

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

and

Quoted message said:

> > > > > buried him in his jogging gear. A real shame. I mean, they

were

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

real

Quoted message said:

> > > > > expensive Nike sneakers. Anyway, that's life. One day you're

here, and

Quoted message said:

> > > > > the next day...
> > > > >
> > > > > Mel

Brad, when are you having the red wine? Herring and then vodka?

All this talk about red wine and vodka, well, I'm beginning to
wonder...

Have you tried the AA? No-no, just kidding.

Mel

On 26 Sep 2003 15:25:18 -0700, [email hidden] (Brad

Sheppard) said:

Mel,

Yes, the flavored teas may have less of the anti-oxidants - but for me
it's a matter of what I'll drink. Since I basically only drink green
tea this is important. Re: alcohol - for my mid-day snack I eat a can
of herring (3.25 ozs) + 3 fiber rye crispbreads then I drink 1.5 ozs
of vodka mixed with a can of V8 juice. I'm not tempted to have more -
but it's palatable. I doubt that the timing matters, it's just a
matter of having a drink on a regular basis.

"M. Schwartz" <[email hidden]> wrote in message news:<[email hidden]>...

Quoted message said:

Brad, I have not tried any of the flavored teas. I wonder if the flavored
teas have less of the antioxidant benefit.

When do you drink red wine? At dinner? How about the time frame of red wine
and your supplements?

Mel

"Brad Sheppard" <[email hidden]> wrote in message
news:[email hidden]...

Quoted message said:

Mel,

Yeah - red wine is good stuff! You really only need one drink a day
(at your weight). I drink green tea with meals and after meals - have
you tried any of the flavored green teas - yum! Re: CRP - it
certainly can't hurt - if you have sources of inflammation like gum
disease they should be dealt with. If your CRP is high you might try
some of the dietary strategies to lower it. It is true that these
strategies to lower a high CRP have not yet been proven to prevent
heart disease - but then again it's unlikely that the strategies will
do any harm. If your CRP is ok it's one less thing to worry about.
Re: Dr. Willett - his book is great - I've also looked at some of his
research - very impressive, at least to me. Dr. Willett et al. was
the inventor of "glycemic load" which is being used more and more. Dr.
Willett's group, along with others, has finally pushed the USDA to
revise its outdated food pyramid.

[email hidden] (M. Schwartz) wrote in message

news:<[email hidden]>...

Quoted message said:

> [email hidden] (Brad Sheppard) wrote in message

news:<[email hidden]>...

Quoted message said:

>
> Brad, I do have lots of respect for Dr. Willett. I have learned much
> from his book "Eat, Drink, And Be Healthy".
>
> I don't have a problem paying doctors because my insurance pays the
> whole thing. I just kind of like my present cardiologist. However, I
> have to find out more about the red wine thing.
>
> I kind of feel it's hard to change my present routine of water with
> meals followed by green tea at lunch and dinner (after the water).
>
> I would think there is no harm taking a CRP test and will again ask my
> cardiologist at the next visit. Maybe just comparing the difference
> between test results could be of some value?
>
> Mel
>
>
> > Mel,
> >
> > Your doc is wrong on both counts (CRP test and alcohol), but you
> > really shouldn't listen to me. I know it would cost you $$$ to get a
> > second opinion, and maybe you're comfortable with your current doc.
> > In my opinion, the alcohol could reduce your risk by 20 - 40 percent,
> > and also lower your overall mortality. re: CRP test - no harm in
> > taking it - it may provide valuable info. Re: liver problems- highly
> > doubtful from 1 - 2 drinks a day, and you're being monitored on a
> > regualr basis because of your statin drug. Re: living to a healthy old
> > age takes luck - some, but we also make our own luck. Dr. Willett
> > says that our Western diet causes 60-80 percent of heart disease. If
> > you're science oriented read
> >

http://www.sciam.com/article.cfm?articleID=0007C5B6-7152-1DF6-9733809EC588EEDF

Quoted message said:

> >
> > [email hidden] (M. Schwartz) wrote in message

news:<[email hidden]>...

Quoted message said:

> > > [email hidden] (Brad Sheppard) wrote in message

news:<[email hidden]>...

Quoted message said:

> > >
> > > Brad, why do sense underlying anger or hostility?
> > >
> > > I haven't purchased a treadmill. I will be going to the Mall and
> > > checking it out. If it feels okay, then I will do some research on
> > > brands before buying. I much prefer walking outdoors but the winter
> > > here is just too harsh.
> > >
> > > My cardiologist says the CRP test is not of any use for me.
> > >
> > > Red wine? Well, my cardiologist says just one or two glasses a week

or

Quoted message said:

> > > risk liver problems. I don't feel comfortable taking a chance on
> > > making matters worse.
> > >
> > > I agree we should strive to do the best we can. I think living to a
> > > ripe old age in good health requires lots of luck. If your fellow

man

Quoted message said:

> > > doesn't kill you, then something else will either kill a part or all
> > > of you. I don't see too many healthy people over 70 jogging on the
> > > road. :-)
> > >
> > > Ahh, maybe they're at home with some 22 year old chick. :-))
> > >
> > > Mel
> > >
> > > > Hi there Mel!
> > > >
> > > > Did you get your treadmill yet? I'd suggest being more

pro-active.

Quoted message said:

> > > > You never got at CRP test, or Hba1c, either? If you have a high
> > > > degree of inflammation, that can be addressed. Moderate drinking

is

Quoted message said:

> > > > one way - hmmm, we talked about that before. I seem to sense
> > > > underlying anger or hostility - yes? Not good for your arteries.
> > > > Meditation might help. Re: my HDL - my lipid profile has improved

on

Quoted message said:

> > > > each of the four readings and I expect another improvement in two
> > > > weeks (another test). I also have room for improvement on my

Hba1c -

Quoted message said:

> > > > at 5.2 it's just ok, not great. A lower Hba1c means lower

mortality.

Quoted message said:

> > > > Hba1c is the amount of glucose sticking to your blood cells - over

7

Quoted message said:

> > > > is diabetic. Re: your story - hey, we should strive to do the

best we

Quoted message said:

> > > > can. I'm not fatalistic. I'd like to live to a ripe old age in

good

Quoted message said:

> > > > health.
> > > >
> > > > [email hidden] (M. Schwartz) wrote in message

news:<[email hidden]>...

Quoted message said:

> > > > > [email hidden] (Brad Sheppard) wrote in message

news:<[email hidden]>...

Quoted message said:

> > > > > > My HDL vs LDL has keep improving this year to the point where

they are

Quoted message said:

> > > > > > now equal:
> > > > > > jan hdl 51 ldl 79
> > > > > > may hdl 59 ldl 71
> > > > > > july hdl 68 ldl 74
> > > > > > sept hdl 67 ldl 67 Ratio CHOL/HDLC 2.2
> > > > > >
> > > > > > Key dietary changes 1) a drink a day 2) oily fish or fish oil

capsules

Quoted message said:

> > > > > > every day 3) no refined grains, added sugars, or white

potatoes 4)

Quoted message said:

> > > > > > more servings of nuts (peanuts, walnuts) 5) (last 51 days) -

eating 7

Quoted message said:

> > > > > > equal calorie meals thru out the day. My CRP is also

extremely good -

Quoted message said:

> > > > > > .11 My blood pressure has declined as well, from 127/80 (ok-

not

Quoted message said:

> > > > > > great) to a stellar 105/65. I seem not to be getting older,

but

Quoted message said:

> > > > > > better! No - I didn't add any medication this year. If

anyone is

Quoted message said:

> > > > > > interested I'll post my typical days diet.
> > > > >
> > > > > Your HDL is dropping. This could be a dangerous trend.
> > > > >
> > > > > Brad, we are all getting older. Every day we get one day closer

to the

Quoted message said:

> > > > > grave.
> > > > >
> > > > > I knew a fellow who had an HDL of 77, LDL of 82, TG of 63, TC of

164

Quoted message said:

> > > > > and without any statin drug. He was a real fanatic about

exercise and

Quoted message said:

> > > > > jogged every morning for around five miles. He was mostly

vegetarian

Quoted message said:

> > > > > but did eat salmon. He had a blood pressure of 110/65 and was

just 42

Quoted message said:

> > > > > years old. Everyone marveled at his athletic and youthful

appearance.

Quoted message said:

> > > > > People would say this guy is going to make it to 100 years old

for

Quoted message said:

> > > > > sure. At 42 he looked like someone in their twenties. He bought

all

Quoted message said:

> > > > > his food except for salmon at the health food store. He wouldn't

touch

Quoted message said:

> > > > > any refined carbs or sugar or any dairy product.
> > > > >
> > > > > You should have seen him whizzing by so fast that not even the

dogs

Quoted message said:

> > > > > could catch him. His Nike sneakers were just a blur. "There he

goes"

Quoted message said:

> > > > > people would say, a look of amazement upon their faces.
> > > > >
> > > > > Then one day while he was jogging, a guy on a motorcycle came

around

Quoted message said:

> > > > > the curve so fast and boom! It was not a pretty scene. Terrible.

The

Quoted message said:

> > > > > guy with great cholesterol numbers and terrific blood pressure

no

Quoted message said:

> > > > > longer had a blood pressure.
> > > > >
> > > > > Only 42 the people said. And he looked so young they said.
> > > > >
> > > > > Well, to make a long story short, they found his Nike sneakers

and

Quoted message said:

> > > > > buried him in his jogging gear. A real shame. I mean, they were

real

Quoted message said:

> > > > > expensive Nike sneakers. Anyway, that's life. One day you're

here, and

Quoted message said:

> > > > > the next day...
> > > > >
> > > > > Mel

On 25 Sep 2003 16:25:47 -0700, Brad Sheppard wrote:

Brad, are you following Dr. Willett's pyramid?

Mel

Quoted message said:

Mel,

Yeah - red wine is good stuff! You really only need one drink a day
(at your weight). I drink green tea with meals and after meals - have
you tried any of the flavored green teas - yum! Re: CRP - it
certainly can't hurt - if you have sources of inflammation like gum
disease they should be dealt with. If your CRP is high you might try
some of the dietary strategies to lower it. It is true that these
strategies to lower a high CRP have not yet been proven to prevent
heart disease - but then again it's unlikely that the strategies will
do any harm. If your CRP is ok it's one less thing to worry about.
Re: Dr. Willett - his book is great - I've also looked at some of his
research - very impressive, at least to me. Dr. Willett et al. was
the inventor of "glycemic load" which is being used more and more. Dr.
Willett's group, along with others, has finally pushed the USDA to
revise its outdated food pyramid.

[email hidden] (M. Schwartz) wrote in message news:<[email hidden]>...

Quoted message said:

[email hidden] (Brad Sheppard) wrote in message news:<[email hidden]>...

Brad, I do have lots of respect for Dr. Willett. I have learned much
from his book "Eat, Drink, And Be Healthy".

I don't have a problem paying doctors because my insurance pays the
whole thing. I just kind of like my present cardiologist. However, I
have to find out more about the red wine thing.

I kind of feel it's hard to change my present routine of water with
meals followed by green tea at lunch and dinner (after the water).

I would think there is no harm taking a CRP test and will again ask my
cardiologist at the next visit. Maybe just comparing the difference
between test results could be of some value?

Mel

Quoted message said:

Mel,

Your doc is wrong on both counts (CRP test and alcohol), but you
really shouldn't listen to me. I know it would cost you $$$ to get a
second opinion, and maybe you're comfortable with your current doc.
In my opinion, the alcohol could reduce your risk by 20 - 40 percent,
and also lower your overall mortality. re: CRP test - no harm in
taking it - it may provide valuable info. Re: liver problems- highly
doubtful from 1 - 2 drinks a day, and you're being monitored on a
regualr basis because of your statin drug. Re: living to a healthy old
age takes luck - some, but we also make our own luck. Dr. Willett
says that our Western diet causes 60-80 percent of heart disease. If
you're science oriented read
http://www.sciam.com/article.cfm?articleID=0007C5B6-7152-1DF6-9733809EC588EEDF

[email hidden] (M. Schwartz) wrote in message news:<[email hidden]>...
> [email hidden] (Brad Sheppard) wrote in message news:<[email hidden]>...
>
> Brad, why do sense underlying anger or hostility?
>
> I haven't purchased a treadmill. I will be going to the Mall and
> checking it out. If it feels okay, then I will do some research on
> brands before buying. I much prefer walking outdoors but the winter
> here is just too harsh.
>
> My cardiologist says the CRP test is not of any use for me.
>
> Red wine? Well, my cardiologist says just one or two glasses a week or
> risk liver problems. I don't feel comfortable taking a chance on
> making matters worse.
>
> I agree we should strive to do the best we can. I think living to a
> ripe old age in good health requires lots of luck. If your fellow man
> doesn't kill you, then something else will either kill a part or all
> of you. I don't see too many healthy people over 70 jogging on the
> road. :-)
>
> Ahh, maybe they're at home with some 22 year old chick. :-))
>
> Mel
>
> > Hi there Mel!
> >
> > Did you get your treadmill yet? I'd suggest being more pro-active.
> > You never got at CRP test, or Hba1c, either? If you have a high
> > degree of inflammation, that can be addressed. Moderate drinking is
> > one way - hmmm, we talked about that before. I seem to sense
> > underlying anger or hostility - yes? Not good for your arteries.
> > Meditation might help. Re: my HDL - my lipid profile has improved on
> > each of the four readings and I expect another improvement in two
> > weeks (another test). I also have room for improvement on my Hba1c -
> > at 5.2 it's just ok, not great. A lower Hba1c means lower mortality.
> > Hba1c is the amount of glucose sticking to your blood cells - over 7
> > is diabetic. Re: your story - hey, we should strive to do the best we
> > can. I'm not fatalistic. I'd like to live to a ripe old age in good
> > health.
> >
> > [email hidden] (M. Schwartz) wrote in message news:<[email hidden]>...
> > > [email hidden] (Brad Sheppard) wrote in message news:<[email hidden]>...
> > > > My HDL vs LDL has keep improving this year to the point where they are
> > > > now equal:
> > > > jan hdl 51 ldl 79
> > > > may hdl 59 ldl 71
> > > > july hdl 68 ldl 74
> > > > sept hdl 67 ldl 67 Ratio CHOL/HDLC 2.2
> > > >
> > > > Key dietary changes 1) a drink a day 2) oily fish or fish oil capsules
> > > > every day 3) no refined grains, added sugars, or white potatoes 4)
> > > > more servings of nuts (peanuts, walnuts) 5) (last 51 days) - eating 7
> > > > equal calorie meals thru out the day. My CRP is also extremely good -
> > > > .11 My blood pressure has declined as well, from 127/80 (ok- not
> > > > great) to a stellar 105/65. I seem not to be getting older, but
> > > > better! No - I didn't add any medication this year. If anyone is
> > > > interested I'll post my typical days diet.
> > >
> > > Your HDL is dropping. This could be a dangerous trend.
> > >
> > > Brad, we are all getting older. Every day we get one day closer to the
> > > grave.
> > >
> > > I knew a fellow who had an HDL of 77, LDL of 82, TG of 63, TC of 164
> > > and without any statin drug. He was a real fanatic about exercise and
> > > jogged every morning for around five miles. He was mostly vegetarian
> > > but did eat salmon. He had a blood pressure of 110/65 and was just 42
> > > years old. Everyone marveled at his athletic and youthful appearance.
> > > People would say this guy is going to make it to 100 years old for
> > > sure. At 42 he looked like someone in their twenties. He bought all
> > > his food except for salmon at the health food store. He wouldn't touch
> > > any refined carbs or sugar or any dairy product.
> > >
> > > You should have seen him whizzing by so fast that not even the dogs
> > > could catch him. His Nike sneakers were just a blur. "There he goes"
> > > people would say, a look of amazement upon their faces.
> > >
> > > Then one day while he was jogging, a guy on a motorcycle came around
> > > the curve so fast and boom! It was not a pretty scene. Terrible. The
> > > guy with great cholesterol numbers and terrific blood pressure no
> > > longer had a blood pressure.
> > >
> > > Only 42 the people said. And he looked so young they said.
> > >
> > > Well, to make a long story short, they found his Nike sneakers and
> > > buried him in his jogging gear. A real shame. I mean, they were real
> > > expensive Nike sneakers. Anyway, that's life. One day you're here, and
> > > the next day...
> > >
> > > Mel

Hi Mel,

Re: wine - My drink is V8 + vodka - I don't drink wine (I'm a
cheapskate). Yes, I follow Willett's pyramid. Here's the latest
scoop from Willett ( video on demand)
http://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutrition/foodpyramid/ I confess I
haven't yet listened to it. Also check press release about alcohol
from Harvard: http://www.hsph.harvard.edu/press/releases/press01082003.html

"M. Schwartz" <[email hidden]> wrote in message news:<[email hidden]>...

Quoted message said:

On 25 Sep 2003 16:25:47 -0700, Brad Sheppard wrote:

Brad, are you following Dr. Willett's pyramid?

Mel

Quoted message said:

Mel,

Yeah - red wine is good stuff! You really only need one drink a day
(at your weight). I drink green tea with meals and after meals - have
you tried any of the flavored green teas - yum! Re: CRP - it
certainly can't hurt - if you have sources of inflammation like gum
disease they should be dealt with. If your CRP is high you might try
some of the dietary strategies to lower it. It is true that these
strategies to lower a high CRP have not yet been proven to prevent
heart disease - but then again it's unlikely that the strategies will
do any harm. If your CRP is ok it's one less thing to worry about.
Re: Dr. Willett - his book is great - I've also looked at some of his
research - very impressive, at least to me. Dr. Willett et al. was
the inventor of "glycemic load" which is being used more and more. Dr.
Willett's group, along with others, has finally pushed the USDA to
revise its outdated food pyramid.

[email hidden] (M. Schwartz) wrote in message news:<[email hidden]>...

Quoted message said:

[email hidden] (Brad Sheppard) wrote in message news:<[email hidden]>...

Brad, I do have lots of respect for Dr. Willett. I have learned much
from his book "Eat, Drink, And Be Healthy".

I don't have a problem paying doctors because my insurance pays the
whole thing. I just kind of like my present cardiologist. However, I
have to find out more about the red wine thing.

I kind of feel it's hard to change my present routine of water with
meals followed by green tea at lunch and dinner (after the water).

I would think there is no harm taking a CRP test and will again ask my
cardiologist at the next visit. Maybe just comparing the difference
between test results could be of some value?

Mel

> Mel,
>
> Your doc is wrong on both counts (CRP test and alcohol), but you
> really shouldn't listen to me. I know it would cost you $$$ to get a
> second opinion, and maybe you're comfortable with your current doc.
> In my opinion, the alcohol could reduce your risk by 20 - 40 percent,
> and also lower your overall mortality. re: CRP test - no harm in
> taking it - it may provide valuable info. Re: liver problems- highly
> doubtful from 1 - 2 drinks a day, and you're being monitored on a
> regualr basis because of your statin drug. Re: living to a healthy old
> age takes luck - some, but we also make our own luck. Dr. Willett
> says that our Western diet causes 60-80 percent of heart disease. If
> you're science oriented read
> http://www.sciam.com/article.cfm?articleID=0007C5B6-7152-1DF6-9733809EC588EEDF
>
> [email hidden] (M. Schwartz) wrote in message news:<[email hidden]>...
> > [email hidden] (Brad Sheppard) wrote in message news:<[email hidden]>...
> >
> > Brad, why do sense underlying anger or hostility?
> >
> > I haven't purchased a treadmill. I will be going to the Mall and
> > checking it out. If it feels okay, then I will do some research on
> > brands before buying. I much prefer walking outdoors but the winter
> > here is just too harsh.
> >
> > My cardiologist says the CRP test is not of any use for me.
> >
> > Red wine? Well, my cardiologist says just one or two glasses a week or
> > risk liver problems. I don't feel comfortable taking a chance on
> > making matters worse.
> >
> > I agree we should strive to do the best we can. I think living to a
> > ripe old age in good health requires lots of luck. If your fellow man
> > doesn't kill you, then something else will either kill a part or all
> > of you. I don't see too many healthy people over 70 jogging on the
> > road. :-)
> >
> > Ahh, maybe they're at home with some 22 year old chick. :-))
> >
> > Mel
> >
> > > Hi there Mel!
> > >
> > > Did you get your treadmill yet? I'd suggest being more pro-active.
> > > You never got at CRP test, or Hba1c, either? If you have a high
> > > degree of inflammation, that can be addressed. Moderate drinking is
> > > one way - hmmm, we talked about that before. I seem to sense
> > > underlying anger or hostility - yes? Not good for your arteries.
> > > Meditation might help. Re: my HDL - my lipid profile has improved on
> > > each of the four readings and I expect another improvement in two
> > > weeks (another test). I also have room for improvement on my Hba1c -
> > > at 5.2 it's just ok, not great. A lower Hba1c means lower mortality.
> > > Hba1c is the amount of glucose sticking to your blood cells - over 7
> > > is diabetic. Re: your story - hey, we should strive to do the best we
> > > can. I'm not fatalistic. I'd like to live to a ripe old age in good
> > > health.
> > >
> > > [email hidden] (M. Schwartz) wrote in message news:<[email hidden]>...
> > > > [email hidden] (Brad Sheppard) wrote in message news:<[email hidden]>...
> > > > > My HDL vs LDL has keep improving this year to the point where they are
> > > > > now equal:
> > > > > jan hdl 51 ldl 79
> > > > > may hdl 59 ldl 71
> > > > > july hdl 68 ldl 74
> > > > > sept hdl 67 ldl 67 Ratio CHOL/HDLC 2.2
> > > > >
> > > > > Key dietary changes 1) a drink a day 2) oily fish or fish oil capsules
> > > > > every day 3) no refined grains, added sugars, or white potatoes 4)
> > > > > more servings of nuts (peanuts, walnuts) 5) (last 51 days) - eating 7
> > > > > equal calorie meals thru out the day. My CRP is also extremely good -
> > > > > .11 My blood pressure has declined as well, from 127/80 (ok- not
> > > > > great) to a stellar 105/65. I seem not to be getting older, but
> > > > > better! No - I didn't add any medication this year. If anyone is
> > > > > interested I'll post my typical days diet.
> > > >
> > > > Your HDL is dropping. This could be a dangerous trend.
> > > >
> > > > Brad, we are all getting older. Every day we get one day closer to the
> > > > grave.
> > > >
> > > > I knew a fellow who had an HDL of 77, LDL of 82, TG of 63, TC of 164
> > > > and without any statin drug. He was a real fanatic about exercise and
> > > > jogged every morning for around five miles. He was mostly vegetarian
> > > > but did eat salmon. He had a blood pressure of 110/65 and was just 42
> > > > years old. Everyone marveled at his athletic and youthful appearance.
> > > > People would say this guy is going to make it to 100 years old for
> > > > sure. At 42 he looked like someone in their twenties. He bought all
> > > > his food except for salmon at the health food store. He wouldn't touch
> > > > any refined carbs or sugar or any dairy product.
> > > >
> > > > You should have seen him whizzing by so fast that not even the dogs
> > > > could catch him. His Nike sneakers were just a blur. "There he goes"
> > > > people would say, a look of amazement upon their faces.
> > > >
> > > > Then one day while he was jogging, a guy on a motorcycle came around
> > > > the curve so fast and boom! It was not a pretty scene. Terrible. The
> > > > guy with great cholesterol numbers and terrific blood pressure no
> > > > longer had a blood pressure.
> > > >
> > > > Only 42 the people said. And he looked so young they said.
> > > >
> > > > Well, to make a long story short, they found his Nike sneakers and
> > > > buried him in his jogging gear. A real shame. I mean, they were real
> > > > expensive Nike sneakers. Anyway, that's life. One day you're here, and
> > > > the next day...
> > > >
> > > > Mel

On 29 Sep 2003 07:42:37 -0700, Brad Sheppard wrote:

Brad, wait a minute. Aren't you the guy who's been telling me to drink red
wine? And you don't drink the stuff? Something fishy here and it's not the
herring. :-)

I'll check those links later. Thanks!

Mel

Quoted message said:

Hi Mel,

Re: wine - My drink is V8 + vodka - I don't drink wine (I'm a
cheapskate). Yes, I follow Willett's pyramid. Here's the latest
scoop from Willett ( video on demand)
http://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutrition/foodpyramid/ I confess I
haven't yet listened to it. Also check press release about alcohol
from Harvard: http://www.hsph.harvard.edu/press/releases/press01082003.html

"M. Schwartz" <[email hidden]> wrote in message news:<[email hidden]>...

Quoted message said:

On 25 Sep 2003 16:25:47 -0700, Brad Sheppard wrote:

Brad, are you following Dr. Willett's pyramid?

Mel

Quoted message said:

Mel,

Yeah - red wine is good stuff! You really only need one drink a day
(at your weight). I drink green tea with meals and after meals - have
you tried any of the flavored green teas - yum! Re: CRP - it
certainly can't hurt - if you have sources of inflammation like gum
disease they should be dealt with. If your CRP is high you might try
some of the dietary strategies to lower it. It is true that these
strategies to lower a high CRP have not yet been proven to prevent
heart disease - but then again it's unlikely that the strategies will
do any harm. If your CRP is ok it's one less thing to worry about.
Re: Dr. Willett - his book is great - I've also looked at some of his
research - very impressive, at least to me. Dr. Willett et al. was
the inventor of "glycemic load" which is being used more and more. Dr.
Willett's group, along with others, has finally pushed the USDA to
revise its outdated food pyramid.

[email hidden] (M. Schwartz) wrote in message news:<[email hidden]>...
> [email hidden] (Brad Sheppard) wrote in message news:<[email hidden]>...
>
> Brad, I do have lots of respect for Dr. Willett. I have learned much
> from his book "Eat, Drink, And Be Healthy".
>
> I don't have a problem paying doctors because my insurance pays the
> whole thing. I just kind of like my present cardiologist. However, I
> have to find out more about the red wine thing.
>
> I kind of feel it's hard to change my present routine of water with
> meals followed by green tea at lunch and dinner (after the water).
>
> I would think there is no harm taking a CRP test and will again ask my
> cardiologist at the next visit. Maybe just comparing the difference
> between test results could be of some value?
>
> Mel
>
>
>> Mel,
>>
>> Your doc is wrong on both counts (CRP test and alcohol), but you
>> really shouldn't listen to me. I know it would cost you $$$ to get a
>> second opinion, and maybe you're comfortable with your current doc.
>> In my opinion, the alcohol could reduce your risk by 20 - 40 percent,
>> and also lower your overall mortality. re: CRP test - no harm in
>> taking it - it may provide valuable info. Re: liver problems- highly
>> doubtful from 1 - 2 drinks a day, and you're being monitored on a
>> regualr basis because of your statin drug. Re: living to a healthy old
>> age takes luck - some, but we also make our own luck. Dr. Willett
>> says that our Western diet causes 60-80 percent of heart disease. If
>> you're science oriented read
>> http://www.sciam.com/article.cfm?articleID=0007C5B6-7152-1DF6-9733809EC588EEDF
>>
>> [email hidden] (M. Schwartz) wrote in message news:<[email hidden]>...
>> > [email hidden] (Brad Sheppard) wrote in message news:<[email hidden]>...
>> >
>> > Brad, why do sense underlying anger or hostility?
>> >
>> > I haven't purchased a treadmill. I will be going to the Mall and
>> > checking it out. If it feels okay, then I will do some research on
>> > brands before buying. I much prefer walking outdoors but the winter
>> > here is just too harsh.
>> >
>> > My cardiologist says the CRP test is not of any use for me.
>> >
>> > Red wine? Well, my cardiologist says just one or two glasses a week or
>> > risk liver problems. I don't feel comfortable taking a chance on
>> > making matters worse.
>> >
>> > I agree we should strive to do the best we can. I think living to a
>> > ripe old age in good health requires lots of luck. If your fellow man
>> > doesn't kill you, then something else will either kill a part or all
>> > of you. I don't see too many healthy people over 70 jogging on the
>> > road. :-)
>> >
>> > Ahh, maybe they're at home with some 22 year old chick. :-))
>> >
>> > Mel
>> >
>> > > Hi there Mel!
>> > >
>> > > Did you get your treadmill yet? I'd suggest being more pro-active.
>> > > You never got at CRP test, or Hba1c, either? If you have a high
>> > > degree of inflammation, that can be addressed. Moderate drinking is
>> > > one way - hmmm, we talked about that before. I seem to sense
>> > > underlying anger or hostility - yes? Not good for your arteries.
>> > > Meditation might help. Re: my HDL - my lipid profile has improved on
>> > > each of the four readings and I expect another improvement in two
>> > > weeks (another test). I also have room for improvement on my Hba1c -
>> > > at 5.2 it's just ok, not great. A lower Hba1c means lower mortality.
>> > > Hba1c is the amount of glucose sticking to your blood cells - over 7
>> > > is diabetic. Re: your story - hey, we should strive to do the best we
>> > > can. I'm not fatalistic. I'd like to live to a ripe old age in good
>> > > health.
>> > >
>> > > [email hidden] (M. Schwartz) wrote in message news:<[email hidden]>...
>> > > > [email hidden] (Brad Sheppard) wrote in message news:<[email hidden]>...
>> > > > > My HDL vs LDL has keep improving this year to the point where they are
>> > > > > now equal:
>> > > > > jan hdl 51 ldl 79
>> > > > > may hdl 59 ldl 71
>> > > > > july hdl 68 ldl 74
>> > > > > sept hdl 67 ldl 67 Ratio CHOL/HDLC 2.2
>> > > > >
>> > > > > Key dietary changes 1) a drink a day 2) oily fish or fish oil capsules
>> > > > > every day 3) no refined grains, added sugars, or white potatoes 4)
>> > > > > more servings of nuts (peanuts, walnuts) 5) (last 51 days) - eating 7
>> > > > > equal calorie meals thru out the day. My CRP is also extremely good -
>> > > > > .11 My blood pressure has declined as well, from 127/80 (ok- not
>> > > > > great) to a stellar 105/65. I seem not to be getting older, but
>> > > > > better! No - I didn't add any medication this year. If anyone is
>> > > > > interested I'll post my typical days diet.
>> > > >
>> > > > Your HDL is dropping. This could be a dangerous trend.
>> > > >
>> > > > Brad, we are all getting older. Every day we get one day closer to the
>> > > > grave.
>> > > >
>> > > > I knew a fellow who had an HDL of 77, LDL of 82, TG of 63, TC of 164
>> > > > and without any statin drug. He was a real fanatic about exercise and
>> > > > jogged every morning for around five miles. He was mostly vegetarian
>> > > > but did eat salmon. He had a blood pressure of 110/65 and was just 42
>> > > > years old. Everyone marveled at his athletic and youthful appearance.
>> > > > People would say this guy is going to make it to 100 years old for
>> > > > sure. At 42 he looked like someone in their twenties. He bought all
>> > > > his food except for salmon at the health food store. He wouldn't touch
>> > > > any refined carbs or sugar or any dairy product.
>> > > >
>> > > > You should have seen him whizzing by so fast that not even the dogs
>> > > > could catch him. His Nike sneakers were just a blur. "There he goes"
>> > > > people would say, a look of amazement upon their faces.
>> > > >
>> > > > Then one day while he was jogging, a guy on a motorcycle came around
>> > > > the curve so fast and boom! It was not a pretty scene. Terrible. The
>> > > > guy with great cholesterol numbers and terrific blood pressure no
>> > > > longer had a blood pressure.
>> > > >
>> > > > Only 42 the people said. And he looked so young they said.
>> > > >
>> > > > Well, to make a long story short, they found his Nike sneakers and
>> > > > buried him in his jogging gear. A real shame. I mean, they were real
>> > > > expensive Nike sneakers. Anyway, that's life. One day you're here, and
>> > > > the next day...
>> > > >
>> > > > Mel

Mel,

Do as I say, not as I do <grin>. I'm increasing my alcohol to 2.5 oz
from 1.5, after reading the alcohol link I sent you. Yesterday I
discovered a new food - almond butter (at Trader Joe's). Mixed with
lite banana yogurt, it's pretty good. How goes the treadmill purchase?
Weather got cold here, I'll bet it's freezing in the Poconos.

"M. Schwartz" <[email hidden]> wrote in message news:<[email hidden]>...

Quoted message said:

On 29 Sep 2003 07:42:37 -0700, Brad Sheppard wrote:

Brad, wait a minute. Aren't you the guy who's been telling me to drink red
wine? And you don't drink the stuff? Something fishy here and it's not the
herring. :-)

I'll check those links later. Thanks!

Mel

Quoted message said:

Hi Mel,

Re: wine - My drink is V8 + vodka - I don't drink wine (I'm a
cheapskate). Yes, I follow Willett's pyramid. Here's the latest
scoop from Willett ( video on demand)
http://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutrition/foodpyramid/ I confess I
haven't yet listened to it. Also check press release about alcohol
from Harvard: http://www.hsph.harvard.edu/press/releases/press01082003.html

"M. Schwartz" <[email hidden]> wrote in message news:<[email hidden]>...

Quoted message said:

On 25 Sep 2003 16:25:47 -0700, Brad Sheppard wrote:

Brad, are you following Dr. Willett's pyramid?

Mel

> Mel,
>
> Yeah - red wine is good stuff! You really only need one drink a day
> (at your weight). I drink green tea with meals and after meals - have
> you tried any of the flavored green teas - yum! Re: CRP - it
> certainly can't hurt - if you have sources of inflammation like gum
> disease they should be dealt with. If your CRP is high you might try
> some of the dietary strategies to lower it. It is true that these
> strategies to lower a high CRP have not yet been proven to prevent
> heart disease - but then again it's unlikely that the strategies will
> do any harm. If your CRP is ok it's one less thing to worry about.
> Re: Dr. Willett - his book is great - I've also looked at some of his
> research - very impressive, at least to me. Dr. Willett et al. was
> the inventor of "glycemic load" which is being used more and more. Dr.
> Willett's group, along with others, has finally pushed the USDA to
> revise its outdated food pyramid.
>
> [email hidden] (M. Schwartz) wrote in message news:<[email hidden]>...
>> [email hidden] (Brad Sheppard) wrote in message news:<[email hidden]>...
>>
>> Brad, I do have lots of respect for Dr. Willett. I have learned much
>> from his book "Eat, Drink, And Be Healthy".
>>
>> I don't have a problem paying doctors because my insurance pays the
>> whole thing. I just kind of like my present cardiologist. However, I
>> have to find out more about the red wine thing.
>>
>> I kind of feel it's hard to change my present routine of water with
>> meals followed by green tea at lunch and dinner (after the water).
>>
>> I would think there is no harm taking a CRP test and will again ask my
>> cardiologist at the next visit. Maybe just comparing the difference
>> between test results could be of some value?
>>
>> Mel
>>
>>
>>> Mel,
>>>
>>> Your doc is wrong on both counts (CRP test and alcohol), but you
>>> really shouldn't listen to me. I know it would cost you $$$ to get a
>>> second opinion, and maybe you're comfortable with your current doc.
>>> In my opinion, the alcohol could reduce your risk by 20 - 40 percent,
>>> and also lower your overall mortality. re: CRP test - no harm in
>>> taking it - it may provide valuable info. Re: liver problems- highly
>>> doubtful from 1 - 2 drinks a day, and you're being monitored on a
>>> regualr basis because of your statin drug. Re: living to a healthy old
>>> age takes luck - some, but we also make our own luck. Dr. Willett
>>> says that our Western diet causes 60-80 percent of heart disease. If
>>> you're science oriented read
>>> http://www.sciam.com/article.cfm?articleID=0007C5B6-7152-1DF6-9733809EC588EEDF
>>>
>>> [email hidden] (M. Schwartz) wrote in message news:<[email hidden]>...
>>> > [email hidden] (Brad Sheppard) wrote in message news:<[email hidden]>...
>>> >
>>> > Brad, why do sense underlying anger or hostility?
>>> >
>>> > I haven't purchased a treadmill. I will be going to the Mall and
>>> > checking it out. If it feels okay, then I will do some research on
>>> > brands before buying. I much prefer walking outdoors but the winter
>>> > here is just too harsh.
>>> >
>>> > My cardiologist says the CRP test is not of any use for me.
>>> >
>>> > Red wine? Well, my cardiologist says just one or two glasses a week or
>>> > risk liver problems. I don't feel comfortable taking a chance on
>>> > making matters worse.
>>> >
>>> > I agree we should strive to do the best we can. I think living to a
>>> > ripe old age in good health requires lots of luck. If your fellow man
>>> > doesn't kill you, then something else will either kill a part or all
>>> > of you. I don't see too many healthy people over 70 jogging on the
>>> > road. :-)
>>> >
>>> > Ahh, maybe they're at home with some 22 year old chick. :-))
>>> >
>>> > Mel
>>> >
>>> > > Hi there Mel!
>>> > >
>>> > > Did you get your treadmill yet? I'd suggest being more pro-active.
>>> > > You never got at CRP test, or Hba1c, either? If you have a high
>>> > > degree of inflammation, that can be addressed. Moderate drinking is
>>> > > one way - hmmm, we talked about that before. I seem to sense
>>> > > underlying anger or hostility - yes? Not good for your arteries.
>>> > > Meditation might help. Re: my HDL - my lipid profile has improved on
>>> > > each of the four readings and I expect another improvement in two
>>> > > weeks (another test). I also have room for improvement on my Hba1c -
>>> > > at 5.2 it's just ok, not great. A lower Hba1c means lower mortality.
>>> > > Hba1c is the amount of glucose sticking to your blood cells - over 7
>>> > > is diabetic. Re: your story - hey, we should strive to do the best we
>>> > > can. I'm not fatalistic. I'd like to live to a ripe old age in good
>>> > > health.
>>> > >
>>> > > [email hidden] (M. Schwartz) wrote in message news:<[email hidden]>...
>>> > > > [email hidden] (Brad Sheppard) wrote in message news:<[email hidden]>...
>>> > > > > My HDL vs LDL has keep improving this year to the point where they are
>>> > > > > now equal:
>>> > > > > jan hdl 51 ldl 79
>>> > > > > may hdl 59 ldl 71
>>> > > > > july hdl 68 ldl 74
>>> > > > > sept hdl 67 ldl 67 Ratio CHOL/HDLC 2.2
>>> > > > >
>>> > > > > Key dietary changes 1) a drink a day 2) oily fish or fish oil capsules
>>> > > > > every day 3) no refined grains, added sugars, or white potatoes 4)
>>> > > > > more servings of nuts (peanuts, walnuts) 5) (last 51 days) - eating 7
>>> > > > > equal calorie meals thru out the day. My CRP is also extremely good -
>>> > > > > .11 My blood pressure has declined as well, from 127/80 (ok- not
>>> > > > > great) to a stellar 105/65. I seem not to be getting older, but
>>> > > > > better! No - I didn't add any medication this year. If anyone is
>>> > > > > interested I'll post my typical days diet.
>>> > > >
>>> > > > Your HDL is dropping. This could be a dangerous trend.
>>> > > >
>>> > > > Brad, we are all getting older. Every day we get one day closer to the
>>> > > > grave.
>>> > > >
>>> > > > I knew a fellow who had an HDL of 77, LDL of 82, TG of 63, TC of 164
>>> > > > and without any statin drug. He was a real fanatic about exercise and
>>> > > > jogged every morning for around five miles. He was mostly vegetarian
>>> > > > but did eat salmon. He had a blood pressure of 110/65 and was just 42
>>> > > > years old. Everyone marveled at his athletic and youthful appearance.
>>> > > > People would say this guy is going to make it to 100 years old for
>>> > > > sure. At 42 he looked like someone in their twenties. He bought all
>>> > > > his food except for salmon at the health food store. He wouldn't touch
>>> > > > any refined carbs or sugar or any dairy product.
>>> > > >
>>> > > > You should have seen him whizzing by so fast that not even the dogs
>>> > > > could catch him. His Nike sneakers were just a blur. "There he goes"
>>> > > > people would say, a look of amazement upon their faces.
>>> > > >
>>> > > > Then one day while he was jogging, a guy on a motorcycle came around
>>> > > > the curve so fast and boom! It was not a pretty scene. Terrible. The
>>> > > > guy with great cholesterol numbers and terrific blood pressure no
>>> > > > longer had a blood pressure.
>>> > > >
>>> > > > Only 42 the people said. And he looked so young they said.
>>> > > >
>>> > > > Well, to make a long story short, they found his Nike sneakers and
>>> > > > buried him in his jogging gear. A real shame. I mean, they were real
>>> > > > expensive Nike sneakers. Anyway, that's life. One day you're here, and
>>> > > > the next day...
>>> > > >
>>> > > > Mel

Brad,

Yes, it's kind of chilly here. No, haven't purchased the treadmill yet. I am
waiting until we go to the Mall where I can check it out.

I've been eating almond butter for some time now. I put it on a Ryvita dark
rye crispbread, usually two crackers, and then finish with a banana.

Mel

"Brad Sheppard" <[email hidden]> wrote in message
news:[email hidden]...

Quoted message said:

Mel,

Do as I say, not as I do <grin>. I'm increasing my alcohol to 2.5 oz
from 1.5, after reading the alcohol link I sent you. Yesterday I
discovered a new food - almond butter (at Trader Joe's). Mixed with
lite banana yogurt, it's pretty good. How goes the treadmill purchase?
Weather got cold here, I'll bet it's freezing in the Poconos.

"M. Schwartz" <[email hidden]> wrote in message

news:<[email hidden]>...

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

On 29 Sep 2003 07:42:37 -0700, Brad Sheppard wrote:

Brad, wait a minute. Aren't you the guy who's been telling me to drink

red

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

wine? And you don't drink the stuff? Something fishy here and it's not

the

Quoted message said:

Quoted message said:

herring. :-)

I'll check those links later. Thanks!

Mel

Quoted message said:

Hi Mel,

Re: wine - My drink is V8 + vodka - I don't drink wine (I'm a
cheapskate). Yes, I follow Willett's pyramid. Here's the latest
scoop from Willett ( video on demand)
http://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutrition/foodpyramid/ I confess I
haven't yet listened to it. Also check press release about alcohol
from Harvard:

http://www.hsph.harvard.edu/press/releases/press01082003.html

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"M. Schwartz" <[email hidden]> wrote in message

news:<[email hidden]>...

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> On 25 Sep 2003 16:25:47 -0700, Brad Sheppard wrote:
>
> Brad, are you following Dr. Willett's pyramid?
>
> Mel
>
>> Mel,
>>
>> Yeah - red wine is good stuff! You really only need one drink a day
>> (at your weight). I drink green tea with meals and after meals -

have

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>> you tried any of the flavored green teas - yum! Re: CRP - it
>> certainly can't hurt - if you have sources of inflammation like gum
>> disease they should be dealt with. If your CRP is high you might

try

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>> some of the dietary strategies to lower it. It is true that these
>> strategies to lower a high CRP have not yet been proven to prevent
>> heart disease - but then again it's unlikely that the strategies

will

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>> do any harm. If your CRP is ok it's one less thing to worry about.
>> Re: Dr. Willett - his book is great - I've also looked at some of

his

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>> research - very impressive, at least to me. Dr. Willett et al. was
>> the inventor of "glycemic load" which is being used more and more.

Dr.

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>> Willett's group, along with others, has finally pushed the USDA to
>> revise its outdated food pyramid.
>>
>> [email hidden] (M. Schwartz) wrote in message

news:<[email hidden]>...

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>>> [email hidden] (Brad Sheppard) wrote in message

news:<[email hidden]>...

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>>>
>>> Brad, I do have lots of respect for Dr. Willett. I have learned

much

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>>> from his book "Eat, Drink, And Be Healthy".
>>>
>>> I don't have a problem paying doctors because my insurance pays the
>>> whole thing. I just kind of like my present cardiologist. However,

I

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>>> have to find out more about the red wine thing.
>>>
>>> I kind of feel it's hard to change my present routine of water with
>>> meals followed by green tea at lunch and dinner (after the water).
>>>
>>> I would think there is no harm taking a CRP test and will again ask

my

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>>> cardiologist at the next visit. Maybe just comparing the difference
>>> between test results could be of some value?
>>>
>>> Mel
>>>
>>>
>>>> Mel,
>>>>
>>>> Your doc is wrong on both counts (CRP test and alcohol), but you
>>>> really shouldn't listen to me. I know it would cost you $$$ to

get a

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>>>> second opinion, and maybe you're comfortable with your current

doc.

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>>>> In my opinion, the alcohol could reduce your risk by 20 - 40

percent,

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>>>> and also lower your overall mortality. re: CRP test - no harm in
>>>> taking it - it may provide valuable info. Re: liver problems-

highly

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>>>> doubtful from 1 - 2 drinks a day, and you're being monitored on a
>>>> regualr basis because of your statin drug. Re: living to a healthy

old

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>>>> age takes luck - some, but we also make our own luck. Dr. Willett
>>>> says that our Western diet causes 60-80 percent of heart disease.

If

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>>>> you're science oriented read
>>>>

http://www.sciam.com/article.cfm?articleID=0007C5B6-7152-1DF6-9733809EC588EEDF

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>>>>
>>>> [email hidden] (M. Schwartz) wrote in message

news:<[email hidden]>...

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>>>> > [email hidden] (Brad Sheppard) wrote in message

news:<[email hidden]>...

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>>>> >
>>>> > Brad, why do sense underlying anger or hostility?
>>>> >
>>>> > I haven't purchased a treadmill. I will be going to the Mall and
>>>> > checking it out. If it feels okay, then I will do some research

on

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>>>> > brands before buying. I much prefer walking outdoors but the

winter

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>>>> > here is just too harsh.
>>>> >
>>>> > My cardiologist says the CRP test is not of any use for me.
>>>> >
>>>> > Red wine? Well, my cardiologist says just one or two glasses a

week or

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>>>> > risk liver problems. I don't feel comfortable taking a chance on
>>>> > making matters worse.
>>>> >
>>>> > I agree we should strive to do the best we can. I think living

to a

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>>>> > ripe old age in good health requires lots of luck. If your

fellow man

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>>>> > doesn't kill you, then something else will either kill a part or

all

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>>>> > of you. I don't see too many healthy people over 70 jogging on

the

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>>>> > road. :-)
>>>> >
>>>> > Ahh, maybe they're at home with some 22 year old chick. :-))
>>>> >
>>>> > Mel
>>>> >
>>>> > > Hi there Mel!
>>>> > >
>>>> > > Did you get your treadmill yet? I'd suggest being more

pro-active.

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>>>> > > You never got at CRP test, or Hba1c, either? If you have a

high

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>>>> > > degree of inflammation, that can be addressed. Moderate

drinking is

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>>>> > > one way - hmmm, we talked about that before. I seem to sense
>>>> > > underlying anger or hostility - yes? Not good for your

arteries.

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>>>> > > Meditation might help. Re: my HDL - my lipid profile has

improved on

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>>>> > > each of the four readings and I expect another improvement in

two

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>>>> > > weeks (another test). I also have room for improvement on my

Hba1c -

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>>>> > > at 5.2 it's just ok, not great. A lower Hba1c means lower

mortality.

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>>>> > > Hba1c is the amount of glucose sticking to your blood cells -

over 7

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>>>> > > is diabetic. Re: your story - hey, we should strive to do the

best we

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>>>> > > can. I'm not fatalistic. I'd like to live to a ripe old age

in good

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>>>> > > health.
>>>> > >
>>>> > > [email hidden] (M. Schwartz) wrote in message

news:<[email hidden]>...

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>>>> > > > [email hidden] (Brad Sheppard) wrote in message

news:<[email hidden]>...

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>>>> > > > > My HDL vs LDL has keep improving this year to the point

where they are

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>>>> > > > > now equal:
>>>> > > > > jan hdl 51 ldl 79
>>>> > > > > may hdl 59 ldl 71
>>>> > > > > july hdl 68 ldl 74
>>>> > > > > sept hdl 67 ldl 67 Ratio CHOL/HDLC 2.2
>>>> > > > >
>>>> > > > > Key dietary changes 1) a drink a day 2) oily fish or fish

oil capsules

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>>>> > > > > every day 3) no refined grains, added sugars, or white

potatoes 4)

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>>>> > > > > more servings of nuts (peanuts, walnuts) 5) (last 51

days) - eating 7

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>>>> > > > > equal calorie meals thru out the day. My CRP is also

extremely good -

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>>>> > > > > .11 My blood pressure has declined as well, from 127/80

(ok- not

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>>>> > > > > great) to a stellar 105/65. I seem not to be getting

older, but

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>>>> > > > > better! No - I didn't add any medication this year. If

anyone is

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>>>> > > > > interested I'll post my typical days diet.
>>>> > > >
>>>> > > > Your HDL is dropping. This could be a dangerous trend.
>>>> > > >
>>>> > > > Brad, we are all getting older. Every day we get one day

closer to the

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>>>> > > > grave.
>>>> > > >
>>>> > > > I knew a fellow who had an HDL of 77, LDL of 82, TG of 63,

TC of 164

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>>>> > > > and without any statin drug. He was a real fanatic about

exercise and

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>>>> > > > jogged every morning for around five miles. He was mostly

vegetarian

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>>>> > > > but did eat salmon. He had a blood pressure of 110/65 and

was just 42

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>>>> > > > years old. Everyone marveled at his athletic and youthful

appearance.

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>>>> > > > People would say this guy is going to make it to 100 years

old for

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>>>> > > > sure. At 42 he looked like someone in their twenties. He

bought all

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>>>> > > > his food except for salmon at the health food store. He

wouldn't touch

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>>>> > > > any refined carbs or sugar or any dairy product.
>>>> > > >
>>>> > > > You should have seen him whizzing by so fast that not even

the dogs

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>>>> > > > could catch him. His Nike sneakers were just a blur. "There

he goes"

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>>>> > > > people would say, a look of amazement upon their faces.
>>>> > > >
>>>> > > > Then one day while he was jogging, a guy on a motorcycle

came around

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>>>> > > > the curve so fast and boom! It was not a pretty scene.

Terrible. The

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>>>> > > > guy with great cholesterol numbers and terrific blood

pressure no

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>>>> > > > longer had a blood pressure.
>>>> > > >
>>>> > > > Only 42 the people said. And he looked so young they said.
>>>> > > >
>>>> > > > Well, to make a long story short, they found his Nike

sneakers and

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>>>> > > > buried him in his jogging gear. A real shame. I mean, they

were real

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>>>> > > > expensive Nike sneakers. Anyway, that's life. One day you're

here, and

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>>>> > > > the next day...
>>>> > > >
>>>> > > > Mel