The idea of taking statins to offset the effects of junk food has been criticised by diabetes experts. New research had recommended that fast food outlets should give out free statin pills as a way of combating the impact of unhealthy food, as they can reduce the levels of bad cholesterol in the blood, which is why they are normally prescribed to decrease the risk of cardiovascular disease.
However, there are now worries that using statins could encourage people to lead unhealthier lives, eat more fast food and therefore increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes . Although studies have found that a single, cheap statin pill could offset the increased risk to the heart caused by the fat in a cheeseburger and a small milkshake, there are concerns that it is both irresponsible and dangerous to promote their use as a quick fix to counteract the effects of an unhealthy diet.
Zoe Harriso, Care Advisor at the charity Diabetes UK, said Statins can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease by lowering the bad cholesterol in our blood which can be raised due to a high-fat diet. However, they don’t prevent all the side effects that result from an excessive intake of fatty food. Statins also have some serious side effects – such as damage to the liver, pancreas and muscles – which is why they should always be prescribed by your doctor who can then closely monitor how you are responding to the medication.

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