Shock research published in the medical journal ‘Atherosclerosis’ has revealed that our levels of LDL – so-called ‘bad’ – cholesterol can rise by as much as 20% in December and January compared to May and June. Higher levels of Low Density Lipoprotein (LDL) can cause a build-up of plaque in our arteries, causing them to become blocked. Potentially, this can lead to coronary heart disease, heart attack or a stroke.
Harvey Bhandal is the Managing Director of Sinclair Method UK, specialists in medically supervised alcohol reduction. He says: ‘Danish researchers first detected this post-Christmas spike. Just like us, the Danes love their Christmas drinks, roasts and creamy desserts.
‘Their paper reveals that the risk of having elevated cholesterol is six times higher after the Christmas break. While most people know that fatty roasts and heavy desserts increase our levels of LDL, fewer people realise excessive alcohol consumption is also a key factor.
‘Drinking too much, or binge drinking, can significantly raise levels of LDL cholesterol. That’s why we are urging people to put the “No” into November and stop or cut back on their drinking this month, to ensure their LDL levels are lowered in the run-up to Christmas.
‘For those of us who find difficulty stopping or cutting back, a proven method for reducing alcohol consumption involves taking a prescribed medication supported by online coaching and counselling. Known as The Sinclair Method (TSM), this established treatment boasts an 80% success rate in helping people to overcome problem drinking.
‘Patients take naltrexone orally one hour before drinking, which reduces alcohol’s rewarding effects. This timing helps retrain the brain’s reward system through a process called “pharmacological extinction”.
‘Sinclair Method UK offers personalised treatment that includes one-to-one support from a private GP. Each patient is assigned a dedicated coach for 3 to 6 months to guide them through the medication programme. Consultations are conducted via phone or video call and prescriptions are provided for the appropriate medication. All services are completely private and strictly confidential.
‘Sinclair Method UK’s founders worked closely with Dr. Roy Eskapa, long-time friend and colleague of Dr. David Sinclair, whose pioneering research gave birth to this life-saving treatment. Dr. Eskapa personally trained and advised Sinclair Method UK’s team. These strong links are why it is the only organisation entitled to use The Sinclair Method brand and trademark in the UK. For full details of Sinclair Method UK’s treatments: see: https://www.sinclairmethoduk.com/
