Seeing as you can't take the cholesterol meds., have you given any thought to trying cinnamon. I have friends who have been able to control their high cholesterol with it. You get it at the health food store or an online vitamin type site. It comes in capsules. There has been research supporting this but can't remember where. Do some online research then speak with your doc. Hey, it can't hurt. Also, you need the capsules as you need to consume at least 2 tsp a day probably more in your case. Research then talk with your doc. Hang in there! Marilyn