That almost seemed to make sense, until I reflected that other animals – cows, for instance – also have a strictly vegetarian diet, and they’re positively bursting with cholesterol. But who was I to argue with my physician? I promised to increase my consumption of jamon Iberico, vino tinto and chocolate negro. I also started eating oatmeal every morning. Eventually my cholesterol levels dropped to the point where there was no more talk about going on medication. Was it the oatmeal, the wine, the chocolate or the ham that did the trick? Who knows? Who cares? I’m doing my best to include all of them in my diet. And now I’m adding artichokes to this rigorous regimen. Let’s face it, they’re a lot more fun to eat than Lipitor.
Originally published June 12, 2011