I take a statin every day. I prescribe them almost every day. (no one is immune to genetics). It is worth trying daily oatmeal, a diet rich in phytosterols (http://www.dietaryfiberfood.com/cholesterol-low.php) & daily aerobic exercise, BUT, if that doesn't get you to goal, consider a statin. While all drugs can have side-effects, the statins as a class, have a very benign profile, esp. considering how much they lower risk of non-fatal & fatal MI (plus many other potential benefits that aren't official). If you develop muscle (not joint) aches or elevated liver enzymes, usually stopping the statin is sufficient, rarely is specific treatment required. Trying another statin is reasonable after things return to normal. Unfortunately this is trial and error,& may require trying several statins until one is found that you can tolerate