Sir,
Zocor (simvastatin) has been repeatedly mentioned as possibly causing disturbed sleep. I think most mentionings stem from a 2007 study referenced in this article,
http://www.webmd.com/cholesterol-manage ... fect-sleep. I can say that for me, taking or not taking simvastatin does not seem to affect my sleep one way or another.
I think, from my own experience, that most doctors will give lip service to diet as a method of controlling cholesterol, but will be quick to offer (read push) a statin if one's LDL is above 100-130.
I also think that diet is ineffective in reducing cholesterol beyond that which might be achieved through weight loss. Typically, people are advised to “reduce fats and increase whole grains”. But, if one is to maintain a set weight, since calories can only come from carbohydrates, proteins and fats, a reduction in fats must mean an increase in carbohydrates and/or proteins. Unfortunately, in today's world, this probably means an increase in refined carbohydrates (read sugar). One given the advice to lower cholesterol with diet might give up bacon for a whole-wheat donut and think they're doing good. But, while their cholesterol might drop a little, their triglycerides are going through the roof and they're putting themselves at risk for metabolic syndrome, obesity, diabetes, and heart disease (exactly what they were trying to avoid). I think the epidemic rates of obesity in this county could very well be attributed to the dietary advice routinely given to control cholesterol over the past 30 years or so.
So back to your questions, Sir. I wouldn't expect much help from a physician regarding a diet that actually works and I think only you can tell if a drug is affecting your sleep (stop taking it for a while).But most importantly, I would recommend a diet as low in processed foods as possible.
Jay