At each visit the patients underwent a physical examination including blood pressure, pulse and weight. Blood pressure was measured while the patient was in a recumbent position. Blood was drawn for TSH, Hemoglobin, renal and liver function, total cholesterol, high density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL- cholesterol), triglycerides (TG), oxidized low density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) and hs- CRP. LDL-cholesterol was calculated and arterial stiffness was assessed. The patients' medication regimen was not changed throughout the study period.