Natural cholesterol reducers
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Natural Cholesterol Reducers: Insights from Recent Research
Plant Sterols and Stanols: Effective Cholesterol-Lowering Agents
Mechanism and Efficacy of Plant Sterols and Stanols
Plant sterols and stanols are well-documented for their cholesterol-lowering properties. These compounds work by inhibiting the absorption of cholesterol in the intestines, leading to a reduction in plasma LDL cholesterol levels. A meta-analysis of 41 trials demonstrated that an intake of 2 grams per day of plant sterols or stanols can reduce LDL cholesterol by approximately 10%. The efficacy of these compounds is similar, regardless of whether they are in esterified or unesterified forms. Additionally, combining plant sterols or stanols with a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol can lead to a 20% reduction in LDL cholesterol.
Safety and Additional Benefits
The safety profile of plant sterols and stanols is generally favorable. Studies have shown that they do not significantly affect plasma levels of vitamins A and D, and while beta carotene levels may decline, this is not expected to lead to adverse health outcomes. Moreover, plant sterols and stanols have been found to increase plasma levels of certain fat-soluble vitamins, such as retinol and alpha-tocopherol.
Combined Natural Supplements: Red Yeast Rice, Policosanols, and Artichoke Leaf Extracts
Efficacy of Combined Natural Supplements
A natural cholesterol-lowering supplement (NCLS) containing red yeast rice, policosanols, and artichoke leaf extracts has shown promising results in reducing LDL cholesterol. In a randomized, placebo-controlled trial, subjects with moderate hypercholesterolemia experienced a 14.3% reduction in LDL cholesterol after 16 weeks of supplementation. This combination also reduced total cholesterol and apolipoprotein B100 levels without affecting safety parameters such as liver and renal function.
Artichoke Leaf Extracts
Artichoke leaf extracts (ALEs) have also been studied independently for their cholesterol-lowering effects. In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, ALE consumption resulted in a modest but statistically significant reduction in total cholesterol by 4.2% over 12 weeks. Although the reduction in LDL cholesterol was not significant, the overall decrease in total cholesterol suggests a beneficial effect.
Other Natural Agents: Turmeric, Fenugreek, Avocado, and Garlic
Diverse Mechanisms of Action
Various natural agents, including turmeric, fenugreek, avocado, tomato, and garlic, have been identified for their cholesterol-lowering properties. These agents work through different mechanisms, such as inhibiting cholesterol synthesis, disturbing cholesterol absorption, converting cholesterol to other forms, and reducing oxidative stress . For instance, turmeric and fenugreek have been shown to inhibit enzymes involved in cholesterol synthesis, while avocado and tomato may help in reducing oxidative stress.
Cranberry Anthocyanins
Cranberry anthocyanins (CrA) have been found to lower plasma cholesterol by increasing the excretion of fecal sterols. In a study involving hamsters, CrA supplementation led to a dose-dependent decrease in plasma total cholesterol and aorta atherosclerotic plaque, accompanied by increased excretion of both neutral and acidic sterols. This suggests that CrA could be an effective herbal medicine for managing cholesterol levels.
Conclusion
Natural agents such as plant sterols, stanols, red yeast rice, policosanols, artichoke leaf extracts, and various other plant-based compounds offer promising alternatives for cholesterol management. These agents work through diverse mechanisms, including inhibiting cholesterol absorption, enhancing cholesterol excretion, and reducing oxidative stress. While the efficacy and safety of these natural agents are supported by multiple studies, further research is needed to fully understand their long-term effects and optimal usage.
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