Supplements high cholesterol
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The Impact of Supplements on High Cholesterol: A Comprehensive Review
Vitamin C Supplementation and Cholesterol Levels
Vitamin C has been extensively studied for its potential to lower cholesterol levels. A meta-analysis of 13 randomized controlled trials found that supplementation with at least 500 mg/day of vitamin C for a minimum of 4 weeks significantly reduced serum low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol by an average of 7.9 mg/dL and triglycerides by 20.1 mg/dL. However, the effect on high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol was not significant.
Black Rice Anthocyanin Extract (BRAE) and Cholesterol Metabolism
Research on black rice anthocyanin extract (BRAE) has shown promising results in regulating cholesterol metabolism. In a study involving C57BL/6J mice fed a high-fat and cholesterol diet, BRAE supplementation significantly reduced body weight, serum triglycerides, total cholesterol, and non-HDL cholesterol levels. Additionally, BRAE improved gut microbiota composition, which is crucial for maintaining cholesterol homeostasis.
Calcium and Vitamin D Supplementation
Calcium supplements, alone or in combination with vitamin D, have been shown to positively affect cholesterol metabolism. A meta-analysis of 22 trials involving 4071 participants revealed that calcium supplementation significantly reduced LDL cholesterol by 0.12 mmol/L and increased HDL cholesterol by 0.05 mmol/L. These findings suggest that calcium supplements could be a useful non-pharmaceutical strategy for cholesterol control.
Probiotics and Lipid Profiles
Probiotic supplementation has also been investigated for its effects on lipid profiles. A meta-analysis of 11 randomized clinical trials found that probiotics significantly reduced total cholesterol by 0.17 mmol/L and LDL cholesterol by 0.22 mmol/L. However, the impact on HDL cholesterol and triglycerides was not significant. Long-term probiotic intervention was more effective in reducing cholesterol levels compared to short-term use.
Plant Sterols and Stanols
A study on a softgel dietary supplement containing esterified plant sterols and stanols demonstrated significant reductions in LDL cholesterol, non-HDL cholesterol, and total cholesterol in individuals with primary hypercholesterolemia. The supplement, providing 1.8 g/day of esterified plant sterols and stanols, was effective as an adjunct to a cholesterol-lowering diet.
Naringin and Antioxidant Enzyme Activities
Naringin, a flavonoid found in citrus fruits, has shown lipid-lowering effects in hypercholesterolemic subjects. Supplementation with 400 mg/day of naringin for 8 weeks resulted in a 14% reduction in total cholesterol and a 17% reduction in LDL cholesterol. Additionally, naringin enhanced erythrocyte antioxidant enzyme activities, suggesting its potential role in both cholesterol management and antioxidant defense.
Tocotrienols and LDL Oxidation
Tocotrienols, a form of vitamin E, have been studied for their antioxidant properties and potential to inhibit cholesterol synthesis. However, a study found that while tocotrienol supplementation increased LDL oxidative resistance, it did not significantly lower serum or LDL cholesterol levels in hypercholesterolemic subjects.
Selenium and Magnesium Co-Supplementation
Co-supplementation with selenium and magnesium has been shown to have beneficial effects on lipid metabolism and antioxidant status. In a study involving hyperlipidemic rats, this combination significantly reduced serum and liver cholesterol levels, improved liver function, and enhanced antioxidant enzyme activities. These findings suggest that selenium and magnesium co-supplementation could be a promising strategy for managing hyperlipidemia.
Betaine and Atherosclerotic Parameters
Betaine supplementation has been investigated for its effects on atherosclerotic parameters and fatty liver. In guinea pigs fed a high cholesterol and methionine diet, betaine supplementation reduced serum cholesterol and homocysteine levels, improved liver histopathology, and decreased oxidative stress markers. These results indicate that betaine may help prevent hyperlipidemia and related complications.
Conclusion
Various dietary supplements, including vitamin C, black rice anthocyanin extract, calcium, probiotics, plant sterols, naringin, tocotrienols, selenium, magnesium, and betaine, have shown potential in managing high cholesterol levels. While some supplements like vitamin C, probiotics, and plant sterols have demonstrated significant lipid-lowering effects, others like tocotrienols have shown mixed results. Overall, these supplements could serve as valuable adjuncts to traditional cholesterol-lowering therapies, but further research is needed to fully understand their long-term efficacy and safety.
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