Supplements that lower cholesterol
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Supplements That Lower Cholesterol: A Comprehensive Review
Introduction to Cholesterol-Lowering Supplements
Cholesterol management is crucial for reducing the risk of coronary heart disease (CHD). While statins are commonly prescribed, many individuals seek alternative or complementary options through dietary supplements. This article reviews various supplements that have been shown to lower cholesterol levels effectively.
Vitamin C: Reducing LDL and Triglycerides
Vitamin C supplementation has been demonstrated to significantly reduce low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and triglycerides. A meta-analysis of 13 randomized controlled trials found that taking at least 500 mg of vitamin C daily for a minimum of four weeks resulted in a reduction of LDL cholesterol by 7.9 mg/dL and triglycerides by 20.1 mg/dL . However, the effect on high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol was not significant.
Plant Sterols and Stanols: Effective LDL Reduction
Plant sterols and stanols are well-documented for their cholesterol-lowering properties. Studies have shown that these compounds can reduce LDL cholesterol by 11.3% to 16.0% when consumed in their unesterified form . Another meta-analysis confirmed that plant sterol/stanol supplements can lower LDL cholesterol by 12 mg/dL, similar to the effect seen with food-based sterol/stanol-enriched products . The DESCO study further highlighted that adherence to a Mediterranean diet enhances the cholesterol-lowering effects of plant sterols .
Red Yeast Rice: A Potent Natural Statin
Red yeast rice (RYR) is another effective supplement for lowering cholesterol. A study involving 83 hyperlipidemic subjects found that RYR supplementation significantly reduced total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides compared to a placebo . The combination of RYR with other natural extracts like policosanols and artichoke leaf extracts has also shown promising results, reducing LDL cholesterol by 21.4% and total cholesterol by 14.1% over 16 weeks .
Naringin: Enhancing Antioxidant Activity and Lowering LDL
Naringin, a flavonoid found in citrus fruits, has been shown to lower plasma total cholesterol by 14% and LDL cholesterol by 17% in hypercholesterolemic subjects. Additionally, it enhances antioxidant enzyme activities, which may provide further cardiovascular benefits .
Capsaicinoids: Novel Cholesterol-Lowering Agents
Capsaicinoids, the active compounds in chili peppers, have also been studied for their cholesterol-lowering effects. A meta-analysis of controlled human trials found that capsaicinoid supplementation significantly reduced serum total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol levels . However, no significant effects were observed on HDL cholesterol and triglycerides.
Conclusion
Several dietary supplements have been shown to effectively lower cholesterol levels, particularly LDL cholesterol, which is a major risk factor for coronary heart disease. Vitamin C, plant sterols and stanols, red yeast rice, naringin, and capsaicinoids are among the most promising options. These supplements offer a viable alternative or complement to traditional statin therapy, especially for individuals seeking non-prescription solutions. Further research and randomized controlled trials are warranted to validate these findings and explore the long-term benefits and safety of these supplements.
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