Supplements to lower triglycerides
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Supplements to Lower Triglycerides: An Overview
Probiotics and Triglyceride Reduction
Lactobacillus curvatus and Lactobacillus plantarum
Recent studies have shown that specific probiotic strains can significantly reduce triglyceride levels. Supplementation with Lactobacillus curvatus HY7601 and Lactobacillus plantarum KY1032 has been found to lower serum triglycerides by 20% in hypertriglyceridemic subjects over a 12-week period . This reduction is accompanied by an increase in apolipoprotein A-V (apoA-V) levels, which plays a crucial role in lipid metabolism 13. The probiotics also led to a decrease in various plasma metabolites, including lysophosphatidylcholines, which are linked to lipid metabolism .
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: EPA and DHA
Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA) and Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA)
Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA and DHA, are well-documented for their triglyceride-lowering effects. DHA has been shown to reduce blood triglycerides more effectively than EPA, with a significant reduction observed in a 12-week study . However, DHA also tends to increase low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels, which may offset some cardiovascular benefits 29. Both EPA and DHA reduce triglycerides, but DHA appears to have a more pronounced effect .
Fish Oil Supplements
Fish oil supplements, which contain both EPA and DHA, have been effective in lowering triglycerides by nearly 30% in diabetic patients, according to a meta-analysis . However, this reduction is sometimes accompanied by a slight increase in LDL cholesterol 47. Fish oil supplementation has also been shown to be beneficial in patients undergoing antiretroviral therapy, reducing triglyceride levels by 25% within the first four weeks .
Vitamin C and Triglycerides
Vitamin C Supplementation
Vitamin C has also been identified as a potential supplement for lowering triglycerides. A meta-analysis of 13 randomized controlled trials found that supplementation with at least 500 mg/day of vitamin C for a minimum of four weeks resulted in a significant decrease in serum triglyceride concentrations . This suggests that vitamin C could be a useful adjunct in managing hypertriglyceridemia.
Other Supplements
α-Lipoic Acid (LA)
While α-lipoic acid (LA) is known for its benefits in weight loss and reducing oxidative stress, it does not appear to significantly affect triglyceride levels. A 24-week study found no significant reduction in triglycerides among overweight or obese adults taking LA supplements .
Carnosine
Carnosine supplementation has shown promise in animal models, particularly in diabetic mice. Prolonged supplementation resulted in a significant reduction in plasma triglyceride levels and improved markers of atherosclerotic plaque stability . However, more research is needed to confirm these effects in humans.
Conclusion
Several supplements, including specific probiotics, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamin C, have demonstrated efficacy in lowering triglyceride levels. While probiotics like Lactobacillus curvatus and Lactobacillus plantarum, as well as omega-3 fatty acids (particularly DHA), show the most promise, vitamin C also offers a viable option. However, the potential increase in LDL cholesterol with some of these supplements warrants careful consideration. Further research is needed to fully understand the long-term effects and optimal dosages for these supplements in managing hypertriglyceridemia.
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