Vitamins and cholesterol reduction
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Vitamin C and Cholesterol Reduction
Research shows that vitamin C supplementation can significantly lower serum low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and triglyceride levels, especially in individuals with high cholesterol. Doses of at least 500 mg per day for a minimum of four weeks have been found effective in reducing LDL cholesterol by about 7.9 mg/dL and triglycerides by about 20.1 mg/dL, while changes in high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol were not significant . In people with diabetes or metabolic syndrome, vitamin C intake also appears to lower total cholesterol and improve other metabolic markers, potentially reducing cardiovascular disease risk .
Vitamin D and Lipid Profile Improvement
Multiple studies and meta-analyses indicate that vitamin D supplementation can help reduce total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglyceride levels, though the effects on HDL cholesterol are less consistent 24510. In real-world and clinical trial settings, increases in vitamin D levels are associated with decreases in total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides, but not with significant changes in HDL cholesterol .
In overweight or obese women, vitamin D supplementation has been shown to significantly reduce triglycerides and total cholesterol, and slightly increase HDL cholesterol, but does not have a significant effect on LDL cholesterol . In prediabetic individuals, vitamin D supplementation mainly reduces triglyceride levels, especially with longer treatment durations and in those with higher baseline triglycerides, but does not significantly affect total cholesterol, LDL, or HDL cholesterol .
A systematic review also found that calcium and vitamin D co-supplementation can significantly reduce total cholesterol and triglycerides and increase HDL cholesterol, but does not significantly lower LDL cholesterol .
Vitamin E and Lipoprotein Oxidation
Vitamin E supplementation does not significantly change cholesterol or triglyceride levels, but it does increase the resistance of LDL and HDL to oxidation, which may help reduce the risk of atherosclerosis. However, it also increases cholesteryl ester transfer activity, which could potentially counteract some of its beneficial effects .
Mechanisms and Broader Implications
Vitamin D is involved in lipid metabolism and the development of atherosclerosis. Supplementation can lower total cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL cholesterol, and increase HDL cholesterol, all of which are important for cardiovascular health. Vitamin D deficiency is linked to worse lipid profiles and higher cardiovascular risk, while supplementation may improve endothelial function and reduce inflammation and oxidative stress .
Conclusion
Vitamins C and D both show beneficial effects in reducing cholesterol and triglyceride levels, particularly in individuals with elevated risk factors such as hypercholesterolemia, obesity, or prediabetes 12345689+1 MORE. Vitamin E, while not directly lowering cholesterol, may help protect lipoproteins from oxidation . These findings suggest that vitamin supplementation, especially with vitamin C and D, can be a useful adjunct in managing cholesterol and reducing cardiovascular risk, though the effects may vary depending on individual health status and baseline lipid levels.
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