Vitamins that affect cholesterol levels
Pro Research Analysisby 
Searched over 200M research papers
Vitamin D and Cholesterol Levels
Effects of Vitamin D Supplementation on Lipid Profiles
Multiple studies have examined how vitamin D affects cholesterol and other blood lipids. Evidence from meta-analyses and systematic reviews shows that vitamin D supplementation can lower total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglyceride levels, especially in people who are vitamin D deficient, though the effects on HDL cholesterol are less consistent or not significant in most studies 346710. Some research also suggests that vitamin D supplementation may slightly increase HDL cholesterol, but this effect is generally small 34. However, not all studies agree, and some randomized controlled trials have found that vitamin D supplementation may have neutral or even potentially unfavorable effects on certain lipid parameters, such as increasing total cholesterol and triglycerides in specific populations 58.
Mechanisms Linking Vitamin D and Cholesterol Metabolism
Vitamin D and cholesterol share overlapping metabolic pathways, and vitamin D may help regulate the balance between cellular and plasma cholesterol. This regulation could explain why vitamin D supplementation sometimes improves cardiovascular risk factors, even if it does not always lead to better cardiovascular outcomes . Vitamin D deficiency is associated with a more atherogenic lipid profile and increased risk of cardiovascular events, while supplementation may help reduce inflammation, oxidative stress, and endothelial dysfunction, all of which are linked to cholesterol metabolism and atherosclerosis 27.
Vitamin B12 and Cholesterol
Vitamin B12 Deficiency and Increased Cholesterol
Vitamin B12 also plays a role in cholesterol metabolism. Studies show that low vitamin B12 status is linked to higher total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and an increased cholesterol-to-HDL ratio. The mechanism involves reduced methylation potential, which leads to increased expression of genes that promote cholesterol biosynthesis . Therefore, vitamin B12 deficiency is considered a metabolic risk factor for elevated cholesterol and related health issues .
Vitamin C and Cholesterol
Vitamin C Intake and Cholesterol Reduction
Vitamin C, known for its antioxidant properties, has been shown to lower total cholesterol levels, particularly in people with diabetes or metabolic syndrome. Regular vitamin C intake may also improve endothelial function and reduce inflammation, which can further help manage cholesterol and reduce cardiovascular risk .
Conclusion
Vitamins D, B12, and C all influence cholesterol levels through different mechanisms. Vitamin D supplementation generally lowers total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides, especially in those who are deficient, though results can vary depending on the population and study design 346710. Vitamin B12 deficiency is associated with increased cholesterol due to changes in gene methylation and cholesterol biosynthesis . Vitamin C may help lower total cholesterol and improve cardiovascular health, particularly in high-risk groups . Overall, maintaining adequate levels of these vitamins may support healthier cholesterol profiles and reduce cardiovascular risk.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic