What supplements lower cholesterol
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Supplements That Lower Cholesterol: A Comprehensive Review
Vitamin C and Cholesterol Reduction
Vitamin C Supplementation
Vitamin C has been shown to significantly reduce serum low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and 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 notable decrease in 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
Unesterified Plant Sterols and Stanols
Plant sterols and stanols are effective in lowering LDL cholesterol. A study involving hypercholesterolemic subjects showed that unesterified plant sterols and stanols, when consumed at a dosage of 1.8 g/day, reduced LDL cholesterol by 11.3% to 16.0% compared to a control group . These compounds work by suppressing cholesterol absorption in the intestines.
Phytosterol-Enriched Supplements
Phytosterol-enriched supplements have also been shown to significantly lower total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol. The DESCO study demonstrated that a daily supplement containing 2.5 g of phytosterols reduced total cholesterol by 11.8 mg/dL and LDL cholesterol by 7.8 mg/dL . The efficacy of these supplements is enhanced when combined with a Mediterranean diet.
Red Yeast Rice
Red Yeast Rice Supplements
Red yeast rice is another effective supplement for lowering cholesterol. A study conducted on American adults found that a red yeast rice supplement (2.4 g/day) significantly reduced total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides over a 12-week period . This supplement provides a food-based approach to managing cholesterol levels.
Capsaicinoids
Capsaicinoid Supplementation
Capsaicinoids, found in chili peppers, have been shown to reduce serum total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol. A meta-analysis of controlled human trials indicated that capsaicinoid supplementation significantly lowered total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol levels . However, no significant effect was observed on HDL cholesterol and triglycerides.
Naringin
Naringin Supplementation
Naringin, a flavonoid found in citrus fruits, has demonstrated lipid-lowering effects. In hypercholesterolemic subjects, naringin supplementation (400 mg/day) reduced total cholesterol by 14% and LDL cholesterol by 17% over an eight-week period . Additionally, naringin enhanced antioxidant enzyme activities in erythrocytes.
Probiotics
Probiotic Supplementation
Probiotics have also been found to improve lipid profiles. A meta-analysis of 11 randomized clinical trials showed that probiotic supplementation led to reductions in total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol by 0.17 mmol/L and 0.22 mmol/L, respectively . The effect was more pronounced with long-term use and in individuals with mild hypercholesterolemia.
Conclusion
Several dietary supplements have been shown to effectively lower cholesterol levels. Vitamin C, plant sterols and stanols, red yeast rice, capsaicinoids, naringin, and probiotics all offer significant benefits in reducing LDL cholesterol and, in some cases, total cholesterol and triglycerides. These supplements can be valuable tools in managing hypercholesterolemia and reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
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