8 Supplements for Lowering the Cholesterol Level

Did you check your cholesterol levels recently? Checking the cholesterol level at regular intervals is essential. The increasing level of LDL cholesterol in the blood increases the chances of heart diseases including heart attack and stroke. Consulting the doctor and performing the recommended tests will determine the cholesterol level and the doctor will suggest the best tips and medicines for lowering the cholesterol level.

Exercising, eating healthier food, changing your sedentary lifestyle and avoiding foods with high quantity cholesterol is not enough! You can also try supplements to lower cholesterol level. But, don’t get tempted for trying the supplements claiming to lower cholesterol level. You need to choose the best ones to lead a healthy life with healthy cholesterol levels. Consult a doctor before trying the supplements to lower cholesterol level.

8 Supplements for Lowering the Cholesterol Level

8 Supplements for Lowering the Cholesterol Level

  1. Phytosterols

    Phytosterols are plant-based compounds that prevent absorption of cholesterol in the intestine. Consuming 2 g of sterols supplement regularly will lower LDL Cholesterol level in the blood by about 9-20%. Phytosterols are naturally present in fruits, whole grains, vegetables and nuts also.

    Following the Food and Drug Administration guidelines, several food manufacturers add phytosterols for preparing foods. Such food items get a label from the FDA. Make sure to check the label before purchasing such product.

  2. Niacin

    Niacin is a drug sold on prescription. This drug with Vitamin-B lowers the LDL cholesterol level by 30%. Niacin also boosts the HDL which is the good cholesterol and also reduces the Triglycerides, which causes blockage of the arteries. The doctors prescribe Niacin supplements to patients with a high level of cholesterol.

    You must even learn about the associated side-effects of Niacin. The person may experience a headache, vomiting, nausea, itching, and flushing as side-effects of Niacin. You must use niacin supplements for lowering cholesterol under medical supervision.

  3. Soluble Fiber

    Soluble fibers dissolve in the liquid and form a gel. The formed gel reduces the absorption of cholesterol in the blood and lowers the LDL cholesterol level up to 5-15%. The soluble fibers also are beneficial to the body for its heart-healthy effects.

    Grains rich in soluble fiber like psyllium and beta-glucan in barley and oats effectively reduce the LDL cholesterol level and improve heart health. Some other foods rich in soluble fibers are orange, pear, asparagus, peach, potato, and kidney beans. It is recommended to consume 20-30 g of soluble fiber for significant benefits in lowering cholesterol.

  4. Red Yeast Rice Extract

    Red Yeast Rice Extract is a popular cholesterol-lowering supplement. Red Yeast Rice Extract supplement gets prepared by fermentation of red yeast on white rice. The essential component- Monacolin K in the extract reduces the production of cholesterol in the liver.

    But, FDA warns about the production of Lovastatin, which naturally occurs in the red yeast rice products as being potentially dangerous. There is no way for determining the quality of lovastatin and the right quantity of the component beneficial for the condition. Regular blood tests will help to detect the working effects and adverse effects of Red Yeast Rice Extract supplement to lower cholesterol.

  5. Soy Protein

    Soybeans contain soy protein which effectively works in reducing the cholesterol level but in a small amount. The foods made from soybeans are effective. Soy milk, tofu, and steamed soybeans are rich in lean protein.

    People with high cholesterol level can consume the foods with soy protein instead of beef and reduce the amount of cholesterol in the diet. Soy protein also reduces the level of LDL cholesterol in the blood. The side effects include constipation, bloating, diarrhea, nausea, and allergic reactions.

  6. Ginger

    Ginger effectively reduces the total cholesterol level including the LDL and triglycerides level. Ginger also boosts up the HDL cholesterol level. You can add ginger as a supplement to your daily diet or consume it raw. There are no side effects of consuming ginger, and additionally, you will experience several other health benefits with the use of ginger supplements.

  7. Flaxseed

    The flaxseed and its oil extracted from Flax flower are rich sources of omega-3 fatty acids. Flax plants grow in temperate climates and get identified for its blue color. Using flax oil and flaxseed powder supplements will raise the HDL (good cholesterol) levels. Flaxseed supplement also offers several other health benefits along with lowering cholesterol.

  8. Artichoke Extract

    Artichoke extract collected from the leaf reduces the overall cholesterol level and LDL cholesterol level. But, the effects are small in terms of lowering cholesterol from the artichoke supplements. The side effects of artichoke supplements may include gas and allergic reactions.

Conclusion

Never try any supplements without your doctor’s consultation. Several other types of research claim other natural components to be effective supplements for lowering cholesterol level; but, without proper information never try those. Control your diet and perform physical exercises regularly to lower the cholesterol level in blood and lead a healthy life with a healthy heart!

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Team PainAssist
Team PainAssist
Written, Edited or Reviewed By: Team PainAssist, Pain Assist Inc. This article does not provide medical advice. See disclaimer
Last Modified On:January 16, 2024

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