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Natural approaches to managing cholesterol

Natural approaches to managing cholesterol

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Smoking tobacco increases the risk approafhes heart disease in several ways, including:. Natural herbal supplement up cholexterol, if possible, can help reverse these harmful effects.

According to a review of studiessome research indicates that when consumed in moderation, alcoholic drinks can increase good HDL cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease. Yet the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention CDC and AHA disagree.

The AHA does not recommend drinking wine or any other alcoholic beverage specifically to lower your cholesterol or improve heart health.

If you drink, the CDC suggests you consume only two drinks per day for males or one drink per day for females on days that you drink. Multiple types of supplements show promise for managing cholesterol.

Plant stanols and sterols are plant versions of cholesterol. According to a research review, clinical studies show that taking 1. Small amounts of plant stanols and sterols are naturally found in vegetable oils and are added to certain oils and butter substitutes.

You may also consider taking certain types of supplements. But speak with a healthcare professional before starting or changing your supplement regimen. Although food companies often advertise products as being low in cholesterol, research from shows that dietary cholesterol has only a small influence on the amount of cholesterol in your body.

That said, some foods high in soluble fibers, omega-3 fatty acids, or monounsaturated fats may help lower cholesterol, including:. Typically, there are no symptoms of high cholesterol. However, signs or symptoms of high cholesterol may include:. Eating foods with cholesterol may not raise your blood cholesterol levels.

Eggs may be part of a healthy, balanced diet. However, if you are at risk for cardiovascular disease, you may want to limit the number of eggs you eat each week.

Exercise and weight loss can also help. Read this article in Spanish. Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available.

VIEW ALL HISTORY. This article is based on scientific evidence, written by experts and fact checked by experts. Our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians strive to be objective, unbiased, honest and to present both sides of the argument. This article contains scientific references.

The numbers in the parentheses 1, 2, 3 are clickable links to peer-reviewed scientific papers. Men and women may experience different symptoms of a heart attack. Coronary heart disease CHD is the leading cause of death among adults in the United States.

Learn about the causes and risks factors of CHD. Follow these tips to prevent heart disease. Discover 28 ways to power up, wind down, and have fun — all in the name of a healthy heart. Work these heart-healthy habits into your lifestyle.

A Quiz for Teens Are You a Workaholic? How Well Do You Sleep? Health Conditions Discover Plan Connect. Nutrition Evidence Based 10 Natural Ways to Lower Your Cholesterol Levels. Medically reviewed by Megan Soliman, MD — By Matthew Thorpe, MD, PhD and Karen Lamoreux — Updated on December 7, Eat monounsaturated fats Use polyunsaturated fats Limit trans fats Eat soluble fiber Exercise Keep a healthy weight Avoid smoking Drink in moderation Consider plant sterols Try supplements FAQ Takeaway Limiting saturated fats in your diet, along with getting regular exercise and engaging in other healthy practices, may help lower the amount of low-density lipoprotein LDL in your blood.

Focus on monounsaturated fats. Prioritize polyunsaturated fats, especially omega-3s. Limit trans fats. Eat soluble fiber. Maintain a healthy-for-you weight. Avoid smoking. Consume alcohol in moderation. Consider plant sterols and stanols. Try supplements. Frequently asked questions.

How we reviewed this article: Sources. Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references.

You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy. Dec 7, Written By Matthew Thorpe, Karen Lamoreux. Oct 12, Written By Matthew Thorpe, Karen Lamoreux. Share this article. Evidence Based This article is based on scientific evidence, written by experts and fact checked by experts.

More in Heart Health for Every Body What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Heart Attacks in Women? Causes and Risks of Heart Disease.

Heart Disease Prevention. Should You Undergo Testing for Heart Disease? Read this next. What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Heart Attacks in Women?

READ MORE. Medically reviewed by Gerhard Whitworth, R. Medically reviewed by Debra Sullivan, Ph. Medically reviewed by University of Illinois.

: Natural approaches to managing cholesterol

How to lower cholesterol naturally without medication Berberine has also Natural herbal supplement found to be colesterol effective Ntural the cholesterol-lowering drug simvastatin Premium Orange Extract and Natural herbal supplement enhance its Regulating blood glucose when used approaaches. Elevated levels of these compounds increase the risk that cholesterol will become arterial plaque. Peanuts which are technically in the legume family have also failed to demonstrate beneficial effects on cholesterol levels. Eating cold-water fatty fish, such as albacore and tuna, a few times a week can help a person increase their omega-3 intake. Cholesterol supports many essential bodily functions, such as cell membrane formation and hormone production. Price Transparency.
A Holistic Approach to Managing Cholesterol: Looking Beyond the Numbers Guggulsterones are compounds from guggul also known as guggulipid , a gum resin from Commiphora wightii a plant native to India that has been used for centuries as a traditional Ayurvedic medicine to treat a wide range of ailments. NHS Choices. Chronobiol Int ;—7. Natural ways to lower cholesterol without medication. This gel helps to support digestive health and also aids in trapping fats, meaning the body cannot absorb them. Trans fat Triglycerides: Why do they matter?
11 foods that lower cholesterol Sahoo S, Padhy SK, Padhee B, et al. All that said, steak and hamburger can be hard to resist. Lifestyle changes can help improve your cholesterol — and boost the cholesterol-lowering power of medications. Certain medications may also help. See All Magazine Articles.
Natural approaches to managing cholesterol

Natural approaches to managing cholesterol -

How much sleep a person requires changes with age, and research suggests that most adults should aim for 7 or more hours of sleep per night. Other evidence indicates that there is an association between short sleep duration or poor sleep quality with higher cholesterol levels.

However, researchers are still trying to understand how sleep affects cholesterol. Some research suggests that HDL levels are lower in people with insufficient sleep. Whereas other research indicates that too little or too much sleep can result in low HDL levels.

Overall, poor sleep duration and quality appear to negatively impact cholesterol, but it is not clear exactly why or how it does. Therefore, it may be beneficial for general health and cholesterol management for a person to develop good sleep hygiene practices.

Learn more about sleep apnea and high cholesterol here. Smoking can lead to high cholesterol levels as it can reduce the circulating level of HDL. Additionally, the chemicals present in cigarette smoke can cause LDL to become stickier and also damage the lining of blood vessels, making them swollen and inflamed.

As such, smoking can make it difficult to control cholesterol levels and increases the risk of a potential clog in the arteries. By quitting smoking, a person can lower their LDL and increase their HDL cholesterol levels.

This can help to slow the buildup of new fatty deposits in arteries and support overall health. Learn more about quitting smoking here. Regularly drinking water and getting sufficient amounts is extremely important for good health and essential for good liver health.

The liver plays a key role in managing cholesterol levels as it helps to break down cholesterol. If the liver is not able to function correctly then it may cause cholesterol to build up in the body.

A study investigating the role of hydration for metabolic health in older adults found that hydration was associated with higher HDL cholesterol concentrations. This suggests that in addition to being a healthy beverage option, drinking water may help to control cholesterol levels.

Learn more about drinks that may help lower cholesterol here. Cholesterol is a fat-like substance that is present in every cell in the body. Although having too much cholesterol can increase the risk of adverse health effects, the body needs cholesterol to build cell membranes and to produce :.

The liver naturally produces all of the cholesterol that the body needs. However, certain foods contain cholesterol, and other foods can trigger the liver to produce more of it. HDL cholesterol collects LDL cholesterol and other fats from the arteries and transports them back to the liver.

The liver disposes of excess cholesterol by converting it into a digestive fluid called bile. Although people should aim to have more HDL cholesterol than LDL cholesterol, experts recommend that adults keep their blood levels of total cholesterol below milligrams per deciliter. Learn more about cholesterol levels by age here.

Cholesterol supports many essential bodily functions, such as cell membrane formation and hormone production.

People can naturally lower their cholesterol levels by adopting dietary and lifestyle changes. This can include changing the types of fats they eat, consuming soluble fiber, exercising regularly, quitting smoking, maintaining healthy body weight, limiting alcohol intake, and getting enough good-quality sleep.

In this article, we look at a variety of lifestyle changes and natural supplements that help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart…. People with high cholesterol levels may benefit from adopting a low fat diet. Reducing the intake of saturated and trans fats can decrease bad….

If a person has high cholesterol, following a diet low in saturated fat, cholesterol, and processed foods may help reduce levels. Learn more. The "good" type of cholesterol is high-density lipoprotein HDL cholesterol. Learn why it is beneficial and how to increase HDL levels.

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Ezetimibe Zetia is one CAI drug that people may take. PCSK9 inhibitors work in the liver to lower LDL cholesterol. They do this by binding to the PCSK9 protein.

While these drugs may effectively lower cholesterol, it is unclear whether they reduce the risk of dying from heart disease.

Some people using these drugs get joint pain, nausea, or flu -like symptoms. Examples include evolocumab Repatha and alirocumab Praluent. Resins , which doctors sometimes call bile acid-binding drugs, help the intestines eliminate more cholesterol during digestion.

Cholesterol makes bile. Resins attach to bile during digestion, causing the liver to produce more bile and, therefore, use up more cholesterol. Colestipol Colestid and colesevelam Welcol are both resins.

As with other cholesterol drugs that are not statins, it is not clear whether resins reduce the risk of death from heart disease. The most common side effects of resins are digestive problems, such as heartburn and diarrhea. Fibrates can lower triglycerides and increase HDL cholesterol.

However, they are not effective in lowering LDL cholesterol. Clofibrate Atromid and gemfibrozil Lopid are prescription fibrates. Niacin , or vitamin B-3, works in the liver, and it may reduce blood fats. Although it is possible to take an over-the-counter OTC niacin supplement, the most effective option is a prescription form of the medicine.

High doses of niacin may damage the liver. The nutrient can also cause itching, flushing, and stomach pain. OTC niacin supplements are available for purchase here. Omega-3 fatty acids, such as those present in fish oil , may lower the risk of heart disease, stroke, and heart attack.

They may do this by reducing the secretion of triglycerides or helping the body remove excess cholesterol. Eating cold-water fatty fish, such as albacore and tuna, a few times a week can help a person increase their omega-3 intake. Omega-3 supplements may also help.

However, omega-3 supplements can sometimes cause bleeding, most notably in people on blood thinners or with bleeding disorders. In some cases, a doctor may recommend a type of prescription omega-3 called omegaacid ethyl esters.

Omega-3 supplements are available for purchase here. Plant chemicals called sterols and stanols may help fight cholesterol and lower the risk of cardiovascular disease. Soybeans, margarine, and orange juice products that include sterols and stanols on their ingredients label are good sources.

Soluble fiber can also help lower cholesterol. Many vegetables and fruits, including apples, bananas , plums, and prunes, are rich in soluble fiber. Soluble fiber supplements are available for purchase here. Drugs and supplements are not the only options for lowering cholesterol.

People may also benefit from making the following lifestyle changes :. Because there is variability in quality from manufacturer, the amount of monacolin K can vary widely from product to product. Products that contain monacolin K can cause the same types of side effects as lovastatin, which include damage to the muscles, kidneys and liver.

In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration has ruled that dietary supplements that contain more than trace amounts of monacolin K are unapproved drugs and can't be sold legally as dietary supplements.

While dietary supplements can help, you might also need prescription medications to get your cholesterol numbers to a safe level. Be sure to tell your doctor if you take any type of dietary supplement, because some can interact with medications you may be taking.

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Cholesterol-lowering supplements may be helpful. Products and services. Cholesterol-lowering supplements may be helpful Diet and exercise are proven ways to reduce cholesterol.

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Show references Cholesterol management at a glance. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. Accessed Dec. Tangney CT, et al. Lipid management with diet or dietary supplements. Natural Medicines. Fish oil.

We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy NNatural links Natural approaches to managing cholesterol this page, we Tk earn a small Functional training programs. Medical News Today cholesteerol shows you brands and products that we stand behind. Many lifestyle strategies that lower cholesterol can also improve other measures of health, such as body weight. Certain medications may also help. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention CDC95 million people aged 20 and over in the United States have elevated total cholesterol levels.

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Natural Remedy for Cholesterol and Triglycerides: Only 3 Ingredients!

Natural approaches to managing cholesterol -

Other causes can include physical inactivity, diabetes, stress and hypothyroidism. But keep in mind that not all cholesterol is created equally. So how can cut down on your levels of LDL cholesterol down while increasing HDL cholesterol to keep your heart in tip-top shape?

Here are some simple ways for how to lower LDL cholesterol and total cholesterol to promote better heart health. Simply incorporating a few servings of foods that lower cholesterol in your diet per day can help decrease cholesterol levels and high triglycerides to optimize the health of your heart.

Here are a few of the top cholesterol-lowering foods that you may want to consider stocking up on:. Cleaning up your diet is one of the most effective ways to reduce your LDL levels and enhance heart health. Instead, focus on nixing these foods from your diet as a simple method for how to lower cholesterol:.

Although a glass of red wine per day can actually be beneficial for heart health, heavy drinking of alcohol can have detrimental effects on cholesterol levels. Keep alcohol consumption in moderation by sticking to 1—2 servings per day to help optimize heart health.

Overdoing it on the caffeinated beverages like coffee, soda or energy drinks may cause an increase in cholesterol levels for some people. Limit coffee and tea to 1—2 cups daily to keep cholesterol in check.

While switching up your diet is often an effective method for reducing cholesterol levels all on its own, adding a few cholesterol-lowering supplements can boost the effects even more.

Here are some of the supplements you can try using to get started:. When it comes to reducing cholesterol levels, getting in plenty of physical activity is just as essential as making modifications to your diet. There are two types of exercise that can make a big impact on heart health.

Aerobic exercise, or cardio workouts, is a form of exercise that helps strengthen your heart and lungs. And besides keeping you trim, studies show that aerobic exercise can also help lower cholesterol levels. Meanwhile, resistance training is a form of physical activity that forces your muscles to contract, building up strength and endurance.

Some research also shows that resistance training could have beneficial effects on heart health as well and may decrease total and LDL cholesterol. Weight lifting and bodyweight exercises like squats or lunges are some examples of resistance training that you can add to your routine.

Although these are all effective methods for how to lower cholesterol levels, keep in mind that they should be combined and paired with other healthy habits to maximize their effectiveness. The cholesterol-lowering effects of a healthy diet, for example, can be amplified when coupled with regular exercise and a set sleep schedule.

Be sure to consult with your doctor before beginning any form of supplementation, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are currently taking any medications.

Popular Posts All Time This Week {position} Detox Your Liver: A 6-Step Liver Cleanse. More Health Dr. Axe on Facebook Dr. Axe on Twitter 70 Dr. Axe on Instagram Dr. Diets high in legume and whole-grain fiber especially barley and oat have been found in multiple studies to be associated with lower LDL-cholesterol levels.

A meta-analysis of findings from 58 randomized controlled trials found beta-glucan from oats can reduce LDL- and non-HDL-cholesterol levels. Furthermore, a growing body of evidence shows increasing dietary fiber intake, by increasing whole grains or adding psyllium husk for example, can enhance the effectiveness of widely used cholesterol-lowering drugs called statins.

The recommended daily allowance RDA for total dietary fiber is 38 grams in healthy adult men up to age 50 and 25 grams in healthy adult women up to age 50, but most Americans do not consume this amount. In fact, the average daily fiber intake in —16 among US adults was found to be Soybeans are high in phytosterols and viscous soluble fiber, and have a relatively low ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids, all of which may contribute to their cholesterol-lowering effects.

Furthermore, soy protein fractions have been found to reduce dietary cholesterol absorption and cholesterol production by the liver. Soy proteins also decrease bile acid resorption, increasing the utilization of cholesterol to manufacture new bile acids.

Preclinical and clinical trials show replacing animal protein with soy protein, and other plant-sourced proteins, substantially lowers total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, and non-HDL-cholesterol levels.

While coffee consumption has been associated with decreased risks of cardiovascular disease , obesity , and diabetes , drinking coffee prepared without the use of a paper filter has been strongly linked to negative impacts on lipid profiles, including elevation of total and LDL-cholesterol levels.

Regular light to moderate alcohol consumption is associated with increased HDL-cholesterol levels and decreased risk of atherosclerosis.

Light to moderate alcohol intake is defined as a maximum of two drinks per day for men and one drink per day for women, with a drink being 12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine, or 1. While diets associated with lower cholesterol levels and cardiovascular risk are often inherently low in cholesterol, dietary cholesterol intake has not been correlated with cholesterol levels, and reducing cholesterol intake has not been shown to be an effective way to reduce high cholesterol levels.

Saturated fats are mainly found in animal foods, but coconut and palm oils are also rich sources. Higher intakes of saturated fatty acids appear to be associated with higher combined risk of heart disease and stroke.

The saturated fatty acids in coconut and palm oil differ from those in animal fat such as butter, and some clinical trials have found coconut oil has less negative impact on cholesterol metabolism than butter. Trans fats are polyunsaturated fats that have been subjected to partial hydrogenation to increase their solid phase temperature range.

Partially hydrogenated oils are used to make highly processed fat products such as shortening and margarine. Trans fats are also generated naturally as polyunsaturated fatty acids age but are found only in small amounts in unprocessed fats and oils. Trans fats are closely associated with cardiovascular disease and have been found to increase cholesterol synthesis in the liver.

While there is no way to predict whether a vitamin, mineral, or herb will successfully treat or prevent associated health conditions, our unique ratings tell you how well these supplements are understood by some in the medical community, and whether studies have found them to be effective for other people.

For over a decade, our team has combed through thousands of research articles published in reputable journals. To help you make educated decisions, and to better understand controversial or confusing supplements, our medical experts have digested the science into these three easy-to-follow ratings.

We hope this provides you with a helpful resource to make informed decisions towards your health and well-being.

For a supplement, little scientific support. Red yeast rice contains a compound called monacolin K also known as lovastatin that reduces production of cholesterol by inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase, a key enzyme in cholesterol synthesis. Multiple clinical trials have shown red yeast rice can effectively lower high total, LDL-, and non-HDL-cholesterol levels.

Lovastatin Mevacor and several of its analogs, collectively called statins, are used as prescription drugs used to treat high cholesterol. However, a typical daily dose of red yeast rice extract provides 10 mg or less monacolin K, while a common dose of lovastatin is 20 to 40 mg per day.

It has been suggested that other compounds, including other monacolins, present in red yeast rice work together with monacolin K to produce a greater cholesterol-lowering effect than would be expected from the small amount of monacolin K alone.

Nevertheless, monacolins in red yeast rice products vary widely and are often not accurately quantified on labels, and red yeast rice has demonstrated a similar adverse side effect profile to lovastatin.

Because HMG-CoA reductase also plays a role in synthesis of coenzyme Q10, an antioxidant needed for mitochondrial energy production, a small amount of coenzyme Q10 is sometimes included in red yeast rice supplements.

A randomized controlled trial comparing a monacolin K-containing red yeast rice product and a monacolin K-free red yeast rice product to placebo found only the monacolin K-containing supplement lowered cholesterol levels.

An uncontrolled clinical trial in 25 subjects with low to moderate cardiovascular risk found supplementing with red yeast rice providing 3 mg monacolin K plus 30 mg of coenzyme Q10 daily for one year reduced total, LDL-, and non-HDL-cholesterol, as well as triglyceride and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein hs-CRP, a marker of vascular inflammation levels.

In addition, vascular characteristics had improved at the end of the trial. In a controlled trial that included participants with high cholesterol levels enrolled in a diet and lifestyle program, those additionally treated with a red yeast rice supplement providing 10 mg monacolin K and 30 mg coenzyme Q10 per day had greater reductions in total and LDL-cholesterol levels, as well as blood pressure, than those receiving no supplements.

Soy supplementation has been shown to lower cholesterol in humans. Soy is available in foods such as tofu, miso, and tempeh and as a supplemental protein powder.

However, supplementation with either soy or non-soy isoflavones from red clover in pill form failed to reduce cholesterol levels in a group of healthy volunteers, suggesting that isoflavone may not be responsible for the cholesterol-lowering effects of soy. Further trials of isoflavone supplements in people with elevated cholesterol, are needed to resolve these conflicting results.

In a study of people with high cholesterol levels, a soy preparation that contained soy protein, soy fiber, and soy phospholipids lowered cholesterol levels more effectively than isolated soy protein.

Calcium can inhibit cholesterol absorption and synthesis, and some research shows calcium supplements can lower high cholesterol levels.

A meta-analysis of results from 22 randomized controlled trials with a total of 4, participants found calcium supplementation, with or without vitamin D, decreased LDL-cholesterol and increased HDL-cholesterol levels, though the effects were small.

In a placebo-controlled trial in 36, women aged 50 years and older, taking 1, mg calcium plus IU vitamin D daily led to a small reduction in LDL-cholesterol levels compared with placebo after six years of monitoring.

However, a two-year placebo-controlled trial in premenopausal and postmenopausal women with high cholesterol levels found long-term supplementation with mg calcium daily increased cholesterol levels and resulted in detrimental changes in carotid artery structure, suggesting increased atherosclerosis in postmenopausal participants, but had no impact on these parameters in premenopausal participants.

Although many studies have examined the relationship between calcium supplementation and cardiovascular outcomes, this topic remains controversial. One recent review of trials and meta-analyses concluded modest calcium supplementation may have a small protective effect against heart attack, stroke, and cardiovascular death, especially in women.

However, a meta-analysis of 13 randomized controlled trials with more than 42, participants found 1, mg per day of supplemental calcium, as well as high dietary calcium intake, can substantially increase cardiovascular risk in healthy postmenopausal women. Yet another large analysis found no cardiovascular benefits or harms from calcium supplementation.

Some research suggests vitamin D may increase the beneficial effects of calcium. In a randomized controlled trial in 45 women with obesity, those who received 1, mg calcium per day plus 50, IU vitamin D per week had greater reduction in cholesterol levels than those who received calcium alone or no supplements after three months.

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Int J Yoga ;— Learn more about TraceGains, the company. The information presented by TraceGains is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies human, animal, or in vitro , clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article.

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High Cholesterol Holistic. About This Condition Take control of your cholesterol to lower your heart disease risk. According to research or other evidence, the following self-care steps may be helpful. Reduce risk with fiber Add whole grains, legumes, fruits, and vegetables to your meals to reduce heart disease risk Add soy protein to your diet 30 grams about 1 ounce a day of powdered soy protein added to food or drinks can help lower cholesterol Check out natural vegetable fats plant sterols and stanols Take 1.

These recommendations are not comprehensive and are not intended to replace the advice of your doctor or pharmacist. Continue reading for more in-depth, fully referenced information. About About This Condition Cholesterol is needed for normal cell membrane function and as a precursor to steroid hormones, bile acids, and vitamin D.

Eating Right The right diet is the key to managing many diseases and to improving general quality of life. For this condition, scientific research has found benefit in the following healthy eating tips.

Recommendation Why Add some olive oil Replacing foods high in trans and saturated fats with foods rich in high-quality polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats, like those in fish, nuts and seeds, and olive oil, can help lower cholesterol levels and reduce cardiovascular risk.

Including specific foods and beverages, such as soy foods, nuts and seeds, fish, garlic, coffee, and alcohol, in your regular diet may improve cholesterol and other lipid levels.

Replacing foods high in trans and saturated fats with foods rich in high-quality polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats, like those in fish, nuts and seeds, and olive oil, can help lower cholesterol levels and reduce cardiovascular risk.

Low-carbohydrate diets appear to slightly increase LDL-cholesterol levels but have positive impacts on HDL-cholesterol and triglyceride levels.

It is unclear how these effects influence cardiovascular outcomes. The DASH eating pattern has been shown to lower LDL-cholesterol levels and improve cardiovascular and metabolic health.

The Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension DASH diet is predominantly plant based, is low in saturated fats and cholesterol, and emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and low-fat dairy products. Although DASH was developed to lower high blood pressure, research has shown adherence to this dietary pattern also lowers non-HDL-cholesterol levels.

One large review of 15 observational studies and 31 controlled trials found the DASH diet lowered LDL-cholesterol levels and improved other cardiovascular and metabolic health parameters. Vegetarian diets are generally rich in soluble fiber, phytosterols, and soy protein, all of which have been shown to lower LDL-cholesterol levels.

A vegetarian diet excludes meat, poultry, and fish, while a vegan diet also excludes eggs and dairy products. These diets are generally low in saturated fat and excess calories and high in heart-protective foods like legumes, soy foods, nuts, seeds, vegetables, fruits, and whole grains.

In addition to soluble fiber, vegetarian and vegan diets are high in phytosterols, plant lipids similar in structure and function to cholesterol. Phytosterols are found in all plant foods but are especially abundant in unrefined vegetable, nut and seed, and olive oils. When consumed in amounts of —3, mg per day, phytosterols have been found to improve lipid profiles by inhibiting dietary cholesterol absorption and stimulating cholesterol excretion.

A large review that included findings from 20 meta-analyses of observational studies and clinical trials determined vegetarian diets were associated with lower total and LDL-cholesterol levels, but had negative impacts on HDL-cholesterol levels and vitamin B12 status. A Mediterranean-style diet has been associated with lower cholesterol levels and better cardiovascular, metabolic, and overall health.

The foundation of the Mediterranean diet is a healthy, plant-based diet, high in whole grains, vegetables and fruits, legumes, and nuts and seeds.

It also includes modest amounts of fish, low-fat dairy products, lean poultry, and red wine, and highlights olive oil as its main fat source.

It is the most studied dietary pattern to date, and has been associated with a wide range of health benefits, including lower risks of heart disease, obesity, type 2 diabetes, and Alzheimer disease.

Adherence to a Mediterranean diet has been shown to be associated with healthy lipid levels and reduced cardiovascular risk. In a large meta-analysis that included data from 57 controlled trials, participants assigned to a Mediterranean eating pattern experienced a reduction in LDL-cholesterol and increase in HDL-cholesterol levels compared with those assigned to other dietary changes or no dietary intervention.

Another meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials found a reduction in LDL-cholesterol levels was maintained after 12 months in subjects receiving a Mediterranean diet intervention, but not those receiving a low-fat, low-carbohydrate, or DASH diet interventions.

The portfolio diet emphasizes four dietary components that lower cholesterol levels: phytosterols, viscous soluble fiber, soy protein, and nuts. Some research suggests this diet can be as effective as a widely used cholesterol-lowering drug.

The goals of the portfolio diet are to consume, per 1, calories of daily energy intake: ~1 gram of plant sterols from a sterol-enriched food ~10 grams of viscous fiber from oats, barley, and psyllium ~22 grams of soy protein from soymilk, tofu, or soy-based meat replacements ~14—22 grams of almonds, other tree nuts, or peanuts In a randomized controlled trial with 46 participants who had high cholesterol levels, a portfolio diet was as effective as lovastatin Mevacor® and more effective than a low saturated fat diet, lowering LDL-cholesterol levels by Eating fiber-rich foods like whole grains, legumes, fruits, and vegetables can help reduce cholesterol levels.

Vegan diets are generally rich in soluble fiber, phytosterols, and soy protein, all of which have been shown to lower LDL-cholesterol levels. Replacing foods high in trans and saturated fats with those rich in high-quality fats, like omega-3 and omega-6 polyunsaturated and omega-9 monounsaturated fatty acids, can help lower cholesterol levels and reduce cardiovascular risk.

Supplements What Are Star Ratings? Artichoke leaf extract has been found to lower total and LDL-cholesterol levels and may increase HDL-cholesterol levels. Artichoke Cynara scolymus leaf extract has been shown to reduce total and LDL-cholesterol levels, as well as triglyceride levels, and this effect may be related to artichoke flavonoids.

A meta-analysis of findings from nine randomized controlled trials with a combined total of participants found artichoke leaf extract reduced total and LDL-cholesterol levels and triglyceride levels, without impacting HDL-cholesterol levels. Nevertheless, in an uncontrolled clinical trial in 20 people with depressed HDL-cholesterol levels and moderately elevated total cholesterol levels, mg of artichoke leaf extract twice daily for 60 days increased HDL-cholesterol levels.

A trial with 92 overweight subjects with mildly elevated cholesterol levels found mg artichoke leaf extract twice daily for eight weeks reduced total and LDL-cholesterol and increased HDL-cholesterol levels compared with placebo.

Another placebo controlled trial with 55 participants found artichoke leaf extract, at mg per day for eight weeks, improved lipid levels as well as glucose metabolism in overweight individuals with high blood glucose levels.

Berberine, a compound found in herbs such as goldenseal, barberry, goldthread, and Oregon grape, has been found to lower total and LDL-cholesterol levels and raise HDL-cholesterol levels.

Berberine, an alkaloid compound found in herbs such as goldenseal , barberry , goldthread, and Oregon grape , has been found to improve lipid profiles in numerous clinical trials. In a meta-analysis of findings from 18 controlled trials, berberine was found to improve multiple aspects of metabolic syndrome: berberine reduced total and LDL-cholesterol levels, increased HDL-cholesterol levels, and improved markers of insulin resistance.

Similarly, a meta-analysis that included data from 16 randomized controlled trials with a total of 2, participants with abnormal lipid profiles found treatment with berberine led to reductions in total and LDL-cholesterol and triglyceride levels, and an increase in HDL-cholesterol levels.

Berberine has also been found to be as effective as the cholesterol-lowering drug simvastatin Zocor and may enhance its effects when used adjunctively. Beta-glucans are a type of soluble fiber that has been shown in multiple clinical trials to lower elevated total and LDL-cholesterol levels.

Beta-glucans are a type of soluble fiber found in oats and barley, and mushrooms, as well as yeasts, bacteria, and algae. Beta-glucans are a key factor in the cholesterol-lowering effect of oats.

As with other soluble fibers, beta-glucans lower circulating cholesterol levels by binding to dietary cholesterol, reducing its absorption, and by altering cholesterol metabolism, partly through effects on the gut microbiome.

A meta-analysis of results from 21 controlled trials that included a combined total of 1, participants with mildly elevated cholesterol levels found supplementing with a minimum of 3 grams per day of beta-glucan for at least three weeks led to reductions in total and LDL-cholesterol levels.

A placebo-controlled crossover trial that had 83 participants with moderately high cholesterol levels found LDL-cholesterol levels dropped More than 50 years of research has shown consumption of sitostanol and beta-sitosterol, plant compounds known as phytosterols, lowers cholesterol levels.

Beta-sitosterol and sitostanol are examples of phytosterols, plant compounds related to cholesterol. Phytosterols reduce dietary cholesterol absorption and alter cholesterol metabolism, and numerous clinical trials and meta-analyses have found dietary and supplemental phytosterols, especially sitosterols and sitostanols, lower cholesterol levels.

In particular, clinical trials using margarine and other foods enriched with highly-absorbable sitostanol esters have noted substantial improvements in lipid profiles with an intake of 2—3 grams of sitostanol esters daily.

Supplementation with beta-sitosterol or sitostanol has also been shown to enhance the cholesterol-lowering effect of statin drugs. In addition to improving lipid levels, beta-sitosterol has demonstrated anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-diabetic, immune-modulating, liver-protective, and anti-anxiety properties that may add to its health-promoting effects.

Chitosan is a fiber-like polysaccharide that has been shown to improve cholesterol levels in a number of clinical trials. The fiber -like polysaccharide chitosan is found in the exoskeletons of insects, crabs, and shrimp, as well as the cell walls of fungi and yeast. Chitosan has properties similar to viscous fibers and is believed to reduce the absorption of dietary cholesterol and inhibit cholesterol synthesis.

In one placebo-controlled trial, subjects with obesity taking 3. Furthermore, chitosan was found to be effective for lowering total and LDL-cholesterol levels in a meta-analysis of 14 randomized controlled trials.

Another meta-analysis included data from 14 randomized controlled trials in subjects with overweight and obesity and found treatment with chitosan, at doses of 1—3 grams per day for an average of 17 weeks, lowered total and LDL-cholesterol levels, increased HDL-cholesterol levels, and reduced triglyceride levels.

Fenugreek seed powder has been found to substantially lower blood levels of total and LDL-cholesterol. Fenugreek Trigonella foenum-graecum seeds contain soluble fiber as well as compounds known as steroidal saponins that inhibit cholesterol production by the liver and accelerate cholesterol breakdown.

A meta-analysis that included findings from 12 placebo-controlled trials found fenugreek lowered total and LDL-cholesterol levels, while another meta-analysis that included 12 randomized controlled trials found fenugreek not only reduced total and LDL-cholesterol but also raised HDL-cholesterol levels.

In one controlled trial, newly diagnosed type 2 diabetic patients were randomly assigned to treatment with 25 grams almost two tablespoons of fenugreek seed powder twice daily or no treatment for one month.

Total cholesterol levels fell Taking garlic can improve cholesterol levels and help prevent heart disease. Numerous randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses have found garlic can reduce total and LDL-cholesterol levels and raise HDL-cholesterol levels. A meta-analysis of 14 randomized controlled trials noted garlic had positive effects on all types of cholesterol levels.

One meta-analysis concluded garlic improved lipid profiles in people with type 2 diabetes after pooling findings from 39 randomized controlled trials.

The majority of clinical trials in these meta-analyses used garlic powder at doses of — mg per day, but some used garlic oil, aged garlic extract, or raw garlic.

In addition to inhibiting cholesterol synthesis in the liver, garlic has been found to reduce oxidation of LDL-cholesterol, lower blood pressure, and decrease the risk of blood clots, lowering the risks of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular events. Glucomannan is a viscous, soluble dietary fiber that has been shown to improve metabolism and reduce LDL-cholesterol and non-HDL-cholesterol levels.

Glucomannan is a viscous, soluble dietary fiber that is derived from konjac root. Clinical trials have shown glucomannan has positive impacts on glucose and lipid metabolism.

green tea extract providing — mg of EGCG daily in smaller divided doses and with food. Green tea has been shown to lower total and LDL-cholesterol levels and improve cardiovascular health.

Though uncommon, liver injury can occur with long-term use of green tea extract or EGCG. Green tea has been shown to lower total and LDL-cholesterol levels in a number of randomized controlled trials.

Some research further shows green tea can lower blood pressure, promote weight loss, and reduce the risk of cardiovascular events.

Its benefits on heart health have largely been attributed to its polyphenols, including catechins such as epigallocatechin gallate EGCG. A meta-analysis of results from 31 randomized controlled trials with a combined total of 3, subjects found green tea supplementation reduced total and LDL-cholesterol levels.

In other large meta-analyses, green tea extract was found to reduce total cholesterol levels, as well as triglyceride levels, in type 2 diabetics, and decrease total and LDL-cholesterol levels in individuals with overweight and obesity.

A research review indicated green tea extract providing — mg of EGCG could induce significant reductions in LDL-cholesterol levels. EGCG, with its powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, has also been linked to reduced risks of atherosclerosis and heart attack.

Pantethine, a byproduct of vitamin B5 metabolism, may help reduce the amount of cholesterol made by the body. Pantethine , a byproduct of vitamin B5 pantothenic acid metabolism with a critical role in converting fatty acids into energy, may reduce cholesterol levels by inhibiting cholesterol synthesis in the body.

Several uncontrolled trials have also found that pantethine, at doses of mg two to four times per day, improved cholesterol levels. A meta-analysis of findings from 28 clinical trials including participants with high cholesterol levels found pantethine, when taken in doses of —1, mg daily, reduced total and LDL-cholesterol levels and increased HDL-cholesterol levels; in addition, the analysis suggested beneficial effects on lipid levels may not be fully realized until 16 weeks of treatment with pantethine.

Common pantothenic acid has not been reported to have any effect on high blood cholesterol. Psyllium husk has been shown to be effective at lowering total and LDL-cholesterol levels.

Psyllium husk is rich in viscous soluble fiber and is used as a supplement to lower high cholesterol levels, as well as improve digestive function. Psyllium has been shown in multiple clinical trials and meta-analyses to lower high total, LDL-, and non-HDL-cholesterol levels.

One meta-analysis included data from 28 randomized controlled trials with a combined total of 1, participants and found psyllium, at doses ranging from about 2.

First of all, Natural herbal supplement is cholesterol? Cholesteril is a Best vitamins for energy, fat-like Narural that our bodies need mangaing build healthy cells. Not all cholesterol approsches Chitosan for cognitive function same. If you have high cholesterol levels, it usually means that you have too much LDL and not enough HDL. High cholesterol levels affect around one in every three Americans. But there are changes you can make today to help lower your LDL and increase your HDL.

Author: JoJogul

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