From the Guidelines
Plant sterols and stanols are the most effective herbal supplements to lower cholesterol levels, with a daily intake of 2 grams reducing LDL cholesterol by 5-15%. According to the study by 1, plant stanols/sterols lower LDL cholesterol levels by up to 15% and are seen as a therapeutic option, in addition to diet and lifestyle modification, for individuals with elevated LDL cholesterol levels. The maximum effects are observed at plant stanol/sterol intakes of 2 g per day.
Some key points to consider when using plant sterols and stanols to lower cholesterol levels include:
- They are currently available in a wide variety of foods, drinks, and soft gel capsules
- The choice of vehicle should be determined by availability and by other considerations, including caloric content
- To sustain LDL cholesterol reductions from these products, individuals need to consume them daily, just as they would use lipid-lowering medication
- Other herbal supplements like soluble fiber, garlic, and green tea extract may also be beneficial in lowering cholesterol levels, but the evidence is not as strong as it is for plant sterols and stanols, as seen in the study by 1
It's essential to note that while these supplements can be effective, they should be used alongside a heart-healthy diet low in saturated fats and regular exercise. Additionally, individuals should consult with a healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen, especially if they're taking medications, as some herbs can interact with prescription drugs. The study by 1 also highlights the importance of considering drug-drug interactions and potential adverse effects when prescribing these supplements.
From the Research
Herbal Supplements to Lower Cholesterol
- Plant sterols and stanols have been shown to effectively lower LDL cholesterol levels in hypercholesterolemic, diabetic, and healthy human volunteers 2.
- The LDL-cholesterol-lowering effect of plant sterols and stanols continues to increase up to intakes of approximately 3 g/d to an average effect of 12% 3.
- Phytosterols, marketed as supplements or functional foods, can be used to control plasma cholesterol concentrations, but their use should be preceded by the assessment of individual characteristics such as cardiovascular risk, lipid profile, and correct understanding of how to use these products 4.
Mechanism of Action
- Plant sterols and stanols exert their hypocholesterolemic effects possibly by interfering with the uptake of both dietary and biliary cholesterol from the intestinal tract 2.
- The use of phytosterols as supplements or functional foods to control LDL cholesterol levels should be optimized by identifying subjects who will most likely benefit from their use 4.
Comparison with Other Treatments
- Statins are the primary treatment for lowering LDL cholesterol, but some patients may not tolerate statin therapy or may require additional LDL-C lowering 5.
- Novel LDL-C-lowering agents, such as monoclonal antibodies to proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9), are being investigated as alternative treatments 5.
- Dietary approaches, including increased consumption of plant sterols/stanols, dietary fibers, and nuts, can also help lower LDL cholesterol levels 6.