From the Guidelines
Bergamot extract may be considered a complementary approach to cholesterol management, but its efficacy and safety are not well established, and it should not replace established cholesterol medications. Current outcomes data suggests bergamot may reduce total cholesterol by 12-31% and LDL cholesterol by 15-39%, while potentially increasing HDL cholesterol by 20-40% 1. However, most studies have been small, short-term, and lack robust clinical outcomes data on cardiovascular events or mortality. The extract appears to work by inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase (similar to statins) and ACAT, while activating AMPK pathways. Typical dosing ranges from 500-1500mg daily of bergamot extract (standardized to 25-40% flavonoids), taken for at least 30 days to see effects.
Some key points to consider when using bergamot for cholesterol management include:
- Bergamot may interact with certain drugs metabolized by CYP3A4 enzymes, similar to grapefruit juice interactions 1.
- Side effects are generally mild and may include heartburn or digestive discomfort.
- Bergamot should be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider, especially if taking other medications.
- Lifestyle modifications, such as dietary changes and increased physical activity, are also important for managing cholesterol levels 1.
It is essential to note that the use of bergamot for cholesterol management is not a replacement for established treatments, and patients should consult with their healthcare provider before using it. The healthcare provider can help determine the best course of treatment and monitor the patient's progress.
In terms of future research, there is a need for more studies on the efficacy and safety of bergamot for cholesterol management, particularly in the context of cardiovascular events and mortality 1. Additionally, more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms by which bergamot affects cholesterol levels and to determine the optimal dosing and duration of treatment.
From the Research
Bergamot Efficacy for Cholesterol Management
- Bergamot has been shown to be effective in reducing total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol in patients with hypercholesterolemia 2, 3, 4, 5.
- The lipid-lowering activity of bergamot is attributed to its high content of flavonoids, including neoeriocitrin, neohesperidin, and naringin 2, 6, 5.
- Bergamot extract has been found to reduce plasma lipids, atherogenic small dense LDL, and subclinical atherosclerosis in subjects with moderate hypercholesterolemia 5.
- The mechanisms of action of bergamot include inhibiting cholesterol synthesis and absorption, as well as downregulating the expression of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A reductase (HMGCR) 6.
Clinical Trials and Studies
- Multiple clinical trials have demonstrated the efficacy and safety of bergamot in reducing total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol in patients with hypercholesterolemia 2, 3, 4, 5.
- A 6-month prospective study found that bergamot extract supplementation significantly reduced plasma lipids and improved the lipoprotein profile in dyslipidemic subjects 5.
- In vitro mechanistic studies have provided evidence that polyphenols from bergamot can alter the function of AMPK and pancreatic cholesterol ester hydrolase (pCEH) 2.
Potential Benefits and Applications
- Bergamot may be a useful adjunct or alternative to traditional lipid-lowering therapies, particularly for patients who experience statin-induced side effects or prefer nutraceutical approaches 3, 4.
- The use of bergamot extract may help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease by lowering LDL cholesterol and improving the lipoprotein profile 3, 5.
- Further studies are needed to confirm the benefits of bergamot in dyslipidemic and other cardiometabolic disorders 2, 4.