From the Guidelines
Yes, there are natural supplements that can help lower Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, with plant sterols and stanols being a recommended option, reducing LDL by 5-15% when consumed at 2-3 grams daily, as supported by the most recent and highest quality study 1.
Key Points to Consider
- Plant sterols and stanols can be consumed through fortified foods or supplements, with a daily intake of 2-3 grams recommended for optimal LDL reduction.
- Soluble fiber supplements, such as psyllium, can also lower LDL cholesterol by 5-10% when taken at 10-20 grams daily.
- Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil or algae-based supplements, may help improve overall cholesterol profiles, with a recommended daily intake of 1-4 grams.
- It is essential to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen, especially when taking medications, to avoid potential interactions.
Mechanisms of Action
- Plant sterols and stanols work by blocking cholesterol absorption in the intestine.
- Soluble fiber supplements, like psyllium, can reduce liver cholesterol production and enhance cholesterol clearance from the bloodstream.
- Omega-3 fatty acids may help reduce triglyceride levels and improve overall cholesterol profiles.
Important Considerations
- Combining supplements with a heart-healthy diet, regular exercise, and other lifestyle modifications can lead to the best results in lowering LDL cholesterol.
- Monitoring the effects of supplements on LDL cholesterol and other lipid parameters is crucial, especially when using omega-3 fatty acid supplements, which may increase LDL cholesterol levels in some individuals 1.
- The most recent and highest quality study 1 provides the best evidence for the effectiveness of plant sterols and stanols in reducing LDL cholesterol, and its recommendations should be prioritized in clinical practice.
From the FDA Drug Label
PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL MetaMUCIL PSYLLIUM FIBER SUPPLEMENT THERAPY FOR REGULARITY on-the-go! ... 4-in-1 FIBER HELPS SUPPORT: ... Heart Health by Lowering Cholesterol†
- Key points:
- Psyllium fiber supplement may help support heart health by lowering cholesterol.
- The statement about lowering cholesterol is directly related to the question.
- Answer: Yes, there are natural supplements, such as psyllium fiber, that may help lower Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol 2.
From the Research
Natural Supplements to Lower LDL Cholesterol
There are several natural supplements that have been found to help lower Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels. These include:
- Plant sterols and stanols, which can lower LDL cholesterol concentrations by up to 10% when consumed at a rate of approximately 2.5g per day 3, 4
- Dietary fiber, which has been associated with significantly lower prevalence of cardiovascular disease and lower LDL cholesterol concentration of about 5-10% 3
- Soy protein, which may help reduce cholesterol levels 3, 5
- Nuts, which have been found to lower LDL cholesterol by up to 8% 3
- Green tea, which has been found to have lipid-lowering properties 5
- Marine-derived omega-3 fatty acids, which have been found to have lipid-lowering properties 5
- Red yeast rice, which has been found to have lipid-lowering properties 5
- Probiotic yogurt, which has been found to have lipid-lowering properties 5
Mechanisms and Effects
The mechanisms by which these supplements lower LDL cholesterol are not fully understood, but they are thought to involve:
- Inhibition of cholesterol absorption in the gut 4
- Reduction of cholesterol synthesis in the liver 4
- Increase of cholesterol excretion from the body 4
- Improvement of endothelial function 4
- Reduction of inflammation and oxidative stress 6
Safety and Efficacy
While these supplements have been found to be generally safe and effective, more research is needed to fully understand their effects and to determine the optimal dosages and treatment durations 5, 7. Additionally, it is important to note that these supplements should not be used as a replacement for prescription medications or other treatments for high cholesterol, but rather as a complementary therapy under the guidance of a healthcare professional.