Supplements for High Cholesterol | Treating High Cholesterol Naturally

Supplements for High Cholesterol | Treating High Cholesterol Naturally
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Supplements for High Cholesterol

Niacin

It was in the 1950s when niacin was first described as having cholesterol-lowering activity. Today, it is known to do more than just lower total cholesterol levels. It has been shown to lower bad cholesterol (LDL), Lp(a), triglycerides, and fibrinogen (a protein involved in the clotting of blood) levels and raise good cholesterol (HDL) levels.[1]

In one study, the death rate of individuals treating high cholesterol with niacin supplements was 11% lower than those who received a placebo.[2]

In 1994, a 26 week study was performed at 5 clinics, involving 136 people, to evaluate how niacin compared to lovastatin (a lipid-lowering drug) in safety and efficacy. Lovastatin produced a greater reduction in bad cholesterol levels (26% by week 10, 28% by week 18, and 32% by week 26) than niacin (5%, 16%, 23%). However, niacin provided better overall results (decreasing the chance of developing heart disease). Niacin favored higher in raising good cholesterol levels (20% by week 10, 29% by week 18, and 33% by week 26) than lovastatin (6%, 8%, 7%). Treating high cholesterol with niacin also decreased Lp(a) levels (14% by week 10, 30% by week 18, and 35% by week 26) while lovastatin produced no effects.[3]

A common side effect of niacin that is uncomfortable but harmless when taking large doses is skin flushing. Inositol hexaniacinate, a form of niacin used in Europe, is better tolerated than standard niacin.

Timed-release supplements can prevent flushing by allowing niacin to absorb at a slower pace but it has been shown to be toxic to the liver.

Before treating high cholesterol with niacin, consult with a health care provider and let them know you wish to take niacin. Cholesterol and liver enzymes should be periodically checked.

Niacin can impair blood sugar levels so diabetics need to be monitored closely. People with liver disease or high levels of liver enzymes should not use niacin.

Other Supplements for High Cholesterol

Gugulipid (an extract of the mukul myrrh tree) has been shown to lower total cholesterol levels by 14-27%, lower bad cholesterol levels by 25-35%, lower triglyceride levels by 22-30%, and increase good cholesterol levels by 16-20%.[4-5] Gugulipid is without side effects and is considered safe during pregnancy.

Pantethine has been shown to lower total cholesterol levels by 19%, lower bad cholesterol levels by 21%, lower triglyceride levels by 32%, and increase good cholesterol levels by 23%.[6-7] Pantethine supplements are safe and without side effects in diabetics when taken appropriately.

Vitamin C. It has been shown that the higher vitamin C levels are in the blood, the lower total cholesterol and triglyceride levels are and the higher good cholesterol levels are.[8]

Garlic. Not only can garlic help treat high cholesterol, it helps lower blood pressure. Garlic supplements may be unnecessary if raw garlic is increased in the diet.

References

  • [1] Ann Rev Nutr 11 (1991): 169-87
  • [2] Br Heart J 40 (1978): 1069-1118
  • [3] Arch Intern Med 154 (1994): 1586-95
  • [4] Econ Med Plant Res 5 (1991): 47-82
  • [5] J Assoc Phys India 37 (1989): 321-8
  • [6] Clin Ther 8 (1986): 537-45
  • [7] Atheroscl 50 (1984): 73-83
  • [8] Am J Clin Nutr 60 (1994): 100-5

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