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for Heart Health and Longevity
When it comes to maintaining good heart health, it is important to know what works and what doesn’t when it comes to cholesterol-lowering supplements. While these supplements can help reduce cholesterol levels, they also can sometimes carry negative side effects and interactions with other medications.
What Are Cholesterol-Lowering Supplements?
Cholesterol-lowering supplements, sometimes referred to as “statin pills,” are medications or other dietary supplements that can help to reduce cholesterol levels. These supplements are commonly used to lower LDL (bad) cholesterol, reduce the risk of stroke and heart attack, and improve overall cardiovascular health.
Which Supplements Work?
The most effective cholesterol-lowering supplements are those containing statin drugs. These drugs are powerful medications that have been clinically shown to reduce LDL cholesterol levels by as much as 47-59%. In addition, these medications have been found to reduce the risk of stroke, heart attack, and other cardiovascular diseases.
Other Cholesterol-Lowering Supplements
In addition to statin drugs, there are other cholesterol-lowering supplements that may offer some benefits. Supplements such as Vitamin B3 (niacin), soluble fibers like oat bran and psyllium, garlic extract, and plant-based sterols have all been found to help reduce LDL cholesterol levels. However, these supplements are not as powerful as statin drugs and should be used in combination with lifestyle changes like diet and exercise for maximum benefit.
What Doesn’t Work?
Although there are many supplements marketed as cholesterol-lowering remedies, some have not been found to offer any real benefits. Supplements such as soy proteins and red yeast rice may have some cholesterol-lowering properties, but the effects are not as dramatic as those seen with statin drugs. In addition, some supplements may even be harmful: fish oil supplements have been found to increase triglyceride levels, while garcinia cambogia has been linked to liver damage.
Final Thoughts
Cholesterol-lowering supplements can be a useful tool in helping to reduce LDL cholesterol levels and promote better heart health. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen to ensure safety and determine which supplement is right for you.
