5 Types Of Cholesterol-Lowering Supplements That Are Good For You

When a special diet and exercise does not work to lower cholesterol, you may need other intake that can help control cholesterol levels. However, the use of cholesterol drugs such as statins usually makes some people feel worried about the side effects it causes. If it were so, cholesterol-lowering supplements could be one of your alternatives in an effort to lower cholesterol levels in the body.


The type of cholesterol-lowering supplement that doctors may recommend


1. Fish oil


Omega-3 levels in fish oil, EPA and DHA, have been shown to reduce triglyceride levels by 30 percent, minimize swelling and blood clotting, and increase good cholesterol (HDL). Studies show that eating simple fish oil about 250 mg per day can reduce the risk of sudden cardiac death.

However, high levels of mercury and pollutants in some types of fish oil also need attention. Choose clinically tested supplements free of heavy metals such as mercury and lead and other environmental toxins, including polychlorinated biphenyl or PCBs.

Side effects: Can cause the tongue to feel an unpleasant sensation, bad breath, vomiting, or diarrhea. In addition, these supplements can also interact negatively with blood-thinning drugs such as warfarin (coumadin, jantoven, and others).

2. Psyllium


Psyllium or better known as Plantago ovata is a plant that only grows in India. However, this herb has long been consumed as a supplement derived from natural dietary fiber sources. This plant is a type of water soluble fiber that can dissolve cholesterol and lower triglycerides and total cholesterol, especially for people with type 2 diabetes. Supplements containing psyllium can be an alternative option to help you lower cholesterol levels in the blood.

Side effects: May cause abdominal bloating due to excess gas, abdominal pain, diarrhea, constipation, or nausea. In addition, this supplement can also reduce the ability of the intestines to absorb some nutrients such as calcium, iron, zinc, and vitamin B12.

3. Niacin


Niacin is a B vitamin supplement that can increase good cholesterol (HDL) and lower bad cholesterol (LDL) by up to 30 percent. This supplement needs to be drunk in large doses for the effect can be felt, ie as much as 1 to 3 grams a day.

Side effects: May cause headache, nausea, vomiting, itching, and redness. In rare cases it can also cause liver damage if consumed in the long run.

4. Sterols and stanols


Both of these compounds are shown to lower bad cholesterol by 9 to 20 percent. The Food and Drug Administration also states that both of these compounds can reduce the risk of heart disease if consumed by 400 mg per dose per day.

Side effects: May cause diarrhea, constipation, nausea, and react negatively on other cholesterol treatments.

5. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)


These compounds belong to a group of powerful antioxidants that are beneficial to heart health by lowering bad cholesterol levels in the body. In addition, CoQ10 can also help lower blood pressure. However, this new study was conducted on mice and still needs further research on whether it works effectively in humans.

If you decide to take cholesterol-lowering supplements as an adjunct treatment, consult your doctor first. Because not all supplements are safe for your body and have the possibility to react negatively to the drugs you are taking.

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