Supplements for Reducing Cholesterol Levels: Benefits and Side Effects

To reduce cholesterol levels, various supplements have been studied for their potential benefits. Here are some supplements that have shown promise:

1. Omega-3 Fatty Acids (Fish Oil):

   • Benefits: May reduce triglycerides and possibly improve overall cholesterol levels.
   • Sources: Fish oil supplements.
   • Side Effects: Fishy aftertaste, bad breath, gas, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea; may interact with blood-thinning medications[^1].

2. Niacin (Vitamin B3):

   • Benefits: Can lower LDL (bad cholesterol) and triglycerides and raise HDL (good cholesterol).
   • Considerations: Might not add significant benefits when taken with statins and can cause side effects such as flushing and liver damage[^2].
   • Side Effects: Itching, flushing, potential liver damage[^3].

3. Plant Sterols and Stanols:

   • Benefits: Can reduce LDL cholesterol by blocking its absorption in the intestines.
   • Sources: Supplements, fortified foods like margarine and salad dressings.
   • Side Effects: Diarrhea[^4][^5].

4. Berberine:

   • Benefits: May help lower LDL cholesterol and triglycerides.
   • Side Effects: Diarrhea, constipation, gas, nausea, vomiting; not recommended during pregnancy and breastfeeding[^6].

5. Garlic:

   • Benefits: Studies show mixed results, but some evidence suggests a small reduction in cholesterol.
   • Sources: Garlic supplements.
   • Side Effects: Bad breath, body odor, nausea, vomiting, gas; possible interactions with blood-thinning medications[^7].

6. Flaxseed:

   • Benefits: Ground flaxseed may help lower LDL cholesterol.
   • Sources: Ground flaxseed or flaxseed lignan supplements (not flaxseed oil).
   • Side Effects: Gas, bloating, diarrhea; may interact with blood-thinning medications[^6].

7. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10):

   • Benefits: May lower cholesterol and help mitigate side effects of statin medications.
   • Sources: CoQ10 supplements.
   • Side Effects: Generally well-tolerated but can cause mild stomach upset[^8].

8. Green Tea Extract:

   • Benefits: May reduce LDL cholesterol.
   • Side Effects: Nausea, vomiting, gas, diarrhea; may interact with blood-thinning medications[^6].

Each supplement has its specific effects and potential interactions, so it is important to discuss with a healthcare provider before beginning any new regimen, particularly if you're taking other medications.