Top Supplements to Lower High LDL Cholesterol: Expert Recommendations

To lower high LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol, several supplements have been researched and found to potentially be effective:

1. Niacin (Vitamin B3): Niacin can help lower LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, though it can cause side effects like flushing and itching¹².
2. Plant Stanols and Sterols: These substances help block the absorption of cholesterol in the intestines. Supplements with these compounds can lower LDL cholesterol levels when taken with meals³⁴.
3. Flaxseed: Ground flaxseed may help reduce LDL cholesterol. Flaxseed oil, however, does not have the same effect⁵⁶.
4. Garlic: Garlic supplements may slightly reduce cholesterol levels, but studies have mixed results³⁷.
5. Coenzyme Q10: This supplement has been shown to reduce cholesterol levels and decrease the risk of cardiovascular diseases⁴⁸.
6. Fish Oil (Omega-3 fatty acids): Although fish oil mainly reduces triglycerides, it can also slightly reduce LDL levels. It is beneficial for overall heart health³⁹.
7. Green Tea Extract: Green tea or its extract can contribute to lowering LDL cholesterol levels³⁷.
8. Berberine: This supplement may help reduce LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, although it can cause gastrointestinal side effects³.

It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, particularly since supplements can interact with medications and cause side effects.

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Footnotes

1. Niacin for cholesterol: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia ↩

2. Niacin to improve cholesterol numbers ↩

3. Cholesterol-lowering supplements may be helpful ↩ ↩² ↩³ ↩⁴ ↩⁵

4. How to Lower Cholesterol: MedlinePlus ↩ ↩²

5. Flaxseed and flaxseed oil ↩

6. A scoping review on natural cholesterol lowering supplements ↩

7. The Role of Nutraceutical Supplements in the Treatment of Dyslipidemia ↩ ↩²

8. LDL-cholesterol lowering effect of a new dietary supplement ↩

9. Can eating certain foods help improve your cholesterol levels? ↩