Safely Reduce Your Cholesterol: 7 Natural Anti-Cholesterol Supplements
High cholesterol can lead to serious health problems like heart disease and stroke (Zhang et al., 2003). While there are medications to lower cholesterol, according to Ju et al. (2018), some people prefer natural alternatives or cholesterol supplements to help manage their levels safely. In this article, we’ll look at seven popular cholesterol-lowering options, explaining how they work and what you need to know.
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Conclusion
It is important to manage your cholesterol levels, as it may avoid any complications for your heart. Other than using these medications, you may consider making a home-based monitoring of your levels. Using a cholesterol test kit or cholesterol meter routinely makes it easy to track your cholesterol. It is believed that some test kits are accurately the same as the clinical test result (Surabattula et al., 2005). According to Xiang et al. (2019), understanding your cholesterol HDL ratio is also important, as it reveals the balance of good and bad cholesterol in your body.
While medications like Lipitor, Crestor, and Repatha can be effective, they come with pros and cons. Before deciding to get any new treatments, it’s better to consult with your doctor. Figure out what’s the best and safest ways for you to manage your cholesterol and keep your health on track. Work it out together, and may it help you feel your best!
References
- Asia Pacific Cohort Studies Collaboration. (2003). Cholesterol, coronary heart disease, and stroke in the Asia Pacific region. International Journal of Epidemiology, 32(4), 563–572. https://doi.org/10.1093/ije/dyg186
- Ju, A., Hanson, C. S., Banks, E., Korda, R., Craig, J. C., Usherwood, T., MacDonald, P., & Tong, A. (2018). Patient beliefs and attitudes to taking statins: Systematic review of qualitative studies. British Journal of General Practice, 68(671), e408–e419. https://doi.https://doi.org/10.3399/bjgp18X696365 org/10.3399/bjgp18X696365
- Surabattula, D., Harvey, C. M., Rood, J. C., & Aghazadeh, F. (2005). Home cholesterol test kits: Helpful or harmful?. Human Factors and Ergonomics Society, 49(11), 1343–1353. https://doi.org/10.1518/001872005774937495
- Xiang, A. S., & Kingwell, B. A. (2019). Rethinking good cholesterol: A clinicians’ guide to understanding HDL. Personal View, 7(7), 575-582. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijcard.2019.02.014
FAQ
The best natural options to help lower cholesterol include soluble fiber (found in oats, beans, and fruits), omega-3 fatty acids (found in fatty fish like salmon), and plant sterols (found in fortified foods and certain seeds). Regular exercise and a healthy diet can also significantly reduce cholesterol levels.
There are several natural supplements that may help lower cholesterol, such as niacin (vitamin B3), garlic supplements, and red yeast rice. However, it’s important to consult with a doctor before using these, as they can interact with other medications and have side effects.
Foods rich in soluble fiber, such as oats, barley, beans, and fruits, can help lower cholesterol by binding to cholesterol in the digestive tract and removing it from the body. Green tea and omega-3 fatty acids from fish also support healthy cholesterol levels.
Drinks like green tea, apple cider vinegar mixed with water, and plant-based milk (such as almond or soy milk) are known to support heart health and may help lower cholesterol. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day also aids in overall metabolic health.
While no single food or drink will “remove” cholesterol fast, a combination of high-fiber foods, regular exercise, and staying hydrated can help lower cholesterol over time. Soluble fiber (found in oats, beans, and fruits), omega-3s from fish, and cutting down on saturated and trans fats are key strategies for lowering cholesterol.
Yes, ginger has been shown to have cholesterol-lowering effects. Some studies suggest that ginger can help reduce LDL (bad) cholesterol and triglycerides, although it’s more effective as part of an overall healthy lifestyle rather than as a sole remedy.
The best natural remedies for high cholesterol include eating a heart-healthy diet rich in soluble fiber (found in oats, apples, and legumes), consuming omega-3 fatty acids (from fatty fish like salmon), and regular exercise. Supplements like red yeast rice and garlic may also support healthy cholesterol levels.
While massage can improve circulation and reduce stress, there is no direct evidence to suggest that massage can significantly lower cholesterol. However, reducing stress through relaxation techniques like massage may help improve overall cardiovascular health.
Apples are considered one of the top fruits for reducing bad cholesterol. They contain pectin, a type of soluble fiber that helps reduce LDL cholesterol levels. Other fruits like grapes, berries, and avocados are also great for heart health.
Brown rice and other whole grains can be beneficial for cholesterol levels because they are high in fiber, which helps lower LDL cholesterol. However, white rice has little fiber and may not have the same cholesterol-lowering benefits. Whole grains are always a better choice for heart health.
Reviewed by Doctoroncall Panel Doctor.
