In the age almost instantaneous, the use of supplements is one practical way that has been chosen. Includes your choice to use a supplement to your cholesterol moves to a smaller number.
In addition to diet and exercise you can do, about whether the most appropriate supplement? Because so many of you can find diet supplements on the market that claim to lower cholesterol. However, most of these claims are not supported by scientific studies. Although not a perfect way, scientific studies are the best way to differentiate the effectiveness of a supplement.
To help you find the right choice supplements, here are some facts about cholesterol-lowering supplements based on scientific studies
1. Artichoke leaf extract
Very few studies looking at effects of artichoke leaf extract with cholesterol. In addition, the findings also vary. A study conducted in 2000 found that those who have total cholesterol in the range has decreased the amount of harmful LDL cholesterol by 23% after using the supplements for 6 weeks artichoke. However, recent studies with similar methods found no measurable effect, either on levels of LDL and HDL cholesterol.
The point, it still needed more evidence to prove the effect of artichoke in lowering cholesterol levels. You should not rely on artichoke supplements in lowering cholesterol levels.
2. Flour or fenugreek seeds (fenugreek)
Several studies conducted in the 1990s found that consumption of high doses of fenugreek seeds can lower total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol. One study even found a decrease of 38%. However, all these studies only a small study.
The point, though a little orange-yellow fruit and is often used as a spice in curries is declared effective in lowering cholesterol, that would still need additional evidence.
3. Soluble fiber
Review the results of a study conducted at Harvard Medical School found that every gram of soluble fiber you eat can lower LDL cholesterol by 2 points. However, it is rather difficult to determine the amount of fiber needed to lower cholesterol levels significantly. Three bowls of oatmeal a day contains only 3 grams of soluble fiber. Moderate use of fiber supplements can cause gastrointestinal effects in the form.
The point, a diet rich in soluble fiber can lower LDL levels, but also accompanied by side effects were.
4. Fish oil
Based on the results of clinical trials, the combination of omega-3, EPA, and DPA was shown to lower triglyceride levels by 10-30% when consumed in relatively high doses (3 grams or more). However, these supplements do not reduce levels of bad LDL cholesterol, and even tend to slightly raise LDL levels.
The point, fish oil can reduce levels of trigiserida (associated with an increased risk of heart disease). However, in most people reduce LDL is usually more important.
5. Garlic
Federal Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality in 2000 reported that the use of garlic (extract, oil or pills) shown to lower LDL and total cholesterol levels, but only temporarily (3 months). In 2007 another study was published in the Archives of Internal Medicine found that the consumption of raw garlic or garlic supplements for 6 months did not produce a measurable effect either on total cholesterol, LDL, HDL, and triglyceride levels.
The point, although the garlic can lower LDL levels for a while, its effect on cholesterol levels is still questionable.
6. Ginseng
Several studies have found that ginseng has a positive effect on cholesterol. However, all these studies are small studies.
The point, although small studies can not be ignored completely, but still not enough evidence to support the use of ginseng in lowering cholesterol levels.
