Supplements to Lower Cholesterol

Cholesterol is a medical concern for many people. There are countless prescription medicines on the market that can help lower cholesterol to a more desirable range. However, there are supplements and herbs that can naturally bring down cholesterol. Many doctors now look favorably on using these supplements.

Niacin

• Niacin is usually known as vitamin-B 3. Not only does niacin reduce cholesterol levels, it also reduces levels of HDL, or the "good cholesterol."
  These high density lipoproteins take any unneeded body cholesterol and transport it to the liver to be eliminated. About 1.5 milligrams to 3 mg of niacin should be taken each day. However, it is important to ask a pharmacist for flush-free niacin in order to avoid the flushed feeling that often accompanies increased niacin intake.

Policosanol

• Policosanol is made from sugar cane. It works by controlling how the liver breaks down cholesterol and is used to lower LDL cholesterol, or the "bad" cholesterol, while increasing HDL cholesterol. In addition, it can control the amount of cholesterol produced by the liver. Policosanol is usually sold in gel tablet form.

Red Yeast Rice

• Red yeast rice is a food additive and spice often used for coloring. It contains monacolins, which are believed to reduce a body enzyme that triggers increased cholesterol production. Some of the popular medications for cholesterol work in the same fashion as red yeast rice. A popular medication called Lovastatin is actually made from a variety of red yeast.

Flax Seed

• According to an Oklahoma State University study, flax seed oil can lower cholesterol. In the study, a group of women ate muffins containing 38 grams of flax seed oil. After six weeks, the average cholesterol reading was reduced by 6.9 percent. The benefits of flax seed oil come from the monounsaturated fat it contains. This type of fat is processed more efficiently by the body.

Important Concluding Information

• It is never a good idea to treat cholesterol on your own without consulting a doctor first. While some of these herbs and supplements might work for one person, they may not for others. Most claim they will lower cholesterol, but not by how much. Also, some herbs and supplements do not mix well with medication. Always ask your physician before taking supplements or herbs to treat cholesterol.