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Cholesterol Reduction Supplements

High cholesterol is an indication that you might be more at risk for heart disease and a host of other problems. Certain medications will help you to lower cholesterol, but medication alone will not nurse you back to health. You need to include more vitamins, herbs, and minerals in your diet. You also need to make some changes in your life. Consult with your doctor about any new supplements you decide to take.

  1. Vitamins and Minerals

    • Take niacin to lower both your overall cholesterol level and your LDL (bad cholesterol) levels. Start with 100 mg a day, and over the course of a few weeks work your way up to 1 to 2 g three times a day. Vitamin C can raise HDL (good cholesterol) levels when combined with fruits and vegetables that are rich in pectin (like tomatoes and potatoes). Take 1 g of vitamin C per day. 500 international units per day of vitamin E can also increase HDL cholesterol. Calcium lowers overall cholesterol when taken in 1 or 2 g per day doses.

    Herbs and Supplements

    • Red yeast rice and gugulipid can lower cholesterol, but you should not use them in combination with prescription medication. If taking prescription medication, you may use garlic for a similar effect. Take two 600-mg capsules of red yeast rice per day, 25 mg of gugulipids three times a day, and 400 mg of garlic per day. Pysllium is a good source of fiber and can help to reduce cholesterol levels. A general increase in fiber in general can also improve your cholesterol. Take 1 Tbsp. of pysllium powder dissolved in water or juice twice per day. Spirulina, a protein-rich form of algae, can reduce total and LDL levels of cholesterol when seven 200-mg tablets are taken after every meal. You can use lemongrass oil liberally in food to lower overall cholesterol levels. The cooking oil stops cholesterol from completing pivotal enzyme reactions. Taking 1/4 oz. of activated charcoal three times a day for four weeks has had good results in lowering LDL levels. It attaches to cholesterol molecules and evacuates them from the body.

    Beyond Supplements

    • Supplements will not do enough for you if your body is in poor health. Losing weight has an immediate positive effect on cholesterol levels, as does decreasing saturated and trans fats in your diet. Eating more fruits, beans, oat bran and carrots, and cutting out fatty meat and eggs can change your cholesterol for the better within just a month or two. Add more relaxation to your day with meditation, yoga, or tai chi, and cut the coffee, tobacco, and alcohol out to make a drastic change. By combining these important supplements with changes in your lifestyle, you will find yourself on the road to a healthier cholesterol level.

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