Two supplements have been shown to lower dangerously high cholesterol levels
Eating fatty foods, for example, can increase the amount of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. Considered “bad” for you, LDL cholesterol deposits inside the arteries, narrowing the passage of blood. Combined with other fatty material in the blood, LDL cholesterol can stick to artery walls; when a rupture occurs, a person’s life can be threatened.
To clarify, if a plaque of fatty material ruptures in the artery wall, a blood clot will form and heal the injured artery.
If a blood clot blocks blood flow to the brain, a stroke occurs; if blood flow to the heart is prevented, a heart attack occurs.
Although a healthy diet and exercise are key components of lowering cholesterol levels, can dietary supplements also help?
According to Researchomega-3 supplements can help reduce triglycerides and inflammation, thereby reducing a person’s risk of cardiovascular disease.
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What are triglycerides?
Heart UK, a cholesterol charity, explains that triglycerides are a type of fat in the blood.
“They are our main source of energy and are essential for good health,” the charity says.
“But if you have too much in your blood, it can increase your risk of heart disease.”
Triglycerides are a combination of saturated and unsaturated fats, and glycerol is a form of glucose (sugar).
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These fats in the blood are created by the liver, and we get them from our diet.
Foods containing triglycerides include: meat, dairy products, cooking oils and fats.
A cholesterol test can reveal your triglyceride levels; people are advised to aim for a triglyceride level below 2.3 mmol/L without fasting.
“If your doctor has asked you to fast for the test (usually 10-14 hours), then your triglycerides should be below 1.7mmol/L,” adds Heart UK.
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Before taking any cholesterol-lowering supplements, it is advised that you speak with your doctor.
Extremely high cholesterol can be treated with prescribed statins, but lifestyle changes are highly recommended.
To lower your cholesterol levels, the NHS suggests eating more fatty fish, such as mackerel and salmon, and fruit.
It is also desirable to replace cakes and biscuits with, for example, nuts and seeds.
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