Other Promising Cholesterol Supplements

Don't discount these up-and-coming pills and powders.

Eight to Watch

You have probably already heard about the cholesterol benefits of fish-oil, red yeast rice extract, guggul, and coenzyme Q₁₀. The information on these supplements are based on a significant body of research. But evidence is also mounting in favor of other supplements that may also prove to help lower cholesterol. While the evidence isn't strong enough yet to recommend taking them regularly, here are eight to keep an eye on. One among them -- calcium -- is a mineral just about everyone should be taking anyway to protect their bones. That evidence is clear!

Dried artichoke extract. Artichokes contain plant chemicals that appear to decrease the amount of cholesterol the liver makes and also help convert cholesterol into less dangerous bile acids. In one German study published in 2000, researchers gave 143 people with high cholesterol either 450-milligram tablets of dried artichoke extract or a placebo for six weeks. Those taking the supplement saw their LDL levels drop an average of 22.9 percent, compared to a 6.3 percent drop for the control group.

Blue-green algae. Blue-green algae, or cyanobacteria, are among the most primitive life forms on Earth. Africans and Native Americans used to store dried algae for year-round use and trade. It is a nutrient-dense food, chock full of valuable amino acids and minerals, including zinc, selenium, and magnesium. It's also rich in antioxidants as well as polyunsaturated fatty acids. Most of the research demonstrating its ability to lower cholesterol has been conducted in animals.

Calcium. As little as 1,000 milligrams of calcium citrate taken daily could lower your LDL level and increase your HDL level ... at least that's what Australian researchers learned during a study that had absolutely nothing to do with cholesterol. The study was designed to assess the effects of calcium on the incidence of bone fractures. A group of 223 women received either calcium citrate or a placebo for one year. Those receiving the calcium saw their cholesterol ratio improve more than those in the placebo group. The main reason for the ratio improvement? An average increase in HDL levels of 7 percent. Then, of course, there is calcium's benefit to your bones, and it also helps regulate blood pressure. So if you're worried about either your bones or your blood pressure (as most people should be) in addition to your cholesterol, you should be taking a calcium supplement. (Most multivitamins don't contain as much as you need.) Postmenopausal women and men over 65 need 1,500 milligrams; everyone else needs 1,000 to 1,200 milligrams. It's best to take it in divided doses twice a day.

Fenugreek. This Indian herb is often used to help nursing mothers produce more breast milk (as well as to flavor curries). According to several studies it may also be effective in lowering cholesterol. In one small study of 20 people, participants dropped their LDL cholesterol an average of 21 percent by mixing 18 grams of fenugreek powder into their food every day.

• Cholesterol
• • Vitamins

• The Essential Multivitamin
• No one should skip this vital supplement
• 
• Fish Oil: A Vital Supplement
• An affordable pill that everyone should take.
• 
• Cholesterol Supplement: Red Yeast Rice Extract
• Nature's statin drug has been used in China for over 1,000 years
• 
• Cholesterol Supplement: Arginine
• This supplement can boost a less than ideal diet.
• 
• Safe Supplementation: Know the Facts
• Before you supplement, read this advice.
• 
• Stress: A Heart Disease Risk Factor on a Par With Smoking and Obesity
• An underlying problem that can have severe physical consequences.
• 

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