Many want to learn how to lower cholesterol with herbal supplements, and this approach can have much to offer. It is necessary to discuss your options with a doctor before adopting this augmentative approach to lowering cholesterol levels. The first step is to establish a need for the herbal supplements or other treatments for the condition.
What is High Cholesterol?
Knowing what high cholesterol is can help pinpoint the problem. Hyperlipidema is the clinical term for high cholesterol, and the condition involves elevated levels of LDL, or “bad” cholesterol. This type of cholesterol is problematic because it can cause hardening of the arteries, and it may be a contributing cause of stroke and heart disease.
The bad cholesterol is found in processed, fried and fatty foods. When a person ingests these types of foods on a regular basis, the LDL can build up in the body, potentially causing blockages and plaque.
Who is at Risk?
People who need to lower cholesterol to promote better health including people who have the following conditions:
• Heart attack survivor
• Diabetics
• Smokers
• Heart disease in family
• Men older than 45 years
• Women older than 55 years
• Hypertension (high blood pressure)
• Low levels of HDL (healthy cholesterol)
These populations are at the greatest risk of developing serious health problems associated with high cholesterol. Keeping levels in check is also important for maintaining health as well.
High Cholesterol Herbal Supplements
Herbal supplements, vitamins and healthy foods can combine to improve levels naturally.
Artichoke Leaf
Artichoke leaf for treating this condition is supported by some clinical research that suggest this approach can work. The extract from the leaf is believed to block the cholesterol in the body. The supplement contains cynarin, an element that increases the liver’s production of bile. This can remove cholesterol from the body. More studies are being conducted to determine the effectiveness of this approach.
Stanols and Sterols
Stanols and sterols naturally develop in some plants and studies suggest that they can keep the body from absorbing too much cholesterol through the intestines. They appear to bond with the cholesterol since they are similar in composition, and move the elements out of the body through the digestive system.
Stanols can be found in some dressings, orange juice, and as and additive in other foods as well as in supplements.
Diet and Vitamins
Diet can offer natural remedies for the health condition as well. Consider increasing your intake of soluble fiber and adding foods with niacin to your menu. Niacin is also available as a supplement and as a prescription, also called B-3 vitamin. Overdose of niacin is dangerous to health so it is important to have a physician monitor this approach.
Your physician should approve any natural approach that you choose to reduce cholesterol levels. Natural remedies for the condition can lead to relief but they can also have damaging side effects, especially when taken in excess. No herbal remedy should replace prescribed medication.
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