In today’s health-conscious world, managing cholesterol levels has become a priority for many. High cholesterol, particularly low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, is a silent yet significant risk factor for heart disease. While healthy diets high in soluble fiber and medications for lowering cholesterol are essential, the quest for natural solutions has led many to explore the top supplements to lower cholesterol.
These supplements complement traditional methods, providing an additional line of defense against high cholesterol. Whether you’re aiming for reduced LDL cholesterol or you’re looking to maintain overall heart health, understanding and utilizing the right supplements can be a game-changer in your wellness journey.
There are many supplements available on the market that can help lower your cholesterol and triglycerides and reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease. To help you find the right one for your needs, we’ve rounded up the four best supplements for lowering bad cholesterol. Read on to learn more.
Summary of the Best Cholesterol-Lowering Supplements
- Best Berberine Supplement: Utzy Naturals Berbercol
- Best Nattokinase Supplement: Utzy Naturals Nattokinase
- Most Energizing Supplement: Utzy Naturals Ubiquinol CoQ-10
- Best Omega-3 Supplement: Utzy Naturals Omega-3 Fish Oil
What is Cholesterol?
Cholesterol, a waxy substance found in your blood, plays a crucial role in building healthy cells. However, when cholesterol levels escalate, particularly LDL cholesterol, it becomes a health concern. Known as the “bad” cholesterol, high LDL cholesterol can lead to the buildup of fatty deposits in arteries, increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Contrarily, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol — the “good” cholesterol — helps remove other forms of cholesterol from your bloodstream. Maintaining balanced LDL and HDL cholesterol levels is vital for heart health.
A diet consisting of low-cholesterol foods and plenty of soluble fiber, regular exercise, and in some cases, supplements for lowering cholesterol can help you maintain overall health and reduce your risk of heart disease and heart attack. Supplements, like red yeast rice and fish oil supplements, have gained attention as potential aids to lower LDL cholesterol and manage overall levels of cholesterol effectively.
Best Cholesterol-Lowering Supplements
1. Best Berberine Supplement: Utzy Naturals Berbercol
Why we love it
Featuring a blend of two natural herbs — berberine, and citrus bergamot — Utzy Naturals Berbercol can help you maintain healthy cholesterol and blood sugar levels. Berberine activates the AMPK pathway to stabilize blood sugar levels, while citrus bergamot supports healthy LDL cholesterol levels.
The two work together to provide full-spectrum support and promote healthy weight maintenance. This product offers a unique, two-pronged approach to wellness, making it an ideal choice for holistic cardiovascular care. Plus, it’s sustainably packaged in a recyclable glass bottle.
Pros:
- 90-day money-back guarantee
- Third-party lab tested
- Sustainable, recyclable packaging
- USA-made by a family-owned company
Cons:
- Must order several bottles to qualify for free shipping
Specs:
- Size: 60 capsules/container
- Strength: 300 mg berberine hydrochloride hydrate/serving, 250 mg bergamot orange extract/serving
- Serving Size: 2 capsules
Learn more about Utzy Naturals Berbercol today
2. Best Nattokinase Supplement: Utzy Naturals Nattokinase
Why we love it
Utzy Naturals Nattokinase is an exceptional natural aid for cardiovascular health, particularly for those concerned with improving circulation and lowering high blood pressure. This enzyme may help dissolve blood clots by hydrolyzing fibrin and plasmin substrate. This function is vital for maintaining healthy blood circulation and preventing the abnormal thickening of blood.
As we age, the body’s production of plasmin decreases, making nattokinase’s role in reinforcing plasmin action crucial for those looking to naturally manage hypertension and promote heart health. This potent supplement contains 100 mg in every capsule and comes in easy-to-swallow softgels. It’s packaged in an eco-friendly, recyclable glass bottle.
Pros:
- Convenient, easy-to-take softgel
- Same-day shipping
- Made in the USA
- 90-day money-back guarantee
Cons:
- May not be suitable for those taking blood thinners
Specs:
- Size: 60 capsules/container
- Strength: 100 mg nattokinase/capsule
- Serving Size: 1 capsule
Learn more about Utzy Naturals Nattokinase today
3. Most Energizing Supplement: Utzy Naturals Ubiquinol CoQ-10
Why we love it
Utzy Naturals CoQ-10 harnesses the power of ubiquinol, a highly absorbable form of coenzyme Q10, to rejuvenate energy at the cellular level. It can help to increase the production of ATP, improve stamina, and protect cells against oxidation.
This formulation is especially beneficial for those over 40 or struggling with age-related energy decline. Utzy Naturals Ubiquinol is efficiently absorbed by the body, ensuring quick restoration of CoQ-10 levels. With the company’s commitment to ensuring purity and potency, their Ubiquinol CoQ-10 capsules stand out as reliable and effective energy-boosting supplements.
Pros:
- Made in the USA
- 90-day guarantee
- Fast absorbing
- Manufactured in an NSF-audited facility
Cons:
- Requires consistent usage to see results
Specs:
- Size: 30 capsules/container
- Strength: 100 mg ubiquinol/capsule
- Serving Size: 1 capsule
Learn more about Utzy Naturals Ubiquinol CoQ-10 today
4. Best Omega-3 Supplement: Utzy Naturals Omega-3 Fish Oil
Why we love it
Utzy Naturals Omega-3 Fish Oil represents the pinnacle of natural support for brain, joint, and heart health. Each softgel is packed with premium-grade, molecularly distilled fish oil containing omega-3 fatty acids, including EPA and DHA, which are crucial for brain cell communication and membrane health.
According to the American Heart Association, omega-3 is highly effective at improving blood circulation and maintaining healthy lipid levels in the blood. The ingredients are sourced from small fatty fish caught off the pure shorelines of the Chilean coast to ensure the lowest possible toxin levels. This fish oil excels in supporting joint mobility, potentially reducing morning stiffness by balancing inflammation. The fish oil is presented in its naturally occurring form (triglyceride) for optimal absorption.
Pros:
- Rich in EPA and DHA
- Easy-to-swallow softgels
- 90-day guarantee
- Pleasant, natural lemon flavor
Cons:
- Daily consistency is required for optimal health benefits
Specs:
- Size: 60 capsules/container
- Strength: 800 mg/capsule
- Serving Size: 1 capsule
Learn more about Utzy Naturals Omega-3 Fish Oil today
Brand Benefits
All of the featured supplements are produced by Utzy Naturals—a family-owned, Wisconsin-based company that prides itself on offering safe, effective products to support overall health. Its supplements are manufactured in an NSF-certified facility and third-party tested to ensure strength, purity, potency, and identity.
The company offers a 90-day, money-back guarantee. If you’re unsatisfied with your purchase for any reason, you’ll receive a full refund—no questions asked. Additionally, those who partake in Utzy Naturals’ Subscribe & Save program will enjoy free shipping and a 15% discount. What’s not to love?
How We Picked the Best Cholesterol-Lowering Supplements
When choosing the best supplements to help lower cholesterol, we utilize a meticulous selection process to ensure that each product not only meets but exceeds our standards for efficacy, safety, and quality. In a market flooded with options, we focused on several key criteria to identify supplements that truly stand out in their ability to lower LDL cholesterol and improve overall cholesterol levels.
Price
When purchasing a supplement, it’s essential to balance affordability with quality. We looked for products that offer excellent value for money without compromising on efficacy. Our goal was to find supplements that are accessible to a wide range of budgets, ensuring that more people can manage their cholesterol and triglycerides without straining their budgets.
Ingredient Quality
The quality of ingredients is paramount when choosing supplements to lower cholesterol. We focused on products containing well-researched ingredients known to effectively lower LDL cholesterol. The presence of natural, high-purity ingredients with minimal additives was a top priority to ensure the supplement’s effectiveness and safety.
Lab Testing
Third-party lab testing is critical for verifying the potency, purity, and safety of any supplement. We selected products that undergo rigorous testing to ensure they meet high-quality standards and are free from contaminants. This unbiased testing is essential for confirming that the products are as advertised and are safe for consumption.
Customer Reviews
Customer reviews offer valuable insight into the real-world effectiveness and tolerability of the supplements. We analyzed feedback from actual users, focusing on their experiences regarding changes in cholesterol levels and side effects. Positive reviews and high ratings were key indicators of a product’s reliability and user satisfaction.
How To Find the Best Dietary Supplement for You
Navigating the world of dietary supplements can be overwhelming, especially when your goal is to find a product that aligns with your specific health needs whether you’re aiming to reduce LDL cholesterol, support weight loss, or find the perfect supplements for gut health. To make an informed choice, it’s crucial to consider several key factors that determine the suitability and effectiveness of a supplement.
Potency and Concentration
The potency of a dietary supplement is a critical consideration. It’s essential to understand the strength of the active ingredients, as this impacts the supplement’s effectiveness. For instance, when shopping for supplements for LDL cholesterol, the concentration of active components like red yeast rice matters significantly. A higher potency often means more pronounced effects, but it’s important to balance this with safety and recommended daily values.
Intended Benefits
Identify your health goals. Are you looking for supplements for weight loss, gut health, or to manage high cholesterol? Different supplements target different health issues. For example, red yeast rice is known for its potential to lower triglycerides and reduce LDL, whereas probiotics are more suited for gut health, and plant sterols and garlic supplements are often used for preventing heart disease and promoting overall cardiovascular health. Ensure that the supplement’s intended benefits align with your health goals.
Ingredient Quality and Source
The quality and source of the ingredients in dietary supplements play a crucial role in their efficacy and safety. Natural, high-quality ingredients are generally more effective and have fewer side effects. For instance, when choosing a supplement to reduce triglycerides or lower LDL cholesterol, look for products with clinically proven ingredients like red yeast rice. Similarly, for the digestive system and gut health, the source and strain of probiotics are crucial, and a common source of aid in alleviating symptoms such as upset stomach. Other common ingredients, such as plant sterols and dietary flaxseed, are also considered beneficial.
Compatibility With Diet and Lifestyle
Consider how a supplement fits into your overall diet and lifestyle. If you’re already taking other medications or have dietary restrictions, it’s important to choose supplements that won’t interact adversely with your current regimen. Additionally, consider the ease of incorporating the supplement into your daily routine.
Scientific Backing and Clinical Studies
Research the scientific backing and clinical studies supporting the supplement’s claims. Supplements with well-researched ingredients, such as red yeast rice products for cholesterol management, are more likely to be effective and safe. Look for studies that demonstrate the supplement’s impact on low-density lipoprotein cholesterol or other specific health concerns.
Benefits of Cholesterol-Lowering Supplements
Supplements for lowering cholesterol have gained significant attention for their role in managing cholesterol and reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease. These supplements, including popular choices like red yeast rice products and omega-3 fish oils, offer several health benefits, especially for those struggling to manage their cholesterol through diet and exercise alone. Below are some of the possible benefits of incorporating these supplements into your diet:
Heart Health Support
Supplements containing omega-3 fatty acids are known for their cardiovascular benefits. They help in reducing triglycerides, a type of fat in the blood, and can slightly lower blood pressure, which can contribute to a lower risk of heart attack and stroke. Omega-3 may also help in reducing inflammation throughout the body, preventing damage to your blood vessels that could lead to heart problems.
Lowered LDL and Total Cholesterol
Red yeast rice is particularly notable for its ability to lower LDL cholesterol, often referred to as ‘bad’ cholesterol. By reducing LDL levels, these supplements can decrease the buildup of plaque in the arteries, thus lowering the risk of heart disease. Furthermore, some supplements for reducing cholesterol can also reduce the levels of total cholesterol, contributing to overall heart health.
Enhanced Dietary and Lifestyle Changes
While a healthy diet and regular exercise are the cornerstones of managing cholesterol, supplements may provide additional support and an extra layer of defense against cardiovascular diseases such as peripheral artery disease. For individuals who have made lifestyle changes but are still struggling to reach their goals, adding a supplement like red yeast rice or omega-3 can make a significant difference.
Alternative to Prescription Medications
For some individuals, cholesterol-reducing supplements offer an alternative to prescription medications. These supplements can be an option for those who are unable to tolerate statins due to side effects or interactions with other drugs. It’s important to note that these supplements shouldn’t be used as alternatives to medications unless advised by your physician.
Potential Side Effects of Cholesterol-Lowering Supplements
While cholesterol-reducing supplements can be beneficial, they may also come with potential side effects including:
- Muscle pain or weakness
- Nausea, diarrhea, or constipation
- Liver function changes
- Body odor
- Possible interactions with other medications
- Increased bleeding risk
It’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.
FAQ
How many cholesterol-lowering supplements should I take?
The number of supplements you should take can vary widely based on the specific supplement and individual health needs. Always follow the recommended dosage on the product label or as advised by a healthcare professional.
Can I take dietary supplements with other medication?
Some dietary supplements may interact with medications. Consult with a healthcare provider before combining supplements with prescription or over-the-counter medications to avoid potential interactions.
Can I take dietary supplements in place of cholesterol-lowering medications?
Dietary supplements aren’t intended for use as alternative medicine unless advised by a healthcare provider. Supplements can be taken in combination with medication but aren’t a direct substitute.
In addition to taking supplements, what dietary changes can I make to lower my cholesterol?
When combined with a mindful diet, supplements may help lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels. According to the American Heart Association, the following foods and beverages can help manage cholesterol: foods rich in whole grains such as oats; lean, unprocessed meats; fruits and vegetables including spinach, carrots, berries, and peaches; nuts and legumes; foods low in unsaturated fat; foods high in soluble fiber; and green tea.
Conclusion
The journey to manage cholesterol levels effectively can be significantly aided by the right dietary supplements. Whether it’s red yeast rice, omega-3 fatty acids, or other specialized formulations, these supplements offer a valuable complement to a healthy lifestyle and diet. However, it’s crucial to choose wisely, considering potency, quality, and compatibility with your health needs and existing medications, always in consultation with a healthcare professional.
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