5 Supplements to Support Healthy Cholesterol Levels*
Understanding Cholesterol Balance
Maintaining cholesterol balance is essential for overall wellness. It is important to distinguish between LDL (often referred to as "bad" cholesterol) and HDL ("good" cholesterol). The goal is to promote a healthy ratio between the two through diet, lifestyle, and the right nutritional support.*
A diet rich in healthy fats from plant-based sources, combined with lifestyle adjustments, may promote healthy cholesterol levels.* Here are five natural ingredients commonly used for cholesterol support.*
Artichoke Extract and Liver Health*
Artichoke (Cynara scolymus) is a flavorful vegetable and a source of cynarin, a bioactive compound known for its potential to support liver function.* Since the liver is involved in cholesterol metabolism, artichoke extract may help maintain bile production, a process associated with cholesterol processing.*
Additionally, artichoke contains luteolin, a flavonoid studied for its potential to support cholesterol metabolism. Some studies suggest that artichoke extract may contribute to maintaining already healthy cholesterol levels.*
How to use it: consider a high-quality artichoke extract supplement, such as Liver Support Formula.
Olive Leaf Extract and Nutritional Support*
Olive leaf extract is derived from the leaves of the olive tree (Olea europaea) and has been traditionally valued for its natural compounds, including oleuropein and hydroxytyrosol. These polyphenols have been studied for their potential to support normal cardiovascular health and overall well-being.*
Research suggests that olive leaf extract may play a role in supporting normal cholesterol metabolism and maintaining an already healthy balance of lipids in the body.* It is often used as part of a balanced lifestyle focused on heart health.*
How to use it: Olive leaf extract is available in supplement form, such as Olive Leaf Extract, which may provide a concentrated source of beneficial polyphenols.*
Psyllium Husk and Fiber Support*
Psyllium is a small plant in the same family as plantain, known for the natural gel-like mucilage found in its seeds. Mucilage is a substance that absorbs water and swells into a sticky substance.
Psyllium husk is a natural source of soluble fiber, which may help support digestive health and cholesterol balance.* The gel-like substance formed by psyllium husk in the digestive tract may help with cholesterol absorption.*
How to use it: a daily serving of 5 grams of psyllium fiber (such as with our Psyllium Husk supplement) can be mixed with water for digestive and cholesterol support.*
Note: those managing blood sugar levels should monitor their intake, as psyllium may influence normal glucose metabolism.*
Phytosterols and Cholesterol Absorption*
Phytosterols are plant-based compounds that share a similar structure with cholesterol. Examples include beta-sitosterol, sitostanol, campesterol, etc. Research indicated that when included as part of a balanced diet, they may help support balanced cholesterol levels by supporting the body’s natural processes.*
Cholesterol is absorbed in the intestine after forming micelles, which are small, transportable molecules.* Due to their structural similarity to cholesterol, phytosterols can take its place in these micelles.* As a result, cholesterol that is not incorporated is naturally removed from the body.*
Phytosterols may also play a role earlier in the process by interacting with micelle formation.* Additionally, they have a low absorption rate in the body and naturally pass through the digestive system after digestion.* Their presence is most effective when combined with a diet that is balanced and low in certain fats.*
How to use it: phytosterols are available in supplement form, such as in our Beta-Sitosterol supplement.
Pantethine and Metabolic Support*
Pantethine is a derivative of vitamin B5 involved in lipid metabolism.* It may play a role in the production of coenzyme A, a molecule essential for fat metabolism, including cholesterol.*
Some research suggests that pantethine may help maintain already healthy cholesterol levels by supporting lipid transport and metabolism.*
How to use it: a typical daily intake is around 600 mg, divided into three doses (see our Pantethine supplement).
Maintaining a healthy balance of cholesterol is an important aspect of overall well-being.* Combining a balanced diet with targeted nutrients can be a beneficial approach to maintaining normal cholesterol levels.*
If you want to explore more, you can check out our inner balance supplements, heart and circulation supplements, blood sugar support supplements, and immune support supplements.*
