Low density lipoprotein, or LDL, is a complex of cholesterol and protein that functions as a means of transport for cholesterol to move through the bloodstream until it reaches cells that need it for functions such as production of cell membranes, hormone synthesis or manufacture of bile. Often referred to as the bad form of cholesterol, LDL causes trouble when it accumulates in the linings of arteries, leading to the formation of atherosclerotic plaques. A variety of nutritional supplements have shown promise at reducing levels of LDL cholesterol in the blood and thereby potentially reducing your cardiovascular disease risk.
Niacin and Red Yeast Rice
Niacin tops the list of supplements that lower LDL cholesterol, according to Stephen Devries, M.D., author of the book "What Your Doctor May Not Tell You About: Cholesterol." This B-complex vitamin benefits your LDL levels by promoting the conversion of small, dense LDL particles into safer, large LDL molecules, according to the Linus Pauling Institute. Devries also recommends red yeast rice, as stanols and sterols -- compounds derived from some plants and found in foods such as wheat germ, sesame oil and almonds -- decrease absorption of cholesterol in the digestive tract and have few side effects.
Soy
Soy and other phytoestrogen-containing plant foods decrease total and LDL cholesterol levels and triglyceride levels, says Joan Ransley of the Public Health Nutrition Unit of the College of the University of Leeds and co-author of the book "Food and Nutritional Supplements: Their Role in Health and Disease." The Food and Drug Administration has recently granted approval for labeling of soy products to include claims that soy reduces risk for cardiovascular disease. Eat whole soy, as opposed to the isolated isoflavone compounds, advises Ransley. The fiber portion and possibly some other components of soy may contribute to the cholesterol-lowering effects.
Soluble Fiber
Soluble fibers such as those found in psyllium, pectin, guar gum and locust bean gum lower LDL cholesterol safely and effectively, says Lori Smolin, co-author of the book "Nutrition: Science and Applications." Soluble fibers are also found in beans, peas lentils and oat bran. High fiber diets are ideal for cholesterol management, and soluble fiber content of 0.75 g per serving allows food manufacturers to add a heart-healthy claim on their labels.
Carnitine
Carnitine -- a compound formed from the combination of two amino acids -- and the antioxidant coenzyme Q10 showed ability to decrease levels of lipoprotein (a) -- the primary protein component of LDL cholesterol, in a study conducted by the Department of Nutrition and Biochemistry, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, in Iran. The three-month study observed kidney dialysis patients supplemented with carnitine and coenzyme Q10, both individually and in combination. The study was published in the March 2011 issue of the "Iranian Journal of Kidney Disease."
References
- "What Your Doctor May Not Tell You About: Cholesterol"; Stephen Devries; 2007
- Linus Pauling Institute: Niacin; Jane Higdon, Ph.D.; August 2002
- "Food and Nutritional Supplements: Their Role in Health and Disease"; Joan K. Ransley; 2001
- Linus Pauling Institute: Fiber; Jane Higdon, Ph.D.; December 2005
- "Iranian Journal of Kidney Disease"; Effects of Carnitine and Coenzyme Q10 on Lipid Profile and Serum Levels of Lipoprotein(A) in Maintenance Hemodialysis Patients on Statin Therapy; M. Shojaei, et al.; March 2011
- National Health Service: High Cholesterol
