The body needs cholesterol to form cell walls but is able to produce all that it needs on its own. Eating lots of cholesterol-rich foods such as eggs and cheese can raise the level of cholesterol in the blood. Excess cholesterol may form plaques on artery walls, which hinders the flow of blood through the arteries and in turn puts extra pressure on the heart. Certain minerals and natural products might help to lower high cholesterol levels, but don't use them in place of medicines your doctor prescribes. Get medical advice before taking any new supplements.
Vitamin C
The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that vitamin C derived from the diet might help to lower high cholesterol levels, but adds that evidence showing vitamin C supplements have the same effect is lacking. Vitamin C is a water-soluble antioxidant that plays a vital role in protein metabolism and wound healing, and also protects the body from free-radical damage. Vitamin C-rich foods include citrus fruits, red and green peppers, broccoli, cauliflower and spinach.
Policosanol
Policosanol is a by-product of sugar cane production and is used in many Latin American countries as a cholesterol-lowering medicine. It contains a chemical called octacosanol, which according to Mississippi Baptist Health Systems, might help to lower high cholesterol, although evidence to show it is effective is mixed. Policosanol might cause side effects including diarrhea, insomnia and headache. Discuss with your doctor whether taking a policosanol supplement is likely to be beneficial for you.
Calcium
Calcium, one of the most abundant minerals in the body, might help to lower high cholesterol, according to the results of an early clinical study published in the "Archives of Internal Medicine" in December 1992. More up-to-date clinical studies are lacking, although findings from an animal study published in the June 2001 issue of "Nutrition, Metabolism and Cardiovascular Disease" show that calcium may enhance the cholesterol-lowering effects of plant sterols. Dairy products and leafy green vegetables are a rich source of calcium. It is also available as a dietary supplement, but talk to your doctor before taking supplemental calcium.
Considerations
Although calcium, policosanol and vitamin C might be beneficial, don't rely on them alone to lower high cholesterol levels. Don't overlook the benefits of simple lifestyle changes such as reducing your fat intake, doing more exercise and losing any excess weight, as these will also help to lower high cholesterol levels and help to maintain overall good health.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Hypercholesterolemia
- Office of Dietary Supplements: Vitamin C
- Mississippi Baptist Health Systems: Policosanol
- "Archives of Internal Medicine"; Cholesterol-Lowering Effects of Calcium Carbonate in Patients with Mild to Moderate Hypercholesterolemia; L. Bell, et al.; December 1992
- "Nutrition, "Metabolism and Cardiovascular Disease"; Diet Enrichment With Calcium and Magnesium Enhances the Cholesterol-Lowering Effect of Plant Sterols in Obese Zucker Rats; T. Vaskonen, et al.; June 2001
- Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center: Calcium
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