***Using Cholesterol Supplements to Benefit a Healthy Diet

The body needs cholesterol to function properly, but too much of it can be bad for one’s health. High levels of cholesterol can contribute to the development of heart disease or lead to a stroke. Unfortunately, many people have inactive lifestyles and unhealthy eating habits which result in cholesterol problems. Heart disease is the number one cause of death in America, so paying attention to and controlling one’s cholesterol is important.

Differences in Cholesterol

There are two basic types of cholesterol. Low density lipoproteins (LDLs) are what many refer to as “bad” cholesterol. It builds up on the walls of arteries, clogging them, making them less flexible and narrowing the passage. If blood clots form, they may get caught in these areas and clog the arteries, leading to a heart attack or stroke.

High density lipoproteins (HDLs) are the “good” kind of cholesterol. HDLs work to remove other cholesterol from the body. Having enough HDL in one’s diet helps to prevent the negative effects of LDLs.

Forming a Cholesterol Reduction Plan

The key factors in leading a cholesterol-healthy life consist of maintaining a proper diet, getting regular exercise and removing unhealthy lifestyle habits. Excessive weight also contributes to cholesterol levels, so keeping a proper weight is necessary as well.

A cholesterol-reducing diet hinges on the basic idea of raising HDL levels and lowering LDL levels. Trans-fats, saturated fats and other foods high in cholesterol should be eliminated or limited. One should make sure to have a properly balanced diet, with plenty of needed nutrients. Whole grains, fruits, vegetables and foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids all help control cholesterol levels.

Regular exercise not only reduces weight, but also promotes the natural production of HDL within the body. Unhealthy habits, such as smoking, will hinder this natural HDL production, as well as raising blood pressure. Alcohol consumption has been shown to help with cholesterol levels, though only when limited to a drink or two a day.

Using Cholesterol Supplements

Cholesterol supplements are used either preventively or to aid in dealing with existing high-cholesterol problems. Combined with the proper diet and exercise, supplements are a great way to help maximize the reduction of cholesterol and improve overall health. Though for some, such as those with a genetic disposition towards cholesterol problems, diet and exercise may not be enough to manage their levels. The main ways in which supplements work to help with cholesterol issues involve working to lower LDL levels, raising HDL levels and by inhibiting the body’s ability to absorb fats.

Popular Cholesterol Supplements

Supplements can be composed of many things. There are several substances which have been found to benefit cholesterol levels in the body. Some of the most popular of these ingredients, and how they affect the body, are:

• Policosanol – reduces LDL
• Ginseng – lowers LDL and increases HDL
• Green Tea Extract – reduces absorption in the digestive tract and increases the rate of excretion
• Guggulsterones – metabolizes LDL to reduce levels
• Flaxseed – lowers LDL levels
• Fish Oil – lowers triglyceride levels
• Vitamin B3 / Niacin – lowers LDL and increases HDL
• Soluble Fiber – binds with cholesterol to help remove it from the body
• Plant Sterols and Stanols – blocks cholesterol absorption in the intestines

There are a great many cholesterol supplements on the market, so making sure to find the proper one is important. Consider a single supplement that combines many of the above mentioned ingredients with adequate daily recommended amounts. One should always check the research that has been done on a product to find if it is truly what it claims to be. Also, before taking any supplement, one should consult with their doctor to make sure that preexisting health conditions or current medications will not interact in a negative way.