| Bastyr University » Get Smart About Cholesterol | September 9, 2010 |
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Get Smart About CholesterolConcerned about your cholesterol? Instead of immediately taking statin drugs to control it, Dr. Jane Guiltinan, clinical professor at Bastyr and director of the future Women’s Wellness Center for Bastyr University, suggests that the following be tried first. Exercise and a healthy diet are the best ways to keep your cholesterol in a good range. But if you need extra support, some supplements can produce more dramatic results. Always consult a naturopathic physician before taking herbal medicines. Niacin, also known as nicotinic acid, which is a B vitamin, has been shown to increase HDL cholesterol by as much as 29 percent and decrease LDL and triglycerides by 8 percent and 29 percent, respectively. To avoid side effects, which can include flushing, gastrointestinal distress, liver toxicity and hyperglycemia, take no more than 500 mg three times daily. Policosanol, which is an extract from sugar cane, has been shown to lower total cholesterol and LDL levels by as much as 21 percent and 29 percent, respectively, while raising HDL up to 14 percent. Take 10-20 mg daily. Beta glucans, derived from yeast and grains like oats and barley, has also been shown to lower LDL cholesterol. 7.5 grams daily of oatmeal or oat bran will do the trick. Red yeast rice, made from fermented rice, was shown in one study to reduce total cholesterol, LDL and triglycerides in healthy subjects with high cholesterol, as part of a low-fat diet. Since it can cause some of the same side effects as statin drugs, it should be used judiciously. Suggested dose is 1.2 grams twice daily. Garlic has been shown to prevent plaque build up in the arteries. Guiltinan suggests 4,000 micrograms of allicin daily. Omega-3 fatty acid can help block cholesterol synthesis, inhibit its absorption and lower heart-disease risk by reducing triglycerides. The fatty acids come from fish oil, and the American Heart Association recommends at least two servings of fish per week. The suggested dose of Omega 3’s is 1-9 grams daily. Please note: It’s important to work with a knowledgeable health professional such as a licensed naturopathic physician before starting any of these supplements. When taking niacin or red yeast rice, liver enzymes need to be checked regularly, and some supplements such as garlic can cause excessive bleeding if when taken concurrently with other anti-coagulants.
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