Maryland Doctor Shares 5 Supplements That Help With Ldl Cholesterol Management Psyllium Husk Garlic Extract Omega 3

According to the Cleveland Clinic website, lipoproteins are particles made of lipids (fats) and proteins that carry fats through the bloodstream.

In the case of LDL, particles contain a large amount of cholesterol and a smaller amount of proteins. As such, too much of it places one at a higher risk of a stroke or heart attack.

While a healthy lifestyle is known to keep cholesterol levels in check, some dietary supplements help the process, according to Dr Kunal Sood, a Maryland-based physician in anesthesiology and interventional pain medicine.

Psyllium husk, popularly known as isabgol, is a soluble gel-forming fibre that binds bile acids and reduces cholesterol reabsorption. “Because bile acids are made from cholesterol, the liver pulls more LDL from the bloodstream to replace them,” noted Dr Sood, adding, “Meta-analyses show modest reductions in LDL cholesterol with regular use.”

Plant sterols are natural compounds found in plants that resemble cholesterol and compete with it for absorption in the intestine. According to Dr Sood, “This reduces the amount of cholesterol entering circulation and may increase LDL clearance by the liver. Clinical reviews suggest LDL reductions of roughly five to 15 percent in some individuals.”

Omega-3 fatty acids are healthy fats. They are better established for lowering triglycerides than LDL cholesterol, as per Dr Sood. “They reduce hepatic triglyceride production and improve lipid metabolism, which may help improve the broader cardiometabolic environment even when LDL changes are modest,” noted the physician.

Garlic contains sulfur-containing compounds that may influence cholesterol synthesis and lipid oxidation. “Meta-analyses have found modest reductions in total and LDL cholesterol, although effects vary by preparation and dose,” shared Dr Sood.

Green tea catechins (antioxidants), especially epigallocatechin gallate or EGCG, may reduce cholesterol absorption and increase bile acid excretion. According to Dr Sood, “Studies suggest modest reductions in LDL cholesterol, making green tea a useful supportive habit alongside other lifestyle measures.”

“These supplements may support LDL management, but they are not substitutes for other evidence-based therapies when cardiovascular risk is high,” cautioned the physician. “Discuss with your doctor prior to starting any supplements," he added.

Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.

This report is based on user-generated content from social media. HT.com has not independently verified the claims and does not endorse them.

Debapriya Bhattacharya is a Content Producer at Hindustan Times. He started his career in 2022, working in newsrooms in beats like education, US news, trending stories, and entertainment. In his new role in the lifestyle desk, he seeks to deliver a balanced blend of research-driven reporting and creative storytelling from health and recipes to art and culture. Science, philosophy, food and pop culture are what pump his veins and help bring heart to his stories. Debapriya tries to see out subjects that will allow him and readers to explore new frontiers and improve the quality of life for all. The explorations can be both external and internal, as thoughts seek to be as chaotic as the greater universe. As a citizen of the world, Debapriya has been fascinated by the lives of people across the globe throughout time. His curiosity leads him to explore new linguistic and cultural landscapes to broaden his horizons and deepen his understanding of global narratives. Beyond the newsroom, Debapriya loves to participate in debate and theatre, spaces that he considers to be holy grounds for nuance and self-expression. A graduate from Ashutosh College, University of Calcutta, Debapriya completed his Master's degree from the same university in 2022. An ambiverted bibliophile, he loves his solitude as much as he adores stimulating conversations. And despite his reverence for tech, libraries continue to be his favourite place for research.Read More