Cholesterol supplements: friend or foe?
Cholesterol supplements: friend or foe?
Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance carried in your bloodstream. Your liver makes most of it, and you also get some from food. Your body needs cholesterol for hormones, vitamin D, and cell membranes, but consistently high levels can contribute to fatty build-up inside artery walls and reduce blood flow.
Your risk of heart disease and heart attack generally increases as LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol rises. A practical first step is to focus on diet and lifestyle habits that support healthy cholesterol balance, then consider targeted cholesterol supplements if you need extra nutritional support alongside your plan.
High cholesterol is best addressed with lifestyle changes such as exercising and a healthy diet, but if you've made these changes and your cholesterol levels remain high, your doctor may recommend medication.
Dietary changes include:
- Reducing fat in the diet, especially saturated fats
- Increasing fruit, vegetables and fibre
- Eating complex carbohydrates
Lifestyle changes include:
- Regular exercise
- Stop smoking
- Maintaining a healthy body weight
- Limiting alcohol
Medicines can help control high blood cholesterol, but they don't cure it. Two common types of cholesterol lowering medications are 'statins' and 'fibrates'. Statins can reduce total cholesterol levels by 30-50%. Fibrates work by lowering LDL and increasing HDL.
Unfortunately statin drugs can cause a variety of side effects, including abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhoea, indigestion, flatulence, nausea, dizziness, muscular pain, headaches and sleep disturbance.
Fortunately, there are natural alternatives available that can support cholesterol levels already within the normal range.
BergaMet - A naturally sourced supplement made from the rare Calabrian Italian bergamot fruit, standardised to contain BPF99 (bergamot polyphenolic extract). This extract may support cardiovascular health by helping maintain healthy inflammation responses, supporting healthy arteries, supporting immune function, and assisting stress resilience. Bergamot polyphenolic extract has clinical trials* exploring cholesterol management and metabolic health. At healthy.co.nz we stock BergaMet Cholesterol Health and BergaMet Pro+ Cardiovascular Health
Red Yeast Rice - Red Yeast Rice is a natural by-product of fermented red rice that supports the body's ability to maintain cholesterol levels already within the normal range. It also supports healthy HDL (good) cholesterol production in the liver and assists the liver and circulatory system to maintain normal healthy functions. You can find out more information about Red Yeast Rice here
Bio-Berberine - Berberine is a natural alkaloid found in plants including Golden Seal and Barberry. Known for its effect on glucose and metabolic markers, berberine has been studied for its ability to support healthy cholesterol metabolism and help limit plaque accumulation. See more on this product here.
Kyolic Garlic - While garlic is more commonly known for immune support, Aged Kyolic Garlic was traditionally used for cardiovascular health and has been studied for its ability to support healthy serum cholesterol levels. Shop Kyolic Garlic here.
Other ingredients to consider are Lecithin, which supports a healthy HDL and LDL cholesterol balance and helps metabolise fat, and Essential Fatty Acids, specifically Omega-3s, as there is evidence to show that omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce triglyceride levels.
We are always happy to help and you have any questions, please feel free to contact us and one of our friendly team will be able to advise you.
*Clinical trial information and links can be provided on request
Frequently asked questions
What are cholesterol supplements?
Cholesterol supplements are nutrients or plant-derived ingredients used to support healthy cholesterol levels already within the normal range. They can work by supporting cholesterol metabolism in the liver, healthy fat transport, or healthy triglyceride processing. Use them alongside diet, exercise, and any guidance from your clinician for best results.
Do cholesterol supplements replace diet and exercise?
No, cholesterol supplements are not a substitute for diet and exercise. Food choices, movement, and weight management provide the foundation for improving cholesterol markers. Supplements are best used as an add-on when you want extra support for your routine.
How long does it take to notice changes in cholesterol levels?
Many people recheck their cholesterol after about 6-12 weeks of consistent changes. That timeframe allows diet, activity, and supplement habits to show up in blood markers. Work with your healthcare professional to decide when to test and what targets matter most for you.
Can I take cholesterol supplements with statins?
Some cholesterol supplements can be used alongside statins, but it depends on the ingredient and your situation. Statins may affect nutrient status for some people, which is why CoQ10 is commonly discussed. Check with your doctor or pharmacist before combining products, especially if you take multiple medicines.
Why is LDL called 'bad' cholesterol and HDL called 'good' cholesterol?
LDL is often called 'bad' because higher LDL is associated with a greater chance of plaque build-up in arteries. HDL is often called 'good' because it helps transport cholesterol away from tissues toward the liver for processing. The most helpful view is to look at your full lipid profile and overall risk factors, not one number alone.
What is bergamot polyphenolic extract used for?
Bergamot polyphenolic extract is studied for cardiovascular and metabolic support, including support for cholesterol management in some research settings. It may help by supporting healthy lipid metabolism and healthy inflammation responses. Choose standardised extracts and use them consistently alongside lifestyle changes.
Are triglycerides the same as cholesterol?
No, triglycerides and cholesterol are different types of blood lipids. Triglycerides are a form of stored energy, while cholesterol is used for structures like cell membranes and hormones. Omega-3 fatty acids are often discussed because they can support healthy triglyceride levels when combined with diet changes.