The article should focus on natural cholesterol remedies, specifically plant-based dietary supplements (БАДы).
Natural drugs for cholesterol: plant -based dietary supplements
I. Cholesterol: Fundamentals and meaning
1.1 What is cholesterol?
Cholesterol is a fat -like substance that is naturally present in every cell of our body. He plays a key role in various physiological processes, such as:
- Construction of cell membranes: Cholesterol is an important component of cell membranes, ensuring their structural integrity and flexibility. It regulates the permeability of membranes, affecting the transport of substances inside and from the cell.
- Hormone synthesis: Cholesterol serves as a predecessor for the synthesis of steroid hormones, including sex hormones (estrogen, testosterone), adrenal hormones (cortisol, aldosterone) and vitamin D.
- Production of bile acids: The liver uses cholesterol for the production of bile acids, which are necessary for digestion and assimilation of fats in the small intestine.
1.2 Types of cholesterol: HDL, LDL and triglycerides
Cholesterol does not dissolve in the blood, so it is transported in the body in the form of lipoproteins. The main types of lipoproteins associated with cholesterol include:
- High density lipoproteins (HDL): LDL, often called “good” cholesterol, transfer cholesterol from arteries back to the liver, where it can be removed from the body. The high level of HDL is associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular diseases.
- Lipoproteins of low density (LDL): LDL, often called “poor” cholesterol, transfer cholesterol from the liver to the cells of the body. A high level of LDL can lead to cholesterol accumulation in the walls of arteries, forming plaques and increasing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
- Triglycerides: Triglycerides are another type of fat in the blood that is used by the body as a source of energy. A high level of triglycerides, especially in combination with a high level of LDL and a low level of HDL, is also associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases.
1.3 High cholesterol: risks and consequences
Increased cholesterol, especially LDL, poses a serious threat to the health of the cardiovascular system. The main risks and consequences of high cholesterol include:
- Atherosclerosis: The gradual accumulation of cholesterol plaques in the walls of the arteries, narrowing the lumen of blood vessels and complicates the bloodstream. This can lead to coronary heart disease, stroke and other cardiovascular diseases.
- Corny heart (coronary heart disease): Insufficient blood supply to the heart muscle due to narrowing of the coronary arteries caused by atherosclerosis. This can lead to angina pectoris (chest pain) and myocardial infarction (heart attack).
- Stroke: Violation of the blood supply to the brain caused by blockage or rupture of the blood vessel. A stroke can lead to serious neurological disorders, disability and even death.
- Peripheral arterial diseases (PAD): The narrowing of the arteries that feed the legs and arms, which can lead to pain when walking (intermittent chroma), ulcers and, in severe cases, amputation.
1.4 Factors affecting cholesterol levels
Many factors can affect blood cholesterol, including:
- Diet: The use of products with a high content of saturated and trans fats, as well as cholesterol, can increase the level of LDL.
- Genetics: A genetic predisposition plays a significant role in determining the level of cholesterol. Some people have genetic mutations that lead to an increased level of LDL, despite a healthy lifestyle.
- Age: Cholesterol levels usually increase with age.
- Floor: Men usually have a higher level of LDL than women, before menopause.
- Weight: Excess weight and obesity are associated with an increased level of LDL and triglycerides, as well as a reduced level of HDL.
- Physical activity: Insufficient physical activity can help increase the level of LDL and reduce the level of HDL.
- Smoking: Smoking damages the walls of arteries and reduces the level of HDL.
- Medical conditions: Some medical conditions, such as hypothyroidism (reduced thyroid function), diabetes and kidney diseases, can affect cholesterol.
- Medicines: Some drugs, such as corticosteroids and some diuretics, can increase cholesterol.
II. Natural means to reduce cholesterol: review
In addition to changing lifestyle, including diet and physical activity, there are a number of natural products that can help reduce cholesterol. Many of these tools are based on plant components and are available in the form of biologically active additives (dietary supplements).
2.1 dietary changes: the basis of cholesterol decrease
Before considering a dietary supplement, it is important to understand that the diet is a cornerstone to reduce cholesterol. Key changes in nutrition include:
- Reducing the consumption of saturated and trans fats: These fats are contained in large amounts in red meat, treated foods, fried dishes and dairy products with high fat content. Replace them with unsaturated fats, such as olive oil, avocados and nuts.
- Increased consumption of soluble fiber: Soluble fiber binds to cholesterol in the intestines and helps to remove it from the body. Good sources of soluble fiber include oatmeal, apples, pears, legumes and citrus fruits.
- The use of foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids: Omega-3 fatty acids contained in oily fish (salmon, mackerel, sardines) can help reduce triglycerides and improve the health of the cardiovascular system.
- Inclusion in the diet of plant Stanols and sterols: These substances contained in some vegetable oils, nuts and seeds block the absorption of cholesterol in the intestines.
- Consumption of cholesterol consumption: Although the effect of dietary cholesterol on blood cholesterol is less significant than the effect of saturated and trans fats, it is still recommended to moderately limit the consumption of products with a high cholesterol content, such as egg yolks and offal.
2.2 plant -based dietary supplements: an alternative or an addition?
A plant -based dietary supplement can be a useful addition to a healthy lifestyle to reduce cholesterol. However, it is important to remember that they should not replace a full -fledged diet and physical activity. Before you start taking any dietary supplements, you need to consult a doctor in order to verify their safety and effectiveness, as well as avoid possible interactions with other drugs.
III. Plant dietary supplement to reduce cholesterol: detailed review
3.1 Red yeast rice (Red Yeast Rice)
- The mechanism of action: Red yeast rice is a product of rice fermentation with a fungus Monascus. It contains Monacolins, in particular Monacolin K, which has a chemical structure, identical to lovastatin, a drug from a group of statins used to reduce cholesterol. Monacolin inhibits the enzyme GMG-CoA reductase, which plays a key role in the synthesis of cholesterol in the liver.
- Proven effectiveness: Numerous clinical studies have shown that red yeast rice can effectively reduce the level of LDL, total cholesterol and triglycerides. Efficiency can vary depending on the dose of Monacolins in addition.
- Side effects and contraindications: Side effects of red yeast rice are similar to side effects of statins, including muscle pain (myalgia), an increase in the level of liver enzymes and, in rare cases, rabdomyolysis (destruction of muscle tissue). Contraindications include pregnancy, breastfeeding, liver disease and simultaneous intake of statins or other drugs that can interact with monacolins. It is important to choose products of red yeast rice in which the level of citrine, toxic substance formed in the process of fermentation is controlled.
3.2 garlic (Garlic)
- The mechanism of action: Garlic contains many biologically active compounds, including allicin, which is considered the main component responsible for its useful properties. It is believed that garlic reduces cholesterol, inhibiting the synthesis of cholesterol in the liver, improving lipid metabolism and exerting antioxidant effects.
- Proven effectiveness: The results of the efficiency of garlic in a decrease in cholesterol are ambiguous. Some studies have shown that garlic can slightly reduce the level of total cholesterol and LDL, while other studies have not revealed a significant effect. Efficiency can depend on the dose, form of garlic (fresh, powder, extract) and individual characteristics of the body.
- Side effects and contraindications: Garlic is usually well tolerated, but can cause side effects, such as heartburn, belching, unpleasant odor from the mouth and gastrointestinal disorders. Garlic can enhance the effect of anticoagulants, so it should be used with caution to people taking drugs to thin the blood.
3.3 Arthokek (Artichoke)
- The mechanism of action: The artichoke contains zinarin and other phenolic compounds, which are believed to have hepatoprotective and cholesteroling properties. It is believed that the artichoke stimulates the production of bile, which helps to remove cholesterol from the body, and inhibits the synthesis of cholesterol in the liver.
- Proven effectiveness: Several clinical studies have shown that artichoke extract can help reduce the level of total cholesterol and LDL.
- Side effects and contraindications: The artichoke is usually well tolerated, but can cause side effects, such as bloating, gases and diarrhea. Contraindications include diseases of the gallbladder and allergies to the plants of the Astro family (for example, chamomile, calendula).
3.4 Guggul (Guggul)
- The mechanism of action: Guggul is a resin obtained from wood Commiphora hitsgrowing in India. It contains guggulsterones, which are believed to have cholesteroling properties. It is believed that guggulsterones stimulate the function of the thyroid gland, which, in turn, can accelerate cholesterol metabolism.
- Proven effectiveness: The results of guggul efficiency in reduction of cholesterol are ambiguous. Some studies have shown that Guggul can reduce the level of total cholesterol and LDL, while other studies have not revealed a significant effect. It is important to note that some studies have shown that Guggul can actually increase the level of LDL in some people.
- Side effects and contraindications: Guggul can cause side effects, such as headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and skin rash. Guggul can interact with some drugs, including drugs for the thyroid gland, anticoagulants and antiplatelets. Contraindications include pregnancy, breastfeeding and thyroid disease.
3.5 Oats (Oats)
- The mechanism of action: Oats contains beta-glucan, soluble fiber, which binds to cholesterol in the intestines and helps to remove it from the body. Beta-glucan can also slow down sugar in the blood, which can be useful for people with diabetes.
- Proven effectiveness: Numerous studies have shown that oats can help reduce the level of total cholesterol and LDL. The effect is more pronounced when using a sufficient amount of beta-glucan (about 3 grams per day).
- Side effects and contraindications: Oats are usually well tolerated, but can cause bloating and gases in some people, especially with a sharp increase in fiber consumption.
3.6 Plant Stanols and Sterols (Plant Stanols and Sterols)
- The mechanism of action: Plant Stanolas and stero are substances contained in small quantities in some vegetable oils, nuts, seeds and grain. They are structurally similar to cholesterol and block its absorption in the intestines.
- Proven effectiveness: Numerous studies have shown that the use of foods enriched with plant stanolars and sterols (for example, margarines, yogurts, juices) can effectively reduce the level of LDL.
- Side effects and contraindications: Plant Stanolas and stero are usually tolerated well, but may cause insignificant gastrointestinal disorders in some people.
3.7 soy protein (Soy Protein)
- The mechanism of action: It is believed that soy protein reduces the level of cholesterol at the expense of several mechanisms, including an increase in the excretion of bile acids, an improvement in lipid metabolism and the execution of antioxidant effects.
- Proven effectiveness: The results of the efficiency of soybean protein in a decrease in cholesterol are ambiguous. Some studies have shown that the use of soy protein can slightly reduce the level of total cholesterol and LDL, while other studies have not revealed a significant effect.
- Side effects and contraindications: Soy protein is usually well tolerated, but can cause bloating and gases in some people. Some people may have an allergy to So all.
3.8 Niacin (Vitamin B3)
- The mechanism of action: Niacin (nicotinic acid) is a vitamin of group B, which can reduce LDL levels, increase the level of HDLs and reduce triglycerides. It inhibits the release of fatty acids from adipose tissue, which leads to a decrease in the synthesis of triglycerides in the liver.
- Proven effectiveness: Niacin is an effective tool for improving lipid profile. However, high doses of niacin (usually exceeding 1 grams per day) are necessary to achieve a significant effect, and they can cause side effects.
- Side effects and contraindications: Niacin can cause side effects, such as redness of the skin, itching, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and an increase in the level of liver enzymes. Niacin can interact with some drugs, including statins and drugs for the treatment of diabetes. Contraindications include liver diseases, stomach ulcer and pregnancy. Niacin should only be taken under the supervision of a doctor.
3.9 Flax seed (Flaxseed)
- The mechanism of action: Flaxseed is rich in alpha-linolenic acid (Alk), omega-3 fatty acid, as well as fiber and lignans. It is believed that Alk has an anti-inflammatory effect and can improve the health of the cardiovascular system. Fiber can help reduce cholesterol, and Lignans have antioxidant properties.
- Proven effectiveness: Some studies have shown that the use of flaxseed can slightly reduce the level of total cholesterol and LDL.
- Side effects and contraindications: Flaxseed is usually well tolerated, but can cause bloating and gases in some people, especially with a sharp increase in fiber consumption.
IV. Important considerations when choosing and using dietary supplements
4.1 Quality and safety dietary supplement
It is important to choose dietary supplements from reliable manufacturers who adhere to strict quality standards. Make sure that the product has been tested for pollutants and contains the declared amount of active ingredients. Pay attention to the availability of quality certificates such as GMP (good manufacturing practice).
4.2 Dosage and method of application
Always follow the instructions for the dosage and the method of application indicated on the product label or the recommended doctor. Do not exceed the recommended dose, as this can increase the risk of side effects.
4.3 Interaction with other drugs
Some dietary supplements can interact with other drugs that you take. It is important to inform your doctor about all the dietary supplements that you accept in order to avoid potential interactions.
4.4 Individual reaction and effectiveness
The effectiveness of dietary supplements can vary depending on the individual characteristics of the body. Not all people have the same effect from taking the same dietary supplement. It is important to track your lipid profile (level of cholesterol and triglycerides) and consult a doctor to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of dietary supplements.
4.5 Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Some dietary supplements can be unsafe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Consult a doctor before starting to take any dietary supplements if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
V. Integrative approach to cholesterol reduction
A decrease in cholesterol requires an integrated approach, including a change in lifestyle, a diet and, if necessary, intake of dietary supplements. It is important to work with your doctor in order to develop an individual treatment plan that takes into account your needs and risks. Do not rely only on dietary supplements to reduce cholesterol. Focus on healthy nutrition, regular physical activity and other changes in lifestyle, which can improve your health of the cardiovascular system.
VI. Conclusion: Natural means – part of a complex strategy
Natural cholesterol agents presented in the form of a plant -based dietary supplement can be a valuable addition to a healthy lifestyle. However, it is important to remember that they are not a replacement for traditional methods of treatment, such as a change in diet, physical activity and drug therapy prescribed by a doctor. Before you start taking any dietary supplements, you need to consult a doctor in order to make sure their safety and effectiveness, as well as avoid possible interactions with other drugs. An integrative approach that combines a healthy lifestyle and the use of plant dietary supplements under the supervision of a doctor can help achieve optimal lipid profile and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.