Let's find out the truth about supplements for cholesterol and triglycerides.

When you see that your cholesterol or triglyceride levels are a little high in your blood, it's normal to feel a little scared. Then you might think, "If you control your diet and exercise, you can quickly reduce this by taking some supplements." Then when you go to a pharmacy or a place that sells vitamins, you probably get confused by seeing all the different types of bottles lined up in rows. So, which of these are really worth paying for? Which ones are useless? Today, let's talk about this.

We try to control cholesterol and triglycerides to reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular disease and the resulting deaths. So every decision we make should help with this goal.

These could be good.

Fish Oil (Fish Oil / Omega-3)

This is something that many people have heard of. Omega-3 fatty acids, especially those that help lower triglyceride levels, are well-known. The American Heart Association even recommends eating oily fish (not fried) at least twice a week. Fish like salmon, herring, mackerel, sardines, and mackerel are rich in omega-3s. Since our bodies cannot make these omega-3s, we must get them from our diet.

But here's something very important . When it comes to omega-3 supplements, which are available over-the-counter at pharmacies without a prescription, they are not properly regulated by the government. That means there is no guarantee of their quality. The results of studies on their benefits are also not very clear.

However, there are prescription omega-3s that are prescribed by a doctor. These are given to people with triglyceride levels much higher than 500 mg/dl. They are reliable because they have been rigorously tested for quality and safety.

Isabgol (Psyllium)

Isabgol is a plant-based product rich in fiber. Fiber is a great way to lower cholesterol. It also helps lower triglyceride and total cholesterol levels, especially in people with Type 2 Diabetes. There is really nothing better than getting fiber from vegetables, fruits, legumes, and whole grains. However, if your cholesterol levels are still high despite a healthy diet, Isabgol can help.

But remember, when you eat too much fiber , you need to drink plenty of water, otherwise conditions like constipation may occur.

Soy Protein Supplements

Soy protein can help lower total cholesterol and LDL (bad) cholesterol levels to some extent. This benefit can also be achieved by replacing animal proteins such as meat and full-fat dairy with soy protein.

The results are mixed - it's hard to say for sure.

Coenzyme Q10

It is a powerful antioxidant. Studies in mice have shown that it can reduce the ability of bad cholesterol (LDL) to stick to blood vessels. However, scientists say more research is needed to confirm whether it has the same effect in humans.

So what's the point? If you're taking a statin to lower your cholesterol and you're experiencing muscle pain as a side effect, there's some evidence that coenzyme Q10 can help relieve that pain. But that's something you should talk to your doctor about and only do on his or her advice.

Garlic

In our country, it is a common belief that garlic lowers cholesterol. Although a few small studies have shown a slight reduction in cholesterol levels, overall, there is still no strong evidence to confirm that garlic is an effective way to lower cholesterol.

Niacin / Vitamin B3)

This B vitamin can increase good cholesterol (HDL) levels and lower bad cholesterol (LDL) and triglyceride levels. However, it should only be used if recommended by your doctor. This is because it can only affect cholesterol in prescription-level doses. Such high doses can cause side effects. That's why it's important to take these under medical supervision.

Red Yeast Rice

This supplement contains the same active ingredient as the cholesterol-lowering statin drugs. For this reason, the FDA in the United States has banned the sale of this as a supplement and classified it as a drug. Because it can have side effects like statin drugs, it needs strict regulation. If you buy this from a store without a prescription, it may not be the real thing. Be very careful if you order online! Because these can also have side effects and adverse reactions (drug interactions) with other drugs, just like real drugs.

Don't expect much from these.

Policosanol

This mixture of sugarcane and beeswax was once touted as a great cholesterol-lowering agent. However, all the research that showed positive results was done by the company that made the product. Later studies by independent researchers showed that it had no benefit.

Simply put, while some supplements may have some benefits, they are never a substitute for the medications prescribed by a doctor.

Don't forget!

Whatever you do, you need to keep these things in mind.

1. Talk to your doctor first: Before you start any supplement or over-the-counter treatment, be sure to talk to your doctor. Some supplements can interact with other medications you're already taking.

2. Keep a list of everything you take: It's a good idea to write down every medication, vitamin, and supplement you take. Or, the next time you see your doctor, bring every bottle and pill you take. That way, he or she can get a clear picture of your overall condition.

3. "Supplements" are just "extras": Remember, there's a reason why these are called "supplements." These are just one part of your treatment plan. They should never be the main treatment. A healthy diet, regular exercise, weight loss, and, if necessary, medication prescribed by your doctor should be the main components of your plan. Supplements are just something to help with all of that.