Dietary supplements are the mainstays of alternative treatment for
high cholesterol. A variety of root and plant products
are gaining attention in the medical community as potentially effective and
beneficial treatments for this condition. The following table summarizes the
principal alternative medicine therapies aimed at lowering cholesterol.
Alternative treatments for high
cholesterol
Alternative treatment
What it is
Side effects
Support
Psyllium
Fiber found in outer coverings of
fleawort and plantago seeds
Ingredient in some dietary supplements
(for example, Metamucil)
Increased bowel movements
FDA-approved and regulated as associated with
decreased risk of coronary artery disease (CAD)
Red yeast
Yeast indigenous to
China
Contains a natural form of lovastatin, a common prescription
cholesterol-lowering drug
Commonly found in red yeast rice
Excessive quantities can lead to dangerously low
levels of cholesterol
Heber D, et al. (1999). Cholesterol-lowering effects of a
proprietary Chinese red-yeast-rice dietary supplement. American
Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 69(2): 231–236
Sterol
or stanol
esters
Naturally occurring compound, found in
plant extract
Therapeutic ingredient in cholesterol-lowering
margarine spreads
None, when taken as prescribed
FDA-approved
Psyllium: Doctors are not entirely sure how
psyllium works to improve cholesterol levels. It is believed that psyllium
reduces the ability of the small intestine to absorb cholesterol, and therefore
the amount of cholesterol that enters your blood is reduced.
Red yeast: The natural equivalent of
lovastatin in red yeast, called monacolin K (mevinolin), decreases cholesterol
levels by inhibiting cholesterol production in the liver. Although red yeast is
potentially very effective in lowering cholesterol, many experts urge caution
when eating it. Despite the therapeutic effects of red yeast, there is
currently no way to guarantee its safety by ensuring a safe dose.
Some people who have eaten large quantities of red yeast rice have
experienced dangerously low levels of cholesterol (hypocholesterolemia). A
better alternative may be to take dietary supplements that contain the
beneficial components of red yeast. Several companies are selling red yeast
derivatives called Cholestin. It is extremely important that you talk with your
doctor before taking such supplements because they could potentially cause
dangerous side effects. Do not take these supplements if you
are taking statins. Dangerous side effects may result from the
combination.
Sterol esters: Sterol esters may lower
LDL cholesterol levels by blocking receptors in the
small intestine that are responsible for absorbing dietary cholesterol. Sterol
and stanol esters are the active ingredient in cholesterol-lowering margarine
spreads, such as Take Control and Benecol.
Regardless of whether you start a new alternative treatment, you
must continue your diet, exercise, and prescription medicines. As with any new
form of treatment, you should consult your doctor first.
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information. For more information, click here.
