Our bodies use cholesterol to build healthy cells. Sometimes too much cholesterol can build up and that can increase the risk of heart attack and stroke. It’s important to try to use vegetable oils such as olive, sunflower, rapeseed, nut and seed oils in your cooking and eat plenty of nuts, seeds, colourful fruit and vegetables and whole grains to keep cholesterol build up low.
There are various supplements available to help you to balance your cholesterol.
Red Yeast Rice contains Monacolin K which contributes to the maintenance of normal blood cholesterol levels. Red Rice Yeast is most commonly taken in the form of a food supplement. It’s a key ingredient in Cardio K, which is marketed as a natural alternative to statins.
Beta-glucan is most commonly purchased at New Leaf in relation to boosting the immune system, but beta-glucan can also contribute to the maintenance of normal blood cholesterol levels. Beta glucan is a type of soluble fiber found naturally in a variety of food sources, such as oats, barley, rye, mushrooms and seaweed. It is also available as a convenient supplement.
Red Rice Yeast and Beta Glucan should not be taken by people already taking cholesterol lowering medication from their doctor.
Other leading supplements such as Zerochol use Plant sterols as their key ingredient. Plant sterols are substances that are similar to cholesterol but are made in plants. According to the British Heart Foundation, If you’re taking statins, it’s fine to use plant sterol products. As they work in different ways to reduce cholesterol this means that the effect can be cumulative. It’s a good idea to mention to your doctor that you have added plant sterols to your diet, as it may affect the dosage of medication required.
Another supplement that is stated to be safe to take alongside statins is Optibac for Cholesterol with friendly bacteria for your gut along with omega 3 alpha-linolenic acid (ala) to support the maintenance of normal blood cholesterol levels and added vitamin b1 to support heart function. Again, talk to your doctor if you are on Statins or other medication.
Call in to New Leaf for a chat with one of the team if you need more advice.