Americans Making Progress in Lowering Cholesterol, but Challenges Remain
By Marc Lallanilla
Oct. 5, 2023, 6:28 p.m. ET
There’s good news on cholesterol: Americans have been doing an admirable job of lowering our overall levels of the artery-clogger. Between 2005 and 2016, the average level of “bad” LDL cholesterol dropped 21 points among people taking cholesterol medications.
But before you bust out the sausage-and-cheese biscuits, note that nearly 25 million US adults still have total cholesterol levels above the safe limit — and about 7% of children and teenagers also have high total cholesterol, too. That leaves them at high risk for heart attacks, stroke, and heart disease.
In addition to prescription medications — including statins, bile acid sequestrants, and others — there are some supplements that may help lower cholesterol levels.
Red yeast rice is an herbal supplement that combines rice with a type of yeast that grows on rice plants. The mixture, used in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years, contains a powerful statin known as monacolin K. As it turns out, monacolin K is “a chemical identical to the active ingredient in cholesterol-lowering statins. This compound can effectively reduce LDL cholesterol and lower total cholesterol levels,” said Dr. Lisa R. Young, adjunct professor of nutrition at New York University.
However, it’s important to note that the actual monacolin K content can vary significantly among products.
Red yeast rice is generally considered safe, but it can have the same side effects as prescription statin drugs, including stomach discomfort, heartburn, gas, and headaches. People who are taking a prescription statin should avoid red yeast rice because high doses of statins can cause severe side effects, such as liver damage and kidney failure.
Another supplement, artichoke leaf extract, contains a compound called cynarin believed to increase bile production and speed the flow of bile from the gallbladder. These actions may help clear cholesterol from the body and limit cholesterol production. Plant sterols or phytosterols, compounds found in whole grains and some fruits, vegetables, and vegetable oils, can also lower cholesterol levels. Studies have shown that a diet with 2 grams of phytosterols daily is linked to a 10% lower LDL cholesterol level. Whey protein and psyllium fiber supplements have also been shown to reduce cholesterol levels.
Niacin, also known as vitamin B3, can help lower cholesterol levels by increasing “good” HDL cholesterol and reducing triglycerides. However, high doses of niacin can cause itching and flushing.
Flaxseed, which is high in fiber and omega-3 fatty acids, is also recommended for its cholesterol-lowering benefits.
While these supplements may have some effectiveness in lowering cholesterol, experts caution against relying solely on them. Lifestyle changes, such as adopting a healthy diet low in saturated and trans fats and high in soluble fiber, are essential for managing cholesterol. It is also important to consult a healthcare professional for medication recommendations and to address high cholesterol and overall health.
Overall, while progress has been made in lowering cholesterol levels in the US, there are still significant challenges to overcome. Public awareness, education, and access to healthcare resources are crucial in the fight against high cholesterol and its associated risks.