Dietary supplement to reduce cholesterol: we care about the vessels

Dietary supplement to reduce cholesterol: we care about the vessels

I. Cholesterol: friend or enemy? Understanding the basics of lipid metabolism

1. The role of cholesterol in the body: Cholesterol is a vital fat -like substance present in all cells of the body. It performs many functions, including:

   • Building material for cell membranes: Cholesterol provides the strength and flexibility of the cell walls, regulating their permeability and transport of substances.
   • Hormone synthesis: Cholesterol is a predecessor for the synthesis of steroid hormones, such as cortisol, aldosterone, estrogen, testosterone and progesterone, which regulate many physiological processes.
   • Production of vitamin D: Cholesterol is involved in the synthesis of vitamin D under the influence of sunlight, which is necessary for the health of bones and the immune system.
   • Synthesis of bile acids: The liver uses cholesterol for the production of bile acids, which are necessary for digestion and assimilation of fats in the intestines.

2. Lipoproteins: blood cholesterol transport: Since cholesterol does not dissolve in water, it is transported in the blood in lipoproteins – complexes consisting of lipids and proteins. There are several types of lipoproteins, the most important of which are:

   • Lipoproteins of low density (LDL) or “bad” cholesterol: LDL is tolerate cholesterol from the liver to the cells of the body. The high level of LDL helps the accumulation of cholesterol on the walls of arteries, which leads to the formation of atherosclerotic plaques.
   • High density lipoproteins (HDLs) or “good” cholesterol: HDLs transfer cholesterol from cells and walls of arteries back to the liver to eliminate it from the body. A high level of HDL has a protective effect on the cardiovascular system.
   • Triglycerides: Triglycerides are another type of fat in the blood. A high level of triglycerides, especially in combination with a high level of LDL and low levels of LDP, increases the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases.

3. Normal lipid profile indicators: To assess the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases, you need to know your lipid profile, which includes the levels of total cholesterol, LDL, HDL and triglycerides. Normal values can vary depending on the age, gender and the presence of concomitant diseases, but the following indicators are usually considered:

   • General cholesterol: Less than 200 mg/DL (5.2 mmol/l)
   • LDL: Less than 100 mg/dl (2.6 mmol/l) (for people with a high risk of cardiovascular disease – less than 70 mg/DL (1.8 mmol/l))
   • HDL: More than 40 mg/dl (1.0 mmol/l) for men and more than 50 mg/DL (1.3 mmol/l) for women
   • Triglycerides: Less than 150 mg/dl (1.7 mmol/l)

4. Factors affecting cholesterol levels: The level of cholesterol in the blood is influenced by various factors, including:

   • Genetics: Heredity plays an important role in the regulation of cholesterol levels.
   • Diet: The use of products with a high content of saturated fats and trans fats increases the level of LDL.
   • Weight: Excess weight and obesity contribute to increasing the level of LDL and triglycerides and reducing the level of HDL.
   • Physical activity: Low physical activity helps to increase LDL levels and reduce LDP levels.
   • Age: With age, cholesterol usually increases.
   • Floor: Men usually have a lower level of HDL than women.
   • Smoking: Smoking reduces the level of HDL and damages the walls of arteries.
   • Diseases: Some diseases, such as diabetes, hypothyroidism and kidney diseases, can affect cholesterol.
   • Medicines: Some drugs, such as beta-blockers and diuretics, can increase cholesterol.

II. Atherosclerosis and its consequences: when cholesterol becomes dangerous

1. Development atherosclerosis: Atherosclerosis is a chronic disease of arteries characterized by the formation of atherosclerotic plaques on their walls. Plains consist of cholesterol, fats, calcium and other substances. The development of atherosclerosis occurs gradually over many years and can begin at a young age.

   • Endothelium damage: The initial stage of atherosclerosis is damage to the endothelium – the inner layer of arteries. This can be caused by various factors such as high blood pressure, smoking, high cholesterol and inflammation.
   • LDL accumulation: After damage to the LDL endothelium, they penetrate the wall of the artery, where they are oxidized.
   • Foamy cell formation: Oxidized LDLs are absorbed by macrophages, turning into foamy cells that accumulate in the wall of the artery.
   • Formation of plaques: Foamy cells and other substances gradually form an atherosclerotic plaque, which increases in size and narrows the lumen of the artery.
   • Triomosis: The plaque can burst, which leads to the formation of a blood clot, which can completely block the artery.

2. Consequences atherosclerosis: Atherosclerosis is the cause of many serious cardiovascular diseases, including:

   • Corny heart (coronary heart disease): IBS occurs when atherosclerotic plaques narrow the coronary arteries that supply the heart. This leads to the insufficient intake of oxygen to the heart muscle, which can cause angina pectoris (chest pain) and myocardial infarction (heart attack).
   • Stroke: A stroke occurs when atherosclerotic plaques narrow the arteries that supply the brain with blood, or when a thrombus formed in another part of the body enters the brain and blocks the artery. This leads to damage to the brain and can cause paralysis, speech impairment and other neurological symptoms.
   • Diseases of the peripheral arteries (ZPA): Zpa occurs when atherosclerotic plaques narrow the arteries that supply the legs and arms. This leads to the insufficient intake of oxygen to the muscles of the limbs, which can cause pain when walking (alternating chroma), ulcers on the legs and, in severe cases, amputation.
   • Aneurysm: Aneurysm is a protrusion of the artery wall caused by its weakening due to atherosclerosis. Aneurysm can burst, which leads to bleeding and death.

3. Risk factors for the development of atherosclerosis: Risk factors for the development of atherosclerosis are similar to factors affecting cholesterol:

   • High cholesterol level: The high level of LDL is the main risk factor for the development of atherosclerosis.
   • High blood pressure: High blood pressure damages the artery endothelium.
   • Smoking: Smoking damages the artery endothelium and reduces the level of HDL.
   • Diabetes sugar: Diabetes mellitus increases the level of cholesterol and triglycerides and damages the arterial endothelium.
   • Obesity: Obesity helps to increase the level of LDL and triglycerides and a decrease in the level of HDL.
   • Low physical activity: Low physical activity helps to increase LDL levels and reduce LDP levels.
   • Age: With age, the risk of atherosclerosis is increasing.
   • Floor: Men have a higher risk of developing atherosclerosis than women before menopause.
   • Family history: The presence of cardiovascular diseases in a family history increases the risk of atherosclerosis.

III. Dietary supplements to reduce cholesterol: what you need to know

1. Definition and classification of dietary supplements: Bades (biologically active additives) are concentrates of natural or identical to natural biologically active substances intended for direct intake with food or introduction into food products in order to enrich the ration with individual food or biologically active substances or complexes of such substances, as well as to maintain normal and restore impaired health. Bades are not drugs and are not intended for the treatment of diseases.

   • Classification of dietary supplements in composition: Bades designed to reduce cholesterol may contain various components, such as:
     • Plant sterols (phytosterols): Phytosterols are structurally similar to cholesterol and block its absorption in the intestines.
     • Red yeast rice: Red yeast rice contains Monacoline K, which is the natural inhibitor of the GMG-Koa Reductase-an enzyme involved in the synthesis of cholesterol in the liver.
     • Omega-3 fatty acids: Omega-3 fatty acids reduce the level of triglycerides and have an anti-inflammatory effect.
     • Fiber: Soluble fiber, such as pectin and guar gum, binds cholesterol in the intestines and contributes to its elimination from the body.
     • Niacin (Vitamin B3): Niacin reduces the level of LDL and triglycerides and increases the level of HDL.
     • Garlic: Garlic contains allicin, which has lipidemic (reducing lipid levels) and antioxidant effects.
     • Artichoke: Artichok extract stimulates the production of bile, which helps to remove cholesterol from the body.
     • Soy protein: Soy protein can slightly reduce the level of LDL.
     • Polikosanol: Polikosanol is a mixture of long -chain alcohols obtained from sugarcane. It can reduce LDL level and increase the level of HDL.

2. The mechanisms of action of dietary supplements that reduce cholesterol: Each component of dietary supplements has its own mechanism of action aimed at reducing cholesterol levels:

   • Plant sterols: Phytosterols block the absorption of cholesterol in the intestines, competing with it for connecting with transport proteins. As a result, less cholesterol enters the bloodstream.
   • Red yeast rice: Monacolin K, contained in red yeast rice, inhibits the GMG-Koa reductase-an enzyme that is necessary for the synthesis of cholesterol in the liver. Inhibition of this enzyme leads to a decrease in cholesterol.
   • Omega-3 fatty acids: Omega-3 fatty acids reduce the level of triglycerides, reduce inflammation and improve endothelium function. They can also slightly reduce LDL levels and increase the level of HDL.
   • Fiber: Soluble fiber binds cholesterol in the intestines and prevents its absorption. Related cholesterol is excreted from the body with feces.
   • Niacin: Niacin reduces the level of LDL and triglycerides, blocking the release of fatty acids from adipose tissue and reducing LDL synthesis in the liver. It also increases the level of HDL, stimulating the synthesis of A-I-I apolipoprotein-the main protein of HDL.
   • Garlic: Allicine contained in garlic reduces cholesterol, suppressing cholesterol synthesis in the liver and increasing its elimination from the body. It also has an antioxidant effect, protecting LDLs from oxidation.
   • Artichoke: Artichok extract stimulates the production of bile, which helps to remove cholesterol from the body with bile.
   • Soy protein: Soy protein can slightly reduce the level of LDL, possibly by increasing the number of LDL receptors in the liver.
   • Polikosanol: The mechanism of action of the polycsanol has not been fully studied, but it is assumed that it affects the metabolism of cholesterol in the liver.

3. The effectiveness of dietary supplements: scientific research and evidence: The effectiveness of dietary supplements to reduce cholesterol varies depending on the specific component and dosage. It is important to note that most dietary supplements were conducted on small groups of people and had a limited duration.

   • Plant sterols: Numerous studies have shown that the use of plant sterols in the amount of 2-3 grams per day can reduce the level of LDL by 6-15%.
   • Red yeast rice: Clinical studies confirm that red yeast rice can reduce LDL level by 10-20%. However, it is important to consider that the composition of red yeast rice can vary depending on the manufacturer and the party. Some products may contain insufficient or even dangerous quantities of Monacolin K.
   • Omega-3 fatty acids: Omega-3 fatty acids effectively reduce the level of triglycerides. The dosage of 2-4 grams per day can reduce the level of triglycerides by 25-50%. The influence of Omega-3 on the level of LDL and LDP is less pronounced.
   • Fiber: The use of a sufficient amount of fiber, especially soluble, can slightly reduce the level of LDL.
   • Niacin: Niacin is an effective tool for reducing the level of LDL and triglycerides and increasing the level of HDL. However, its use may be accompanied by side effects, such as redness of the skin, itching and impaired liver function. Therefore, niacin should only be taken under the supervision of a doctor.
   • Garlic: Some studies have shown that garlic can slightly reduce the level of total cholesterol and LDL. However, research results are often contradictory.
   • Artichoke: Studies have shown that artichoke extract can slightly reduce the level of total cholesterol and LDL.
   • Soy protein: The use of soy protein can slightly reduce the level of LDL.
   • Polikosanol: Some studies have shown that polycosanol can reduce LDL levels and increase the level of HDL. However, research results are also contradictory.

4. Bad safety: side effects and contraindications: Bades, like any other biologically active substances, can cause side effects and have contraindications. It is important to consider that dietary supplements do not undergo strict quality control and safety, such as drugs.

   • Plant sterols: Plant sterols are usually well tolerated. In rare cases, side effects can occur, such as nausea, bloating and diarrhea.
   • Red yeast rice: Red yeast rice contains Monacoline K, which is the natural inhibitor of the GMG-Koa Reductase. Side effects of red yeast rice can be similar to side effects of statins – drugs that reduce cholesterol. These include muscle pain, weakness and impaired liver function. Red yeast rice should not be taken by pregnant and lactating women, as well as people with liver diseases. It is important to check the content of Monacolin K in the product in order to avoid overdose.
   • Omega-3 fatty acids: Omega-3 fatty acids can cause side effects, such as fishing, nausea and diarrhea. In high doses, they can increase the risk of bleeding. Omega-3 fatty acids should be taken with caution to people taking anticoagulants.
   • Fiber: The use of a large amount of fiber can cause bloating, gas formation and constipation.
   • Niacin: Niacin can cause side effects, such as redness of the skin, itching, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and impaired liver function. In rare cases, it can cause serious side effects, such as hepatitis and myopathy. Niacin should only be taken under the supervision of a doctor.
   • Garlic: Garlic can cause side effects, such as heartburn, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. In rare cases, it can cause allergic reactions. Garlic should be taken with caution to people taking anticoagulants, as it can increase the risk of bleeding.
   • Artichoke: The artichoke can cause side effects, such as bloating, gas formation and diarrhea. In rare cases, it can cause allergic reactions.
   • Soy protein: Soy protein can cause side effects, such as bloating, gas formation and diarrhea. In rare cases, it can cause allergic reactions.
   • Polikosanol: Polycosanol can cause side effects, such as headache, dizziness and nausea.

5. Interaction of dietary supplements with drugs: Bades can interact with drugs, enhancing or weakening their effect, as well as causing undesirable side effects. It is important to inform the doctor about all the dietary supplements that you accept in order to avoid potential interactions.

   • Red yeast rice: Red yeast rice can interact with statins, increasing the risk of myopathy (muscle pain and weakness).
   • Omega-3 fatty acids: Omega-3 fatty acids can interact with anticoagulants, increasing the risk of bleeding.
   • Niacin: Niacin can interact with diabetes, increasing blood sugar.
   • Garlic: Garlic can interact with anticoagulants, increasing the risk of bleeding.

IV. How to choose dietary supplement to reduce cholesterol: practical recommendations

1. Consultation with a doctor: Before starting to take any dietary supplements to reduce cholesterol, you need to consult a doctor. The doctor will evaluate your lipid profile, determine the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases and give recommendations on a change in lifestyle and, if necessary, for taking drugs or dietary supplements.

2. Study of composition and dosage: Carefully study the composition of the dietary supplement and make sure that it contains components whose effectiveness is proved by clinical research. Pay attention to the dosage of each component and compare it with recommended doses.

3. The choice of a reliable manufacturer: Choose dietary supplements from famous and reliable manufacturers who comply with quality and safety standards. Look for information about the manufacturer, its reputation and the availability of quality certificates.

4. Checking the availability of quality certificates: Check the availability of quality certificates on the Bad packaging. The availability of certificates guarantees that the product has passed the necessary checks and meets the stated requirements.

5. Reading reviews: Before buying a diet, read the reviews of other consumers. Reviews can give an idea of the efficiency and safety of the product.

6. Price rating: The price of dietary supplements can be an indicator of its quality. Too low price may indicate low ingredients or violation of production technology.

7. Observation of the reaction of the body: After the start of taking Bad, carefully observe the reaction of your body. If you notice any side effects, immediately stop taking it and consult a doctor.

8. Integration of dietary supplements in a complex approach: Bades are not a replacement for a healthy lifestyle and drugs. They should be used as an addition to a diet, physical activity and, if necessary, drug therapy.

V. Diet and lifestyle to reduce cholesterol: the basis of the health of blood vessels

1. Balanced nutrition: Diet is a key factor in the regulation of cholesterol levels.

   • Restriction of saturated fats and trans fats: Reduce the consumption of foods with a high content of saturated fats, such as fatty meat, butter, cheese and palm oil. Avoid products containing trans fats such as margarine, fast food and fried products.
   • Increased consumption of soluble fiber: Use products rich in soluble fiber, such as oatmeal, apples, pears, legumes and citrus fruits.
   • The choice of beneficial fats: Replace saturated fats with unsaturated fats, such as olive oil, avocados, nuts and seeds.
   • Increased consumption of omega-3 fatty acids: Use products rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as fatty fish (salmon, mackerel, herring), linen seeds and walnuts.
   • Cholesterol consumption control: Limit the consumption of products with a high cholesterol content, such as egg yolks, offal and seafood.
   • Increase in fruits and vegetable consumptions: Use a variety of fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.

2. Regular physical activity: Regular physical activity helps to reduce LDL levels and increase the level of HDL. It is recommended to engage in moderate physical activity of at least 150 minutes a week or intensive physical activity of at least 75 minutes a week.

3. Maintaining a healthy weight: Excess weight and obesity contribute to increasing the level of LDL and triglycerides and reducing the level of HDL. Weight reduction even on a small amount can have a positive effect on cholesterol.

4. Refusal of smoking: Smoking reduces the level of HDL and damages the walls of arteries. Refusal of smoking is an important step in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases.

5. Stress management: Stress can increase cholesterol. It is important to learn how to control stress using various techniques, such as meditation, yoga and deep breathing.

6. Regular medical examinations: Regular medical examinations, including measuring cholesterol, allow you to identify disorders at an early stage and take timely measures.

VI. Alternative methods of reduction of cholesterol: what else can you try

1. Traditional Chinese medicine (TKM): Some herbs and acupuncture used in TCM can affect a lipid profile. However, additional studies are needed to confirm their effectiveness and safety.

2. Ayurveda: Ayurveda, a traditional Indian system of medicine, also offers various methods for reducing cholesterol, including diet, grass and yoga.

3. Homeopathy: The effectiveness of homeopathic remedies for reducing cholesterol has not been proved by scientific research.

4. Meditation and yoga: Meditation and yoga can help reduce stress, which is a risk factor for increasing cholesterol.

5. Biological feedback (BOS): Bos is a technique that allows people to learn how to control their physiological functions, such as blood pressure and heart rate. Some studies have shown that BOS can help reduce cholesterol.

VII. Conclusion: an integrative approach to the health of blood vessels

Maintaining vascular health requires an integrated approach, including a healthy lifestyle, a balanced diet, regular physical activity, refusal of smoking, managing stress and, if necessary, taking drugs or dietary supplements. It is important to consult a doctor to develop an individual treatment plan and prevention of cardiovascular diseases. Bades can be a useful addition to a healthy lifestyle, but they should not replace it. A responsible approach to your health, including informed choice and consultations with specialists, is the key to a long and healthy life.