Natuurlijke cholesterolverlagers? Deze kunnen helpen

Natural Cholesterol Lowerers? These Can Help

Geschreven door: Ebrina van der Bijl

|

Gepubliceerd op:

|

Leesduur: 9 min

Statins are the most well-known cholesterol-lowering medications. While they often work well, some people experience side effects or prefer not to take them long-term.

That's why many people wonder: Can it be done naturally? And in many cases, it certainly can. There are certain nutrients and plant extracts that support healthy cholesterol levels.

In this article I will mainly tell you about the substances that have been scientifically well researched and for which evidence has been found that they work.

Good to know : Officially, I'm not allowed to call these natural remedies "cholesterol-lowering," because a supplement isn't a treatment in itself. However, these substances, combined with other healthy lifestyle habits like a healthy diet and plenty of exercise, can help support healthy cholesterol levels.

Statins effectively lower LDL cholesterol, but can cause side effects, leading some people to look for natural alternatives.

Various nutrients and plant extracts, such as garlic, fiber, red yeast rice and plant sterols, have been scientifically proven to support healthy cholesterol levels.

Natural cholesterol-lowering supplements complement healthy lifestyle choices, but they are not a replacement for medical treatment; consulting a doctor is always important.

What are statins?

Statins are medications that inhibit cholesterol production in the liver. They primarily lower LDL cholesterol, also known as "bad" cholesterol.

Doctors often prescribe them to people with high cholesterol or an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.

Because some people experience side effects from these medications, such as muscle pain, cramps or digestive problems, many people are looking for alternatives or natural substances as a supplement.

Please note: these natural remedies are aids, not medications. Never stop taking your medication without consulting your doctor.

Natural remedies for cholesterol with proven effectiveness

Want to support your cholesterol naturally? There are several substances that can help.

These are nutrients and plant extracts that have shown a beneficial effect on the maintenance of normal cholesterol levels in scientific studies.

You can get them through your diet, but sometimes also as a supplement. These are the most common options:

1. Garlic extract

Garlic (Allium sativum) may help maintain normal blood cholesterol levels. * This effect has been observed in studies primarily with a daily intake of 600 to 1200 mg of dried garlic powder or 2 to 5 mg of allicin .

Garlic powder is easy to use in the kitchen, but garlic extract is much more concentrated.

Such an extract is often used in capsules and often contains standardized amounts of the active ingredients. This ensures that each dose contains the same amount of active ingredients. (1) (2)

Some extracts have been made odorless, which makes them more pleasant to take.

Note : Garlic is not a replacement for medications like statins. If you are taking blood thinners or other medications, always consult your doctor before starting a supplement.

2. Monacolin K (from red yeast rice)

Monacolin K is a substance derived from red yeast rice , a fermented rice product made with a special yeast. It has a similar chemical structure to a statin, but is derived from a natural source.

In the Netherlands and the rest of the EU, supplements may contain a maximum of 3 mg of monacolin K per daily dose . This is a safe dosage for people between the ages of 18 and 70.

This restriction was set as a safety margin, because higher doses can cause side effects similar to those of statins, such as muscle pain and in some cases liver problems. (3) (4)

3. Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA)

Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) is a plant-based omega-3 fatty acid that helps maintain normal cholesterol levels. This effect is achieved with a daily intake of 2 grams of ALA.

You can get it from food (think of linseed oil, chia seeds and walnuts), but also through supplements.

It works best as part of a healthy diet, where you replace saturated fats with unsaturated fats as much as possible. (5) (6)

4. Fibers

It is common knowledge that fiber affects your cholesterol.

  • Beta-glucans from oats and barley, in particular, have been well-researched. A daily intake of 3 grams from oats, oat bran, barley, barley bran (or mixtures of these) contributes to the maintenance of normal blood cholesterol levels. (7) (8)
  • Glucomannan , a fiber from the konjac root, also has this effect. The beneficial result is achieved with a daily intake of 4 grams , spread over the day and always with plenty of water. (9)
  • In addition, there is guar gum , which comes from guar beans. A daily intake of 10 grams can contribute to the maintenance of normal blood cholesterol levels. (10)

You can get these fibers from food, such as oatmeal and barley products, or through special fiber preparations in supplement form.

5. Chitosan

Chitosan is a fiber typically extracted from the shells of shrimp, crabs, and other crustaceans. In your body, it binds to dietary fats.

This means that some fats are not absorbed, which can contribute to maintaining normal blood cholesterol levels. Research shows that you need at least 3 grams of chitosan per day for this. (11) (12)

Because nibbling on crab claws isn't particularly appetizing, chitosan is only available in supplement form. Always take it with plenty of water to ensure it moves through your stomach and intestines.

Please note : If you have a shellfish allergy, it is best to avoid chitosan.

6. Plant sterols

Plant sterols are also good for your cholesterol levels if you consume at least 0.8g per day . These substances occur naturally in small amounts in vegetable oils, nuts, seeds, grains, and legumes.

If you take 1.5 to 3 grams per day , they can even lower LDL cholesterol ("bad" cholesterol). And that's important because high cholesterol is a risk factor for the development of coronary heart disease. (13)

With consistent use, you'll often see results after two to three weeks , especially when combined with a healthy diet and plenty of exercise. Stick to the recommended dosage of plant sterol supplements, as too much can reduce the absorption of certain vitamins. (14) (15)

If you're taking statins or other cholesterol-lowering drugs, consult your doctor first.

Good to know : Claims marked with an (*) are so-called "on-hold" claims. This means the European Commission is still assessing additional evidence on this potential health effect. The claim has not yet been officially approved, but it has not been rejected either.

Who are natural cholesterol remedies suitable for?

Natural cholesterol-lowering agents are particularly interesting for those who want to provide additional support to their cholesterol in addition to a healthy diet and sufficient exercise.

They may also be an option for people who cannot tolerate statins due to side effects, provided this is done in consultation with the doctor.

Do you have significantly elevated levels or are you at high risk for cardiovascular disease? Then it's important to seek medical advice first . In some cases, medication is necessary to lower your cholesterol quickly enough.

Good to know : Natural remedies can sometimes be used as a supplement, but never as a replacement for prescribed treatments.

Natural remedy for cholesterol levels

Curious about what these natural supplements can do for your well-being? Then Cholesterol Premium is a great choice from our range.

This formula combines carefully selected plant extracts and nutrients, all in a safe dosage.

  • Garlic Extract (20:1) – Odorless, yet powerful. One capsule contains 60 mg of garlic extract (20:1), equivalent to 1200 mg of garlic.
  • Red yeast rice extract – Source of Monacolin K (3.0 mg per capsule).
  • Coenzyme Q10 (ubiquinone) – Works perfectly with Monacolin K and is a popular combination in supplements.
  • Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) - Contributes to the normal functioning of the heart.
  • Vitamin B3 (Niacin) - Contributes to normal energy-yielding metabolism.

Conclusion

Natural cholesterol-lowering medications can be a valuable addition to a healthy lifestyle, but they should not replace medication prescribed by your doctor.

For best results, combine them with habits such as a varied diet, sufficient exercise and not smoking.

Whether you choose garlic extract, fiber, plant sterols, or other statin-free options, consistent use makes all the difference.

Always consult your doctor about which choice is right for you, especially if you're taking medication. This way, you can work towards healthy cholesterol levels safely and responsibly.

Ebrina van der Bijl - Natural Performance

Ebrina van der Bijl

Ebrina is a nutritionist with a deep commitment to healthy eating and a sustainable lifestyle, based in beautiful Portugal. Her passion for natural and organic products is at the heart of her work. With a background in Nutrition & Dietetics and experience in product development and writing, she translates complex scientific information into practical advice for a balanced lifestyle.

Read more

Sources used

  1. Zeng, T., Guo, F., Zhang, C., Song, F., Zhao, X., & Xie, K. (2012). A meta‐analysis of randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trials for the effects of garlic on serum lipid profiles. Journal Of The Science Of Food And Agriculture, 92(9), 1892–1902. https://doi.org/10.1002/jsfa.5557
  2. Ried, K., Toben, C., & Fakler, P. (2013). Effect of garlic on serum lipids: an updated meta-analysis. Nutrition Reviews, 71(5), 282–299. https://doi.org/10.1111/nure.12012
  3. Gerards, MC, Terlou, RJ, Yu, H., Koks, C., & Gerdes, V. (2015). Traditional Chinese lipid-lowering agent red yeast rice results in significant LDL reduction but safety is uncertain – A systematic review and meta-analysis. Atherosclerosis, 240(2), 415–423. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2015.04.004
  4. Li, P., Wang, Q., Chen, K., Zou, S., Shu, S., Lu, C., Wang, S., Jiang, Y., Fan, C., & Luo, Y. (2022). Red Yeast Rice for Hyperlipidemia: A Meta-Analysis of 15 High-Quality Randomized Controlled Trials. Frontiers in Pharmacology, 12. https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2021.819482
  5. Haghighatdoost, F., & Hariri, M. (2019). Does alpha-lipoic acid affect lipid profile? A meta-analysis and systematic review on randomized controlled trials. European Journal Of Pharmacology, 847, 1–10. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ejphar.2019.01.001
  6. Sala-Vila, A., Fleming, J., Kris-Etherton, P., & Ros, E. (2022). Impact of α-Linolenic Acid, the Vegetable ω-3 Fatty Acid, on Cardiovascular Disease and Cognition. Advances in Nutrition, 13(5), 1584–1602. https://doi.org/10.1093/advances/nmac016
  7. Yu, J., Xia, J., Yang, C., Pan, D., Xu, D., Sun, G., & Xia, H. (2022). Effects of Oat Beta-Glucan Intake on Lipid Profiles in Hypercholesterolemic Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Nutrients, 14(10), 2043. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14102043
  8. Charlton, K. E., Tapsell, L. C., Batterham, M. J., O'Shea, J., Thorne, R., Beck, E., & Tosh, S. M. (2011). Effect of 6 weeks' consumption of β-glucan-rich oat products on cholesterol levels in mildly hypercholesterolaemic overweight adults. British Journal Of Nutrition, 107(7), 1037–1047. https://doi.org/10.1017/s0007114511003850
  9. Ho, HVT, Jovanovski, E., Zurbau, A., Mejia, S.B., Sievenpiper, J.L., Au-Yeung, F., Jenkins, A.L., Duvnjak, L., Leiter, L., & Vuksan, V. (2017). A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials of the effect of konjac glucomannan, a viscous soluble fiber, on LDL cholesterol and the new lipid targets non-HDL cholesterol and apolipoprotein B. American Journal Of Clinical Nutrition, 105(5), 1239–1247. https://doi.org/10.3945/ajcn.116.142158
  10. Lin, J., Sun, Y., Santos, H. O., Găman, M., Bhat, L. T., & Cui, Y. (2021). Effects of guar gum supplementation on the lipid profile: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Nutrition Metabolism And Cardiovascular Diseases, 31(12), 3271–3281. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.numecd.2021.08.040
  11. Baker, W. L., Tercius, A., Anglade, M., White, C. M., & Coleman, C. I. (2009). A Meta-Analysis Evaluating the Impact of Chitosan on Serum Lipids in Hypercholesterolemic Patients. Annals Of Nutrition And Metabolism, 55(4), 368–374. https://doi.org/10.1159/000258633
  12. Moraru, C., Mincea, M. M., Frandes, M., Timar, B., & Ostafe, V. (2018b). A Meta-Analysis on Randomized Controlled Clinical Trials Evaluating the Effect of the Dietary Supplement Chitosan on Weight Loss, Lipid Parameters and Blood Pressure. Medicina, 54(6), 109. https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina54060109
  13. Shaghaghi, M. A., Abumweis, S. S., & Jones, P. J. (2013). Cholesterol-Lowering Efficacy of Plant Sterols/Stanols Provided in Capsule and Tablet Formats: Results of a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Journal Of The Academy Of Nutrition And Dietetics, 113(11), 1494–1503. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jand.2013.07.006
  14. Richelle, M., Enslen, M., Hager, C., Groux, M., Tavazzi, I., Godin, J., Berger, A., Métairon, S., Quaile, S., Piguet-Welsch, C., Sagalowicz, L., Green, H., & Fay, L. B. (2004). Both free and esterified plant sterols reduce cholesterol absorption and the bioavailability of β-carotene and α-tocopherol in normocholesterolemic humans. American Journal Of Clinical Nutrition, 80(1), 171–177. https://doi.org/10.1093/ajcn/80.1.171
  15. Berger, A., Jones, P. J., & Abumweis, S. S. (2004). Plant sterols: factors affecting their efficacy and safety as functional food ingredients. Lipids in Health And Disease, 3(1), 5. https://doi.org/10.1186/1476-511x-3-5