When you have a problem with your blood cholesterol level, as many know, it is important to intervene with a targeted attack on several fronts. For example, work is done not only on taking the right medicines - which, moreover, are required only when the problem exceeds a certain threshold - but also on lifestyle habits, and obviously on nutrition, which also includes taking of supplements with the enzyme q10 and other active ingredients that have proven to be effective in combating cholesterolemia.
In fact, food supplements have proven to be valid – always in combination with a change in lifestyle and adequate nutrition – for reducing the cholesterol level. It must be premised that a supplement to lower cholesterol can only be taken on the advice and under medical supervision, especially to have specific advice for those suffering from particular pathologies or are taking other drugs.
In the meantime, however, we thought we'd give you some useful information, so that you can at least know what a cholesterol supplement and why it might help you. Ready? Let's start!
What is cholesterol and when should we start worrying
Let's start with knowing about cholesterol, important information because we're used to hearing about it in negative terms, but it's not really like this or always like this. It is, in fact, a component of the plasma membrane that surrounds the cells. It performs an extremely important function, since it participates in the synthesis, in the blood, of vitamin D, but also of bile and steroid hormones. In short, in "normal" doses, cholesterol is not an enemy at all.
The problem arises precisely when the "bad" cholesterol exceeds the danger limits.
We talk about bad cholesterol, which is the one carried by LDL lipoproteins and which, if present in excess, accumulates on blood vessels, forming plaques and thickenings. The effect is to hinder circulation, leading to vascular ischemia. The "good" cholesterol, on the other hand, is the one carried by high-density lipoproteins. Unlike the bad one, it cleans the blood vessels by affecting cardiovascular problems, protecting us.
Cholesterol and nutrition
The presence of bad cholesterol is generally connected to problems such as obesity and a sedentary lifestyle. This is both good and bad news, because it means that if we have a cholesterol problem we have to change our lifestyle, but it also means that we can intervene, i.e. that the problem is not irreversible. In short: you can protect yourself, and it's simpler than you think.
From the point of view of nutrition, the recommended solution consists mainly in increasing the consumption of fruit and vegetables, but also oily fish and whole grains. Then there are foods to avoid, which are obviously fatty foods, with particular attention to butter, whole milk, cheese, alcohol and salt. This type of diet allows you to regulate biological functions. It should be followed, however, not with a view to a cure, but as a general rule of life if you want to avoid cholesterol problems.
Cholesterol supplement: enzyme q10, lecithin and others
When you look for a good cholesterol lowering supplement, the first thing you notice is that there are several of them, which is certainly good news as it means that research has found numerous solutions to this problem. At the same time, however, it can happen to feel disoriented. So let's try to sort things out and analyze the main supplements.
Coenzyme Q10
By now we are used to hearing about the q10 enzyme in anti-aging creams, thanks to the incredible results shown in the fight against free radicals. Few people know, however, that the q10 enzyme has also proved to be very effective in blocking the oxidation of bad cholesterol particles, thus proving to be a very effective ally in the fight against cholesterol and in protecting against cardiovascular disease.
Moreover, it has been shown that it reduces the rate of pathologies connected to intense physical activity, increasing the energy available and making us less exposed to fatigue and heart problems.
Soluble fibers
Soluble fiber lowers LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels, helping to keep blood vessels clear. This through a positive effect on the intestinal absorption of fats which, precisely, affects the bad cholesterol. Where to find them? Whole grains, apples and carrots.
Compared to the enzyme q10, however, it should be noted that these are supplements whose intake it is particularly important to be careful if you are also taking other medicines because, precisely, they can reduce their assimilation.
Beta Glucans
These are elements contained, such as fibers, in some whole grains - in particular barley and oats - as well as in brewer's yeast. There are numerous studies that have shown how their intake reduces the levels of LDL cholesterol, i.e. bad cholesterol, and they are available in practical tablets to be taken daily.
Soy
Soy has earned a place of honor in the fight against cholesterol thanks to its great effectiveness. It is unanimously considered, in fact, one of the most effective natural methods for cholesterolemia. Why 'natural methods'? Because in addition to supplements, soy can be introduced - in particular soy lecithin - by simply adding salsa, tempeh, or steamed soy beans in the diet.
Furthermore, it promotes brain functions by fighting mental tiredness, and facilitates the transport of fats to the liver.
Cholesterol supplement: some final advice
As we told you at the beginning, the fight against cholesterol passes first of all through a change in one's lifestyle and eating habits. However, just like when we generally say to keep stress under control, this alone may not be enough. So, before having to turn to drugs, it can be very useful to resort to a supplement.
Fortunately, the market offers several, as are the substances that have proved effective in the fight against cholesterol. What does this mean? That it will be very easy to find the one that is right for us. But be careful: since many of these supplements reduce the cholesterol rate by affecting the absorption of nutrients, it is advisable to ask your doctor before buying them, especially if you are taking medicines, as these supplements could limit their effectiveness.
