Cholesterol-Lowering Vitamins & Supplements: What the Science Says

In the wrong amounts, cholesterol can put people at risk for heart disease and stroke. Besides prescription niacin, no one vitamin or mineral has been shown to lower cholesterol, although researchers have found that taking certain substances can make a difference.

Phytosterols and Fish Oil

• Phytosterols (plant sterols) in combination with fish oils heavy in (n-3) long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (omega 3) were shown to reduce "bad" LDL cholesterol, according to a study published in "The Journal of Nutrition."

Artichoke Leaf Extract

• In research conducted on the effectiveness of artichoke leaf extract in reducing cholesterol, examiners in the United Kingdom found that the supplement had a positive effect.

Red Yeast Rice Supplement

• According to the National Institutes of Health's National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, red yeast rice "significantly decreased blood levels of LDL and total cholesterol."

Flaxseed and Flaxseed Oil

• Flaxseed preparations may lower cholesterol. The results of studies have been mixed, according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine.

Niacin

• Niacin is known to lower cholesterol, although the American Heart Association recommends obtaining it through prescription. Prescription niacin is regulated by the Food and Drug Administration and will not vary in terms of the quantity and quality of niacin.