6 Vitamins and Minerals for Lowering LDL Cholesterol Levels - LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol) in the blood can increase the risk of heart disease. Therefore, it is important to lower LDL cholesterol levels.
However, you also must be able to maintain and even increase levels of HDL cholesterol (good cholesterol) in the blood.
Some vitamins and minerals can help balance the cardiovascular condition.
Here are a few vitamins and minerals that can help lower LDL cholesterol levels or improve HDL cholesterol levels:
1. niacin
Instead of lowering bad cholesterol, niacin raise levels of good cholesterol or HDL.
It can be found in some foods, such as milk, meat, and eggs, niacin can also be obtained in the form of supplements.
2. vitamin B12
A person who follows a strict vegan diet may be deficient in vitamins B12 because this vitamin is usually found in milk, meat, and eggs.
Vitamin B12 is a nutrient that functions in cholesterol metabolism. However, vitamin B12 is also found in the form of supplements sold in pharmacies or drug stores.
3. Folic Acid
Along with niacin and vitamin B12, folic acid helps lower LDL cholesterol levels and increase HDL cholesterol levels.
Folic acid can be found in vegetables and nuts, and is often added to many cereals and grains.
4. vitamin C
A study conducted by Tufts University found that 1,000 mg of vitamin C can increase HDL cholesterol levels as much as 7 percent.
This study suggests that low levels of vitamin C in the blood will show the results of high LDL cholesterol levels.
5. chromium
Americans often lack the mineral chromium, this is partly due to excess sugar consumption.
If you eat a lot of sugar, it's good to consider taking chromium mineral supplement.
6. coenzyme Q10
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is naturally found in the mitochondria of the cell body. CoQ10 levels will be higher in people with low levels of good cholesterol.
Taking CoQ10 supplements can help cholesterol-lowering medications work better.