If high cholesterol is not treated, then it can potentially lead to heart disease. However, cholesterol medications come with the risk of a number of side effects. That is why many people are turning to cholesterol supplements and alternative cholesterol treatments. Although alternative medicine remains controversial, there have been quite a few alternative treatments that have been proven to help lower cholesterol. Below is a list of natural remedies for high cholesterol:
Garlic
Garlic is often referred to as the ancient herb for heart health. There have been a number of studies done to confirm that garlic helps lower cholesterol. Researchers have found that garlic can help prevent high cholesterol in the early stages by preventing the plaque from sticking to the walls of the arteries. Experts have stated that two to four garlic cloves per day can be effective for lowering cholesterol.
Garlic is also available in the form of a supplement. However, it is important to consult with a physician before taking any type of cholesterol supplement.
Red Yeast Rice
Red yeast rice has been used as a part of Asian cuisines for many years. There has also been a lot of evidence to suggest that it can lower cholesterol. In fact, some studies suggest that red yeast rice can be just as effective for lowering cholesterol as Statins, which are the standard medications prescribe for treating high cholesterol.
Fenugreek Seeds
Fenugreek seeds are effective for lowering both bad cholesterol and total cholesterol. Fenugreek seeds contain a compound that helps inhibit cholesterol production in the liver. It is estimated that 75 percent of the cholesterol in the body is produced by the liver. Fenugreek seeds also help inhibit cholesterol absorption in the intestines.
Fenugreek seeds have many other benefits. They can help lower triglycerides, which is the measure of fat in the blood. High triglycerides can also increase the risk of heart disease. Furthermore, fenugreek seeds can help lower blood sugar, which can benefit people who have type 2 diabetes.
Dark Chocolate
As strange as it may sound, dark chocolate can help lower cholesterol. It has three times as many antioxidants as milk chocolate. These flavonoid antioxidants help prevent cholesterol from accumulating inside of the arteries. Additionally, dark chocolate helps prevent bad cholesterol from oxidizing.
It is important to look at the cacoa, or cocoa, content of the dark chocolate. Opt for dark chocolate that is made up of at least 70 percent cocoa.
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