Cholesterol is a waxy substance which is found in the blood that comes in two forms: Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) or “bad” cholesterol and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) or “good” cholesterol. The former is known as the “bad” kind of cholesterol due to its ability to cause cholesterol to build up in the walls of the arteries, making them hard and narrow. When this occurs, cardiovascular complications ensue such as heart disease. Taking either of these two supplements can help. What are they?

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Artichokes have become a popular addition to many dishes, however, extracts of the delicious plant has also shown promise in helping to reduce cholesterol levels.

In a study with over 700 participants, it was found that supplementing with artichoke leaf extract daily for five to 13 weeks helped to reduce LDL cholesterol.

In another study with 143 adults suffering with high cholesterol, artichoke leaf extract taken for six weeks showed interesting results.

It was reported an 18.5 percent and 22.9 percent decrease in total and LDL cholesterol, respectively.

What is artichoke leaf extract?

Artichoke is a plant which the leaf, stem and root can be used to make extracts.

Extracts contain a higher concentration of certain chemicals that are found naturally in the plant.

These extracts are used as medicine.

Artichoke is used to stimulate the flow of bile from the liver.

This is thought to help reduce symptoms of heartburn, high cholesterol, irritable bowel syndrome, kidney problems and fluid retention.

Research has shown that green tea may help to treat some medical conditions including high cholesterol.

In a study with The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, green tea intake and its cholesterol lowering abilities was analysed.

Fourteen eligible randomised controlled trials with 1136 subjects were enrolled in the meta-analysis.

The study found that consuming green tea significantly lowered the LDL-cholesterol concentration by 2.19 mg/Dl.

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Green and black tea can help lower cholesterol levels.

Green tea is prepared from unfermented leaves and black tea from fully fermented leaves of the same plants.

Researchers believe that catechins, a type of antioxidant found in tea are responsible for its cholesterol-lowering effect.

Antioxidants found int green tea helps fight cell-damaging free radicals in the body which could help to lower your cholesterol levels.

The NHS said: “High cholesterol is when you have too much of a fatty substance called cholesterol in your blood.

“It’s mainly caused by eating fatty food, not exercising enough, being overweight, smoking and drinking alcohol, it also runs in families.

“You can lower your cholesterol by eating healthy and getting more exercise.

“Some people need to take medicine.

“Too much cholesterol can blood you blood vessels. It makes you more likely to have heart problems or a stroke.

“High cholesterol does not cause symptoms. You can only find out if you have it from a blood test.”

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