| Beta-sitosterol | Beta-sitosterol, a plant sterol, helps block the body’s absorption of cholesterol. Niacin helps regulate the body’s cholesterol levels and can also help lower triglyceride levels. | 0.5–10 grams/day | No reported significant side effects or drug interactions. |
| Niacin | Fish oil, cod-liver oil, and flaxseed oil are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are anti-inflammatory, help keep triglycerides in check, and may help keep cholesterol within safe levels. | 1,000–3,000 mg/day, usually as part of a daily multivitamin or B-complex vitamin | Only the niacin (not the niacinamide) form of vitamin B3 regulates cholesterol. Niacin may cause flushing, headache, stomachache, and elevated liver enzymes. “Flush-free” niacin (inositol hexaniacinate) is the most well-tolerated form; sustained-release niacin is more likely to cause liver inflammation. |
| Policosanol | Researchers are not yet sure why this mixture of long-chain alcohols (usually extracted from sugar cane or beeswax) helps treat high cholesterol. | 5–10 mg, 2x/day | When combined with aspirin, increased blood thinning occurs. |
| Red yeast rice | Ingredients in red yeast rice have been associated with lowered cholesterol levels and may also lower triglycerides. | 1.2–2.4 grams/day | Avoid red yeast rice products that contain citrinin, a potentially toxic ingredient. Because red yeast rice inhibits the production of coenzyme Q10, it’s best to supplement 30–60 mg/day of Co-Q10. |
| Vitamin E | An antioxidant, vitamin E may help prevent heart attacks, despite recent concerns about “high dose” vitamin E. | 400 IU/day of natural mixed tocopherols | An unsaturated fat-rich diet increases vitamin E requirements. |
