Food and food supplements with hypocholesterolemic effects

Area of Science:

• Nutritional Science
• Pharmacology
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Hypercholesterolemia is a major risk factor for atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases.
• Statins effectively manage cholesterol but can have adverse effects, necessitating alternative approaches.
• Food supplements are emerging as viable alternatives for hypercholesterolemia management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current patents on food supplements with hypocholesterolemic effects.
• To categorize supplements based on active ingredients and analyze their efficacy, mechanisms, and safety.
• To identify evidence-based supplements for managing high cholesterol levels.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of patents related to hypocholesterolemic food supplements.
• Categorization of supplements into four groups: plant sterols/stanols, fiber/polysaccharides, microorganism-derived, and soy protein/phytoestrogens.
• Analysis of clinical trial data regarding efficacy, mechanisms of action, and side effects.

Main Results:

• Plant sterols, fiber, Monascus products, and soy protein show consistent hypocholesterolemic effects in clinical trials.
• Efficacy of some probiotic bacteria and phytoestrogen supplements requires further investigation.
• Plant sterols, fiber, soy protein, and phytoestrogens are generally safe with minimal side effects.

Conclusions:

• Certain food supplements, including plant sterols, fiber, and soy protein, are effective and safe for managing hypercholesterolemia.
• Further clinical studies are needed to confirm the safety and efficacy of other supplements like specific probiotics.
• Food supplements represent a promising complementary strategy for cardiovascular disease prevention.