Curcumin Researched for Natural Cholesterol Management
Many human and animal studies have been down to measure the power of turmeric to reduce cholesterol levels. Curcumin, a set of three pigments called curcuminoids, is the active extract of this increasingly useful spice. The research shows that supplementing with curcumin can lower blood levels of cholesterol, especially the dangerous triglycerides.
LDL (low-density lipoprotein) is known as “bad” cholesterol because it is the principal source of build-up in the arteries. But HDL (high-density lipoprotein) is known as “good” cholesterol because it actually helps remove cholesterol from the blood stream. Therefore, LDL should be kept at minimum levels while HDL is better at higher levels. Most cholesterol is produced in the liver, where curcumin can alter gene expression to inhibit overproduction of cholesterol. Turmeric has been shown to improve both LDL and HDL levels in clinical studies. The balance between the two is also very important. Getting a good regular supply of curcumin into the body helps maintain this balance.
Top Three Ways Curcumin Lowers Cholesterol
- Curcumin minimizes cholesterol oxidation and build-up in blood vessels.
- Curcumin helps the liver process cholesterol, thereby reducing the amount left to circulate in the bloodstream.
- Curcumin may prevent absorption of cholesterol, allowing it to pass through the body and be removed as waste.
Maintaining a healthy cholesterol level is essential to protecting your healthy heart. This is because as cholesterol levels increase, it oxidizes and builds up in the arteries, which can lead to stroke and other cardiovascular disease.
Statin drugs are known to cause side effects, such as muscle pain, prompting further research for a natural alternative. Studies show that curcumin can assist in dissolving the build-up created by cholesterol, which allows your blood to flow more freely and avoiding hardened arteries.
People who supplement with curcumin extract have found that their lipid profiles improve without unwelcome side effects.
Since curcumin is also a potent anti-inflammatory, it contributes to heart health (and overall wellness) in additional ways. For example, because it stops platelets from clumping together, curcumin may prevent blood clots from building up along arterial walls.
Keeps it clean, keeps it moving, keeps it out… that’s how curcumin beats cholesterol.
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