Leveraging Vitamins to Lower Cholesterol

Research has shown that high cholesterol is all too common in the US. Recent studies point to numbers showing that 2 in 5 American adults have the diagnosis. High cholesterol is dangerous as the condition can increase the risk of developing stroke and heart disease, which are the 2 main causes of death in this country. Prescription medications can help to lower numbers. However, these days, many people want natural ways to reduce cholesterol, and vitamins might help.

Explaining high cholesterol

Not all cholesterol is bad since the waxy substance is naturally found in the blood. When well regulated, the material is somewhat harmless and an essential building block to help build cells. However, when found in excess, cholesterol is dangerous. If too much is present in the body’s blood vessels, the deposits accumulate and lead to blockages in the arteries. Sometimes, these deposits may restrict blood flow. However, a real concern is if a piece of cholesterol breaks off and causes a blockage that could lead to a heart attack or a stroke.

What causes high cholesterol

One of the most influential predictors of high cholesterol is genetics or a family history of the condition. Still, lifestyle factors such as not staying active, being obese, or eating a diet high in unhealthy substances like cholesterol, saturated fats, and trans fats can also be contributing factors. Likewise, individuals who have other chronic conditions like diabetes or hypothyroidism are also at a heightened risk.

How vitamin B5 can help

The B complex vitamins are some of the most well-known nutritional building blocks. Many forms of B vitamins exist, with each option performing a vital function. Vitamin B5 is one of the better-known versions and is credited for supporting multiple bodily functions. Officially labeled pantothenic acid, the component is found in many foods but can also be consumed in supplement form. Vitamin B5 helps to create coenzyme A (CoA), which breaks down fatty acids and bolsters metabolic functions. For people with high cholesterol, the essential vitamin can break down fats in the blood, which contributes to high levels of LDL or bad cholesterol. Still, before adopting a vitamin B5 supplement plan, don’t forget to also incorporate a heart-healthy diet.

Best sources of B5

Vitamin B5 is naturally found in foods but can be supplemented as a vitamin. Guidelines recommend opting for healthy foods rich in the nutrient, which can include organ meats like liver, beef, chicken, select vegetables, and even fortified cereals. Other great sources of vitamin B5 include eggs, avocados, dairy milk, oats, yogurt, and brown rice.

Work towards lower cholesterol

Lowering cholesterol levels takes commitment and a willingness to adopt lifestyle changes that will yield measurable results. Evidence supports the idea that vitamin B5 can reduce cholesterol deposits in the blood. However, simply popping a vitamin pill isn’t enough. People with high cholesterol are encouraged to make long-term lifestyle changes such as incorporating exercise, maintaining routine checkups to ensure that cholesterol levels are under control, losing weight if necessary, and avoiding risky behaviors like smoking and excessive drinking.