Guggul

Guggul is an extract from the resin of a tree native to India. A form of the extract, guggulipid, has traditionally been used to reduce total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides, and to increase HDL cholesterol. However, in 2003, a well-designed study found that taking 1 to 2 g of guggulipid a day actually raised LDL cholesterol and did not change total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, or triglycerides. Additionally, some people developed rashes. At this time, there is not enough evidence to support the use of guggul to treat high blood cholesterol.

Like guggul, lecithin is a dietary supplement that claims to lower cholesterol. Unlike guggul, lecithin can be found in many common food products. Read on to learn if lecithin has any proven cholesterol-lowering benefits.

To find out more information about reducing cholesterol, see:

  • Foods That Lower Cholesterol: Many foods and supplements are proven to have a beneficial effect on cholesterol levels. Learn which foods can help lower your cholesterol and your risk of heart disease.
  • Can Vitamins Lower Cholesterol?: Can a vitamin regimen really help lower cholesterol? Learn just how effective vitamin therapy can be.
  • Low Cholesterol Diet: Eating a low-fat, low-cholesterol diet is the best way to reduce your cholesterol. Explore the dietary choices that can help you lower your cholesterol.
  • How Cholesterol Works: Cholesterol is vital to human life. Learn what cholesterol is, why we need it, and how too much can be deadly.

This information is solely for informational purposes. IT IS NOT INTENDED TO PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE. Neither the Editors of Consumer Guide (R), Publications International, Ltd., the author nor publisher take responsibility for any possible consequences from any treatment, procedure, exercise, dietary modification, action or application of medication which results from reading or following the information contained in this information. The publication of this information does not constitute the practice of medicine, and this information does not replace the advice of your physician or other health care provider. Before undertaking any course of treatment, the reader must seek the advice of their physician or other health care provider.