Dear Dietitian,

A while ago, you shared information about the supplement Citrus Bergamot. I was interested in this because I had seen a few advertisements purporting that this supplement could lower LDL cholesterol by up to 30%.

When I had my annual exam and lab work done in January 2022, I discussed the results with my doctor. Because my LDL (low-density lipoprotein) has continued to climb in my sixties, he recommended I take medication to lower it.  I told him about CB (Citrus Bergamot), and we agreed to try that first. I took the supplement for three months. In early May, I repeated the cholesterol labs. My LDL cholesterol went down from 165 to 130. That isn’t quite 30%, but I was very pleased with the results. My doctor cautioned me that the numbers were still elevated, but I’ve decided to continue this regimen and see if it improves further.  

I just wanted to thank you for giving me the information you did. It encouraged me to look further and take a step of faith to improve my health without drugs.

Alice

Dear Alice,

I commend you for improving your health! Great job!  

As a review for readers, there are two types of cholesterol. LDL is sometimes referred to as “bad” cholesterol because a high level (greater than 100 mg/dL) causes a build-up of plaque in your arteries. If the build-up is left untreated, it may increase the risk of heart disease. HDL (high-density lipoprotein) is often referred to as “good” cholesterol because it sends cholesterol back to the liver to be removed from the body.

Continue a diet rich in fruits and vegetables and consume lean proteins and unsaturated fats, like canola oil and olive oil. Remember to get at least twenty-five grams of fiber in your diet every day. Finally, twenty to thirty minutes of moderate-intensity exercise three to four times a week will also aid in lowering cholesterol.

I appreciate your taking the time to e-mail a thank you note. It gives me great satisfaction that the education “Dear Dietitian” provides is helping people like you!

Until next time, be healthy!

Dear Dietitian

Disclaimer: This column is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for medical care. Talk to your doctor before beginning a supplement regimen.