Probiotics can provide a variety of health benefits, but can a probiotic lower your cholesterol? Find out what a new study has to say.
According to a study in the Journal of Functional Foods, the probiotic LPLDL may help reduce LDL cholesterol levels. LPLDL is by ProBiotix Health, a subsidiary of OptiBiotix Health, and is a strain of Lactobacillus plantarum.
The Study
Researchers carried out a parallel, double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized pilot study to analyze the effects of LPLDL in 16 hypercholesterolemic adults. Participants were divided into a placebo group and a group that received 4×109 CFU LPLDL once daily for six weeks.
These were followed by a three-week washout period. In addition, researchers collected fasting blood samples to analyze blood lipids, liver function, and vitamin D levels.
At the end of the six weeks, researchers noted a statistically significant reduction in total and LDL cholesterol levels. For instance, the total cholesterol saw an average reduction of 34.6%, and LDL an average reduction of 28.4%. Researchers observed no changes as far as liver function biomarkers or vitamin D levels were concerned.
Stephen O’Hara, CEO of OptiBiotix Health, gave his thoughts in a January 19th press release:
- “The results of this study are remarkable and firmly establish LPLDL® as the probiotic for heart health. Our previous human intervention studies have highlighted LPLDL® as an excellent candidate to reduce cholesterol across different patient groups and countries. Now, with the statistically significant results of our latest study, both partners and consumers can rest assured they are using a science-backed probiotic that not only reduces total cholesterol, but multiple risk factors associated with CHD. For the industry, this is a significant step forward for a probiotic that can truly make a difference, demonstrating that LPLDL® champions scientific evidence to deliver impressive results.”
Probiotics and Heart Health
Probiotics are live microorganisms that provide a variety of benefits. You can take them as either fermented foods or supplements. These microorganisms support a healthy balance of gut bacteria that can positively affect your overall health.
For example, they can support weight loss, digestive health, immune function, and more. When taken in sufficient amounts, probiotics can even help restore the natural balance of gut bacteria, benefitting your overall health.
Some of the best natural sources of probiotics include tempeh, miso, yogurt, kefir, buttermilk, cheese, kimchi, sauerkraut, pickles, and kombucha. You can also take supplements if you’re not getting enough probiotic-rich foods in your diet.
Speaking of supplements, you can also take some to boost your heart health while you’re at it. For instance, L-arginine Plus is an effective heart supplement that promotes circulation, blood pressure, cholesterol, and more.
If you’re ready to support your health, then start adding probiotic-rich foods to your diet and take L-arginine Plus.