With the rise in incidence of cardiovascular events such as strokes and heart attacks causative factors have been more widely investigated. There are many lifestyle factors that can contribute to cardiovascular health, particularly diet. Consumption of highly processed, high fat, low fiber, sugary foods have been linked to increased total cholesterol levels, triglyceride levels, and blood sugar. These three levels have been directly linked as risk factors for the development of diseases such as diabetes, atherosclerosis, metabolic syndrome, heart disease. As such these are often the targets for treatment as well as prophylaxis. While cholesterol is necessary for a number of physiologic processes in the body, excessive amounts can be detrimental by causing atherosclerosis. Individuals with high cholesterol can reduce overall cholesterol by diet and lifestyle changes as well as drugs or supplements that reduce production or increased excretion of cholesterol. Further the ratio of HDL: LDL is important when discussing cholesterol related risk. Cholesterol found within the low density lipoprotein (LDL-c) along with excess triglycerides can cause the formation of plaques in blood vessels. This can then lead to narrowing of arteries and oxygen deprivation to certain tissues. However, high density lipoproteins scavenger the blood and tissues for free cholesterol and take it back to the liver for excretion. Glucose dysregulation can shift the ratio towards LDL, and can also increase vascular damage. Traditional treatments aim to stop the production of cholesterol in the liver by inhibiting the key enzyme HMG-CoA reductase. However this approach does not increase HDL to remove the excess cholesterol already present, it does not address the glucose dysregulation, further there are many downstream products also inhibited which can cause significant side effects. Therefore a multi-targeted approach would be most beneficial. Bergamot (Citrus Bergamia) found in Cholesterol Control is a citrus fruit found in the coastal Calabrian region of Italy. Bergamot contains diverse and highly concentrated flavonoid profile, making it very beneficial for a number of cardiovascular processes. The polyphenols in bergamot contain properties common to other citrus flavonoids, ie. antioxidant properties. Some of the flavonoids in bergamot have a similar mechanism of action as classic treatment used by cholesterol lowering drugs, with the other flavonoids providing added benefit of also increasing HDL to scavenge free cholesterol. Further, its antioxidant properties can prevent inflammation associated with vascular damage, making this supplement effective in managing the risks associated with cardiovascular concerns. 🇨🇦 Made In Canada
