Over-the-counter heart supplements not good for lowering cholesterol
(CNN, KYMA/KECY) - The six most commonly used over the counter supplements for heart health do not help lower cholesterol.
Though ads may say fish oil, garlic, cinnamon, turmeric, red yeast rice and plant sterols are heart-healthy, that may not be the case.
According to a new study in the American Journal of Cardiology, in a side by side comparison with a statin medication and placebo, they failed.
Only the statin prescription medication actually reduced cholesterol and triglyceride levels by a significant amount.
One author called the so-called heart healthy vitamins and supplements, "Snake oil".
Researchers say most American adults are unaware that most dietary supplements are not tested in double-blind clinical trials.
