Citrus Bergamot Lowers LDL

BRADENTON, Fla.A new human clinical trial involving 82 dyslipidemic patients showed Bergamot (Citrus bergamia Risso)  significantly reduced total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), triglycerides, blood glucose level and significantly increased high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol.

 The human clinical trial, involving 82 dyslipidemic patients with total cholesterol and triglycerides at more than 250, gave either one or two 500-mg capsules of Citrus Bergamot Polyphenolic Extract (from HP Ingredients) for 30 days. At the end of the 30 days, the research showed an average of 31.44 percent reduction in total cholesterol, a 42.82-percent increase in HDL cholesterol, a 38.84-percent reduction in LDL cholesterol, a 41.54-percent reduction in triglycerides, and a 21.93-percent decrease in blood glucose levels.

Lead researcher, Vincenzo Mollace, Ph.D., M.D., professor at the faculty of pharmacy, University Magna Graecia, Catanzaro, Italy, was encouraged by the results. In four weeks, we saw a significant reduction in total cholesterol, LD, and triglycerides among these dyslipidemic patients who had elevated cholesterol levels and high risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD). In addition, we are seeing a significant increase in HDL, the good cholesterol and reduction in blood glucose as well, he said.