Supplement

  What is the value of the following to reduce cholestrol?
  1. grape seed extract,
  2. niacin/folic acid (Kowalski - 8 Week Cholestrol Cure), and
  3. vitamin E,C,Beta Carotene (Oxidation of free radicals - Ornish)?
  Had bypass, and trying to reduce cholestrol from 203 (115LDL) without medication.  Beside diet and exercise, would you comment on the effectiveness and value of each and suggested supplements and recommended dosage if you think they have any value.  

[CCF Cardio MD - MTR]

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Dear Bob, thank you for your question.  Grape seed extract has no benefit.  Niacin is known to be an excellent agent to reduce cholesterol, but most people can't tolerate the severe flushing that usually follows each dose of niacin.  This side effect can be reduced by taking aspirin with each dose and by very slowly increasing the dose from an initial low dose.  However, niacin should only be used if your physician gives his approval.  Vitamin E,C, and beta-carotene are anti-oxidants that scavenge free radicals.  These agents do not reduce cholesterol but they may favorably influence atherosclerotic plaques.  The bottom line is that niacin will help if you can tolerate it, antioxidants may help but won't reduce cholesterol, and grape seed extract is useless.  As I previously wrote, the best way to lower your cholesterol is to eat a low-fat, low-cholesterol diet and to engage in moderate intensity aerobic exercise daily.  Good luck!
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