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Can probiotics help lower cholesterol?

Reviewed and edited by Tod Cooperman, M.D. cooperman.png

Initially Posted: 02/16/2014 | Last Updated: 08/08/2017

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Answer:

Yes, certain probiotics, such as Lactobacillus reuteri NCIMB 30242 (Cardioviva) and E. faecium M-74, have been shown to modestly lower LDL ("bad") cholesterol levels in people with elevated cholesterol, although  they  do not raise levels of HDL ("good") cholesterol. For details about these probiotics, dosage, and potential concerns, see the What It Does section of the Probiotic Supplements Review>>

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