Nutra-Life Cholesterol Balance #1453272537

Double action cardiovascular formula with heart health herbs plus phytosterols to lower cholesterol absorption. Phytosterols, also known as plant sterols, are cholesterol-like compounds that are found mostly in plants such as whole grains, fruits, legumes, vegetable oils, nuts and vegetables.

• Maintaining healthy cholesterol levels in healthy individuals
• Improving HDL (good cholesterol)/LDL (bad cholesterol) ratio
• Supporting healthy heart function, blood vessels and circulation
• Reducing cholesterol absorption
• Protecting the heart and blood vessels from free radical damage

• Double action heart formula: phytosterols to reduce cholesterol absorption plus antioxidants Garlic and Globe Artichoke to support heart and circulatory health
• Phytosterols, sourced from plants, work by reducing cholesterol absorption from the intestines and can help to lower LDL (bad) cholesterol by 10%
• Includes antioxidant Vitamin E to help protect the heart, arteries and veins from free radical damage
• Also contains Vitamin D to support heart health

• Always read the label; take only as directed; and if symptoms persist, consult a healthcare professional
• Customers taking prescription medications or with established medical conditions should consult their healthcare professional before using this product
• Not recommended for use by pregnant or breastfeeding women

What are phytosterols? Phytosterols, also known as plant sterols, are cholesterol-like compounds that are found mostly in plants such as whole grains, fruits, legumes, vegetable oils, nuts and vegetables. Although more than 40 types of plant sterols have been discovered, the most abundant are beta-sitosterol, campesterol, and stigmasterol.

What effect do phytosterols have on cholesterol? Phytosterols work in a similar way to cholesterol in the body. In the human body, natural cholesterol is produced in the liver. Cholesterol is a necessary component of cell membranes, and is required to synthesise sex hormones and vitamins. However, over time, high levels of dietary cholesterol from animal products can increase blood cholesterol, which may then lead to fatty plaque build-up in the arteries and heart disease.

A diet rich in phytosterols is known to reduce blood cholesterol. This is because cholesterol – from both food and the liver – is normally absorbed through the small intestine, and then circulates into the bloodstream. Phytosterols, however, are less easy for the small intestine to absorb; so they are excreted out of the body instead of entering the bloodstream. As they do this, they appear to enhance cholesterol excretion, interfere with its production, and compete for cholesterol receptor sites in the intestinal walls. Indeed, studies have found that phytosterols can stop or slow absorption of both dietary cholesterol and cholesterol made by the liver.

Why are antioxidants important for heart health? Free radical damage to artery wall cells is one factor that can contribute to cholesterol plaque build-up within the arteries. Long-term accumulation of this build-up may lead to high blood pressure and increase the risk of blood clots, which may lead to eventual heart attacks or strokes. Globe Artichoke, Garlic and Vitamin E all act as powerful antioxidants that can help to prevent such damage from free radical molecules.