High cholesterol is a growing global health concern, with 39% of adults worldwide affected. Managing cholesterol levels is critical for heart health, and while many turn to medications, natural alternatives are gaining attention. One such option? Bergamot, a citrus fruit from Italy, which continues to show promise as an effective, natural cholesterol-lowering solution.

The Latest Research: Bergamot and Cholesterol

A new double-blind study examined the effects of bergamot extract on cholesterol levels in 60 individuals with high LDL (bad) cholesterol. Participants were given either a placebo or 375mg of bergamot extract standardized for 150mg of flavonoids over four months. The results were compelling:

• LDL Cholesterol: The group taking bergamot saw an 11.5% reduction in LDL cholesterol, while the placebo group experienced an increase. The difference was significant.
• HDL Cholesterol: Bergamot initially showed a clear benefit at the three-month mark. By the end of the study, it had increased HDL (good) cholesterol by 5.5%, though the change was just shy of statistical significance.
• Total Cholesterol: Participants taking bergamot experienced an 8.8% reduction in total cholesterol—a significant improvement.
• Triglycerides: Bergamot reduced triglycerides by 16.7%, compared to 7.4% in the placebo group, though this difference was not statistically significant.

What This Means for Heart Health

While bergamot’s ability to boost HDL cholesterol still needs further clarification, previous research strongly supports its benefits. A 2017 systematic review found significant HDL improvements in 8 out of 12 studies (Adv Nutr. 2017), and a more recent meta-analysis of five studies confirmed that bergamot significantly increases HDL cholesterol. Additionally, a 2023 double-blind study demonstrated similar positive effects (Phytother Res. 2023).

This new study strengthens the growing body of evidence that bergamot extract can play a key role in cholesterol management—particularly by reducing harmful LDL cholesterol.

A Natural Path to Better Cholesterol?

With its ability to lower LDL and total cholesterol, bergamot is emerging as a natural, well-tolerated option for those seeking to improve their heart health. While more research is needed to fully understand its impact on HDL cholesterol, its cholesterol-lowering effects make it an exciting option for individuals looking to support their cardiovascular well-being naturally.

Could bergamot be the next big thing in heart health? The evidence is certainly stacking up.