Bergamot is a citrus fruit belonging to the Rutaceae family. For phytotherapeutic purposes, the fruit is mainly used, as it has a high content of polyphenols, particularly flavonoids, which can help combat atherosclerosis due to their hypocholesterolemic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. The ability to lower triglyceride and LDL levels, "bad cholesterol," and to increase HDL levels, "good cholesterol," is attributed to the structure of two specific flavonoids, which act with a mechanism similar to statins (drugs on the market for cholesterol reduction): they inhibit the action of an enzyme in the liver, HMG-CoA reductase, responsible for cholesterol production. Unlike statins, however, bergamot does not cause muscle pain issues, so it can be taken as a safe alternative therapy for cholesterol reduction.
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Hypolipemic and hypoglycaemic activity of bergamot polyphenols: From animal models to human studies Mollace V1, Sacco I, Janda E, Malara C, Ventrice D, Colica C, Visalli V, Muscoli S, Ragusa S, Muscoli C, Rotiroti D, Romeo F. Fitoterapia. 2011 Apr;82(3):309-16. doi: 10.1016/j.fitote.2010.10.014. Epub 2010 Nov 4
Properties: Supports liver function and helps reduce cholesterol levels thanks to its antioxidant and purifying compounds.
The Annurca apple is a variety of PGI bell apple, rich in polyphenols, in particular type B procyanidins, approximately 2-4 times more than other apples. The dry extract of this fruit concentrates the health properties of the product, making it an excellent ally in subjects with hypercholesterolemia. Type B procyanidins, in fact, have an activity similar to statins, without experiencing the same side effects. Some clinical studies show that they have the ability to program cells, so as to eliminate cholesterol when it is too high, thus decreasing the state of inflammation present (a mechanism similar to betas). cyclodextrin).
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A Healthy Balance of Plasma Cholesterol by a Novel Annurca Apple-Based Nutraceutical Formulation:
Results of a Randomized Trial Caruso, Giuseppe Buonomo Maria D'Avino Pietro Campiglia Luciana Marinelli, and Ettore Novellino. Med Food 20 (3) 2017, 288–300
Properties: Rich in oleuropein, they help reduce blood pressure and improve blood circulation.