Researchers from the University of
Missouri, Kansas City, tested annatto’s effect on cholesterol. Thirty-one men
and women were given varying doses of annatto (125 mg-750 mg) for 30 weeks.
After just 4 weeks, those receiving the optimal dose (250 mg) of annatto showed
significantly lowered cholesterol levels:
- A 15% decline in total cholesterol
- A 18% decline in LDL cholesterol
- A 14% decline in triglycerides
Higher doses of annatto showed no
effect on cholesterol levels. Researchers believe annatto is able to lower cholesterol by suppressing the enzyme responsible for the body’s
cholesterol production. The annatto extract also reduced inflammatory cytokines
and their gene expression by as much as 64%. Inflammation is the primary
precursor of heart disease! The study was published in the British Journal of Medicine and Medical
Research.
Natural Doesn’t Always Mean Safe
Throughout the 30 weeks of the study
no adverse side effects were found, however, annatto has been shown to cause
rare allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Do not supplement with
annatto if you are pregnant or nursing. Annatto may increase and decrease blood
sugar levels, so exercise caution if you are diabetic, or have a surgical
procedure on the horizon.
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