SINGAPORE,
\n[March 25, 2026]<\/b> \u2014 Following the release of the National Population Health
\nSurvey 2024, heart health has once again become a central topic of conversation
\nacross the city-state. The data reveals that high blood cholesterol affects
\n30.1% of the population, with a higher prevalence in males (34.1%) and a
\nsignificant increase among seniors aged 60 to 74, where more than one in two
\nindividuals are affected. (60 to 69 years: 54.2%, 70 to 74 years: 58.8%)<\/p>\n
While high
\ncholesterol often requires medical diagnosis and prescription, many
\nSingaporeans are looking for ways to proactively manage their levels through
\nlifestyle and informed supplementation.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Many
\npeople think high cholesterol comes only from food. In reality, about 80% of
\ncholesterol is produced naturally by the liver, <\/b>while
\nonly <\/b>20% comes from dietary intake.\u00a0<\/b>Understanding
\nthis helps in choosing the right strategy to manage heart health.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Not all
\nheart-health ingredients work the same way. To help consumers make an informed
\nchoice, the following guide outlines how common supplements interact with the
\nbody:<\/p>\n
# Targeting
\nTriglycerides:<\/b> Fish Oils are widely used to reduce triglycerides (fats in the
\nblood) but typically have a limited effect on actual cholesterol levels.\u00a0<\/p>\n
# Targeting
\nDietary Intake (The 20%)<\/b>: Plant Sterols and Beta Glucan work by reducing
\ncholesterol absorption from food or binding with bile acids in the digestive
\ntract.<\/p>\n
# Targeting
\nInternal Production (The 80%)<\/b>: Cuban-origin policosanol derived from sugarcane
\nwax is unique in that it targets the actual production of cholesterol within
\nthe body. Clinical evidence also shows it supports the quality and function of
\nHDL (Good Cholesterol), which helps clear excess cholesterol from the arteries.
\nIt is considered safe when taken with statin medications, and recent
\npreclinical study suggests a potential synergistic effect in combination.<\/p>\n
# Other
\nConsiderations<\/b>: Lactobacillus plantarum<\/i> promotes the breakdown of bile
\nsalts, while Red Yeast Rice (containing Monacolin K) is effective but often
\nwarrants careful consideration due to its structural similarity to certain
\nmedications.<\/p>\n
Diet and
\nExercise regardless of the choice of supplement or
\nmedication, healthcare professionals emphasize that they are most effective
\nwhen built upon a strong foundation. A heart-healthy diet and regular physical
\nactivity are non-negotiable components of long-term cardiovascular wellness.<\/p>\n
\u00a0<\/p>\n