Cholesterol reducing foods - Strawberry Yogurt Drink - Benecol UK (2024)

FAQs

Do Benecol drinks really lower cholesterol? ›

Absolutely! More than 80 independent clinical studies prove that plant stanol ester – the active ingredient in Benecol – can reduce cholesterol. 67 of these studies are randomised placebo -controlled trials (RCTs), which are regarded as the 'gold standard' of scientific evidence, and for good reason!

But the winner had to be Aldi's 'Brooklea Cholesterol Yogurt Drinks'. They came in a bumper pack, with two extra bottles. When I took the outer cardboard packaging away, there were no labels on each bottle which I didn't like.

Evidence consistently shows a daily intake of 1.5-2.4 grams of plant sterols or stanols can help reduce cholesterol levels by 7-10% over 2-3 weeks. This amount is the same no matter whether you're looking at a store-brand product, or a more boutique alternative like Benecol's Yoghurt Drink.

Benecol foods with added plant stanols are not nutritionally appropriate for pregnant or breastfeeding women and children under five years old – unless a doctor or other heath professional has advised them. This is because cholesterol is important for normal growth.

Benecol foods have been found as a way to reduce cholesterol and they also can help lower cholesterol in people that are taking statins. However, it is important that those already taking cholesterol lowering medication consult with their GP (Primary Care Physician) before embarking on dietary cholesterol programmes.

Years of research into plant stanol ester – the active ingredient in Benecol justifies Benecol products price premium.

The plant stanols in Benecol products are designed to help lower cholesterol levels in people who have raised levels, so are not intended for people who do not need to control their blood cholesterol. That said, they might also be useful for helping to maintain cholesterol levels within a healthy range, as you age.

Oatmeal, oat bran and high-fiber foods

Soluble fiber is also found in such foods as kidney beans, Brussels sprouts, apples and pears. Soluble fiber can reduce the absorption of cholesterol into your bloodstream. Five to 10 grams or more of soluble fiber a day decreases your LDL cholesterol.

What should I drink first in the morning to lower my cholesterol? ›

Cholesterol-lowering foods

1) Oatmeal, oat bran and high-fiber foods. Foods high in soluble fiber help reduce the absorption of cholesterol into your bloodstream. Soluble fiber is also found in kidney beans, apples, pears, barley and prunes. 2) Fish and omega-3 fatty acids.

Cholesterol is often high due to excessive saturated and trans fat consumption. There are certain drinks that can help maintain an ideal cholesterol level. Some of the best drinks for cholesterol management include green tea, pomegranate juice, citrus juice, soy milk, plant-based smoothies, and red wine.

Pears and apples have a lot of pectin, which is a type of fiber that can lower cholesterol. So do citrus fruits like oranges and lemons. Berries are also high in fiber. Try this Pear and Red Onion Gratin as a side dish.

Benecol and HEART UK

A daily intake of 1.5 to 2.4g of plant stanols lowers cholesterol by 7-10% in just two to three weeks, when eaten as part of a varied, balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle, which includes your '5-a-day'.

Can I consume more than 1 bottle of VITAPLUS Benecol® a day? It is recommended to consume 1 bottle a day. One bottle of VITAPLUS Benecol® delivers 2g plant stanols that on average reduce LDL cholesterol by 7-10% in 2-3 weeks when consumed with a meal.

Raisio claims that Benecol has no side-effects, although some studies have suggested that it lowers levels of carotenoids such as vitamin A. They say 200,000 people in Finland have eaten their product daily for three years without ill effects.