Cholesterol Support is a blend of scientifically-backed ingredients formulated to target several pathways affecting both cholesterol and triglyceride levels. There are various biological pathways affecting cholesterol production, therefore, Cardiovitamins® believes single-ingredient formulas are limited in their ability to help maintain healthy cholesterol levels overall. Cholesterol Support focuses on higher potencies of key ingredients like plant sterols, policosanol, and guggulipids; all of which have been extensively studied for their beneficial effects on cholesterol levels. Cholesterol Support contains CholestainTM brand plant sterols, Policonsanol PlusTM brand policosanol, Sabinsa brand guggulipids, Daiichi brand Pantethine and Chromate® brand chromium, and Soy LifeTM brand soy bean extract. CholestainTM brand plant sterols: Plant sterols function as cholesterol-lowering agents in the blood by blocking the absorption of cholesterol from food during digestion and also by blocking the re-absorption of cholesterol manufactured in the liver. The USA Food and Drug Administration (FDA) support s the role of plant sterol or plant stanol esters in reducing the risk of coronary heart disease (CHD) for foods containing these substances based on their ability to lower cholesterol levels. Plant sterols are present in small quantities in many fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, cereals, legumes, and other plant sources. Some margarines and spreads contain plant sterols. Policonsanol PlusTM brand policosanol: Policosanol is a natural extract of plant waxes. It is used as a nutritional supplement to lower (bad) LDL cholesterol and increase (good) HDL cholesterol and to help prevent atherosclerosis. Research continues, but some studies indicate that it works by inhibiting cholesterol formation in the liver. Policosanol may increase the effect of medications that interfere with blood clotting or anti-platelet drugs, such as aspirin and other blood thinners, or supplements such as garlic, ginkgo, or high-dose vitamin E.Policosanol may increase the effects and side effects of levodopa, a medication used for Parkinson's disease. Sabinsa brand guggulipids: Guggulipids are fat-soluble extracts from India's myrrh tree. Reseach continues, but guggulipids have been studied in India and used to support healthy cholesterol levels.Daiichi brand Pantethine and Chromate® brand chromium: Pantethine is a derivative of pantothenic acid (vitamin B5). It has been reported by a number of investigators to have a cholesterol and triglyceride lowering effect. Food sources of pantothenic acid include liver, kidney, lean meats, egg yolk, milk, fish, chicken, bran, whole grains, soy products, wheat germ, crude molasses, nuts, legumes, sweet potatoes, broccoli, cauliflower, oranges, strawberries, and beans (except green beans). Chromium is an essential trace mineral that helps to maintain healthy blood sugar levels. Chromium is not made by the body and must be obtained from the diet. It is thought that chromium plays a role in assisting insulin to allow glucose to enter cells and provide the cell with energy. Although studies are ongoing, some believe chromium has demonstrated the ability to improve cholesterol levels in the blood.