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Bergamot Extract (Citrus Bergamia Polyphenol Extract)

Category: Cardiovascular. Status: Dietary supplement.

A polyphenol-rich citrus extract from Calabrian bergamot with statin-like HMGCR inhibition. Reduces LDL cholesterol, improves HDL, and lowers blood glucose - making it a natural alternative or adjunct to statin therapy for metabolic health.

How it works

Polyphenolic flavonoids (brutieridin, melitidin) inhibit HMG-CoA reductase (same target as statins). Activates AMPK for fat oxidation. Reduces PCSK9 expression. Improves LDL receptor recycling for enhanced cholesterol clearance.

Key facts

  • Molecular weight: Complex polyphenol mixture
  • Half-life: ~4-6 hours
  • Bioavailability: ~15-25% (polyphenol absorption)
  • Storage: Room temperature. Protect from light.

Dosing overview

  • Typical dose: 500-1000 mg standardized extract
  • Frequency: Daily with meals
  • Duration: Ongoing (8-12 weeks for lipid effects)
  • Route: Oral capsule

Reported benefits

  • LDL cholesterol reduction (20-35%)
  • HDL improvement
  • Blood glucose stabilization
  • Triglyceride reduction
  • Statin alternative/adjunct
  • No muscle pain side effects

Possible side effects

  • Mild GI discomfort (rare)
  • Potential drug interactions (CYP3A4)
  • Heartburn in sensitive individuals

Research

  • Bergamot extract and dyslipidemia (2022): Meta-analysis of 12 trials showed LDL reduction of 24%, triglyceride reduction of 30%, and HDL increase of 22% with 500-1000mg/day BPF.
  • Bergamot as statin adjunct (2021): Adding bergamot to half-dose rosuvastatin achieved equivalent lipid lowering to full-dose statin alone, with fewer myalgia complaints.

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Research and educational reference only. Not medical advice.