Do Probiotics Lower Cholesterol?

A study presented at the American Heart Association’s Scientific Sessions 2012, shows that after nine weeks of taking two daily doses of a probiotic, LDL cholesterol was lowered by 11.6 percent compared to those on a placebo.

In addition, total cholesterol was reduced by 9.1 percent. HDL and triglycerides were unchanged. The  study suggests that probiotics break up bile salts, leading to reduced cholesterol absorption in the gut and lower LDL levels. The probiotic dose was 200 milligrams per day. The type was L. reuteri. Scientists propose that Lactobacillus alone may also impact cholesterol levels.

Here is my take: It was a small study of 127 patients and half were taking a placebo. The probiotic was fermented and formulated to optimize its effect on cholesterol, so it’s uncertain that taking a supplement or consuming probiotics in food will have the same effect. My BIGGEST concern is that Micropharma funded the study and owns the rights to the probiotic formulation… Do you agree with my concerns? Probiotics are good for you, but more research is needed to make the claim that probiotics lower cholesterol!