Improves Cholesterol and Triglyceride Levels, Reducing Heart Disease Risk
Gymnema sylvestre may aid in the reduction of "bad" LDL cholesterol and triglycerides. While Gymnema is most known for its ability to decrease blood sugar levels and reduce sugar cravings, research indicates that it may also alter fat absorption and lipid levels. Gymnema extract helped weight management and inhibited the buildup of liver lipids in rats fed a high-fat diet in one research. In addition, animals fed the extract with a normal-fat diet had decreased triglyceride levels.
Another study discovered that Gymnema extracts reduced obesity in mice fed a high-fat diet. It also reduced levels of blood fat and "bad" LDL cholesterol. Furthermore, in a trial of moderately obese persons, Gymnema extract reduced triglycerides and harmful "LDL" cholesterol by 20.2% and 19%, respectively. It also improved "good" HDL cholesterol levels by 22%. High LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels are risk factors for heart disease. As a result, Gymnema Sylvestre's beneficial effects on LDL and triglyceride levels may lead to a decreased risk of heart disease.