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| Artichoke 500 |
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Review
Summary |
 Artichoke 500 is a supplement by Jarrow Formulas®, which promotes numerous other basic supplements. It seems that Artichoke 500 may have some health benefits; we appreciate that it contains a simple extract. The supplement is said to “support liver and cholesterol metabolism.” Nowadays, Artichoke supplements, including Artichoke 500, seem to have become quite popular for lowering LDL levels.
However, there is a growing suspicion that Artichoke may not really have a substantial effect on lowering cholesterol level. While eating cooked Artichokes may be a healthy option, there seems to be no scientific evidence supporting the claim that it may reduce LDL levels. Therefore, we will take a closer look at the Artichoke 500 ingredients, and conclude whether it may really be an effective product with potential benefits, or whether there may be better formulas on the market.
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| Ingredients at a Glance |
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As per the supplement fact sheet posted on the Jarrow Formulas® website, each tablet of Artichoke 500 contains, well, 500 mg Artichoke Extract (Cynara scolymus). This is said to yield 5% Chlorogenic Acid and 5% Cynarin. It is claimed that Artichoke Extract “protects glutathione levels,” thereby aiding with liver function. Furthermore, the Extract is supposed to stimulate synthesis of bile and inhibit oxidation of LDL cholesterol as well.
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| Ingredients in Focus |
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Even though there may be some potentially misleading and unfounded claims by some people, at the time of this review, the website does not provide evidence backing these claims. It may be that Artichoke may provide some overall health benefit; we are unable to verify how taking it in supplemental form may be any better. Therefore, an individual may wish to take a formula that supplies Phytosterols, which are cholesterol-like compounds found in plant products. These Plant Sterols have been exhaustively reviewed and analyzed to be valuable in lowering serum cholesterol.
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| Lifestyle |
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If an individual has a history of high cholesterol and is over the age of 20, then it is said to be important to have blood cholesterol levels analyzed every couple of years. Furthermore, it may be a good idea to watch your diet. However, it may be asking too much of oneself to give up red meats or eggs and other food items that are otherwise healthy and desirable but for their high cholesterol. Therefore, it may be an attractive option to take an all-natural supplement, as opposed to prescription drugs with potentially dangerous side effects, that cuts down LDL levels without requiring a person to change their diet lifestyle.
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| Positives |
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• Is a basic formula that may have some benefits
• Manufacturer has official online presence
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| Negatives |
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• Only contains 500 mg of Artichoke Extract
• No money-back guarantees at the time of this review
• Exclusive product website not available at the time of this review
• Artichoke in supplemental form may not be scientifically verified for results
• May not do anything to meaningfully lower LDL levels
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| Final Thoughts |
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It has been widely established that abnormally high levels of LDL may significantly increase the risk of heart disease. Hypercholesterolemia is actually quite a common problem; therefore, a lot of generic and brand-name drugs may be available for the condition. Of course, it is an option to go with prescription drugs. However, for many of us, the potentially dangerous side effects may not be attractive.
Given the causes of hypercholesterolemia and its effects, it is strongly recommended to take a course of action and actively try to lower LDL levels. Exercising and being careful of your diet is important. However, such actions alone may not be enough. In light of all the evidence and research-based findings, it may be wise to supplement a diet with Phytosterols.
However, natural foods usually have only trace amounts of these Plant Sterols. Therefore, it may be a good idea to take up a trustworthy supplement in a capsule form with certified Plant Sterols. Some clinical studies seem to suggest that over 1000 mg of Phytosterols may significantly lower LDL levels.
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