SINGAPORE,
[March 25, 2026] — Following the release of the National Population Health
Survey 2024, heart health has once again become a central topic of conversation
across the city-state. The data reveals that high blood cholesterol affects
30.1% of the population, with a higher prevalence in males (34.1%) and a
significant increase among seniors aged 60 to 74, where more than one in two
individuals are affected. (60 to 69 years: 54.2%, 70 to 74 years: 58.8%)
While high
cholesterol often requires medical diagnosis and prescription, many
Singaporeans are looking for ways to proactively manage their levels through
lifestyle and informed supplementation.
Many
people think high cholesterol comes only from food. In reality, about 80% of
cholesterol is produced naturally by the liver, while
only 20% comes from dietary intake. Understanding
this helps in choosing the right strategy to manage heart health.
Not all
heart-health ingredients work the same way. To help consumers make an informed
choice, the following guide outlines how common supplements interact with the
body:
# Targeting
Triglycerides: Fish Oils are widely used to reduce triglycerides (fats in the
blood) but typically have a limited effect on actual cholesterol levels.
# Targeting
Dietary Intake (The 20%): Plant Sterols and Beta Glucan work by reducing
cholesterol absorption from food or binding with bile acids in the digestive
tract.
# Targeting
Internal Production (The 80%): Cuban-origin policosanol derived from sugarcane
wax is unique in that it targets the actual production of cholesterol within
the body. Clinical evidence also shows it supports the quality and function of
HDL (Good Cholesterol), which helps clear excess cholesterol from the arteries.
It is considered safe when taken with statin medications, and recent
preclinical study suggests a potential synergistic effect in combination.
# Other
Considerations: Lactobacillus plantarum promotes the breakdown of bile
salts, while Red Yeast Rice (containing Monacolin K) is effective but often
warrants careful consideration due to its structural similarity to certain
medications.
Diet and
Exercise regardless of the choice of supplement or
medication, healthcare professionals emphasize that they are most effective
when built upon a strong foundation. A heart-healthy diet and regular physical
activity are non-negotiable components of long-term cardiovascular wellness.
This press release has also been published on VRITIMES
