Bergamot (Citrus bergamia), a citrus fruit from southern Italy, is renowned for its various health benefits, particularly its support of the immune system and heart health. Recent studies show the cholesterol-lowering benefits of bergamot, thanks to its unique compounds:

• Brutieridin: A flavonoid that helps reduce LDL cholesterol and has anti-inflammatory properties.
• Melitidin: Another flavonoid that works synergistically with brutieridin to lower total and LDL cholesterol levels.
• Flavonoids: The following compounds, including flavones, flavone O-glucosides, and C-glucosides, possess antioxidant properties that protect against cellular damage and support cardiovascular health.

The compounds work together to create an effective and natural way to support cholesterol levels.

Clinical Trials and Tolerability

Participants tolerated bergamot well in clinical trials, and researchers used it to lower cholesterol. The duration of the studies varied, ranging from 30 days to 6 months. Important points include:

• Researchers measured each patient’s cholesterol levels before and after the study, providing valid control data.
• Notably, three studies showed that bergamot could increase (good cholesterol) HDL by up to 4 mg/dL, which is significant since HDL is typically hard to improve through means other than lifestyle changes.

Expanded Role of Bergamot in Cholesterol Control

• Activation of AMPK: The enzyme plays a role in energy balance and can help reduce cholesterol.
• Blocking Pancreatic Cholesterol Ester Hydrolase (pCEH): The enzyme influences how the body processes cholesterol, and its inhibition can help lower cholesterol levels.

Where to Find Bergamot

Fresh bergamot oranges are the only natural source of bergamot, but they can be hard to find in American stores and are available only for a few months in winter. Although you can eat bergamot raw, its sour and bitter taste isn’t for everyone.

Few store-bought foods contain fresh bergamot or its extract. Earl Grey tea, which contains bergamot extract, is one exception. However, many people don’t enjoy the distinct flavor of bergamot. More research is needed to determine if drinking Earl Grey tea offers the same benefits as bergamot extract.

The easiest way to add bergamot to your daily routine is through dietary supplements made with bergamot fruit extract. The supplements typically contain 500 milligrams of bergamot extract per serving, the same amount used in several studies showing significant results.