Benefits
Healthy cholesterol levels
Bergamot flavonoids have reduced total and LDL cholesterol and triglycerides in clinical studies, while supporting HDL, making it a popular natural option for lipid management.
Small dense LDL
Research found bergamot lowered the small, dense LDL particles most associated with cardiovascular risk, a more refined benefit than total LDL alone.
Cardiovascular support
Through its lipid and antioxidant effects, bergamot is studied for supporting blood-vessel health and reducing markers of subclinical atherosclerosis.
Mechanism of action
HMG-CoA reductase modulation
Brutieridin and melitidin have a statin-like structure and can mildly inhibit HMG-CoA reductase, the enzyme that controls cholesterol synthesis.
Antioxidant flavonoids
The flavonoid mix reduces oxidative modification of LDL and supports endothelial function, contributing to the cardiovascular benefit.
Clinical trials
Clinical study of standardized bergamot flavonoid extract on plasma lipids and atherogenic LDL. (Toth et al. 2015, Frontiers in Pharmacology)
Adults with elevated lipids.
Bergamot significantly reduced total and LDL cholesterol, triglycerides, and small dense LDL while improving markers of subclinical atherosclerosis.