Efficacy of probiotic intervention in reducing LDL cholesterol in subjects with hypercholesterolemia: a systematic review

Identifier:  TFM:2498

Handle: https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11797/TFM2498

Authors:  Torras Amengual, Marina

Abstract:
Probiotics such as Lactobacillus reuteri, L. plantarum, L. paracasei, and Bifidobacterium longum significantly reduced LDL-C in subjects with hypercholesterolemia (>130 mg/dL) across 15 randomized controlled trials (2010–2025). Efficacy varied depending on the strain, dosage, and treatment duration, involving mechanisms such as the BSH enzyme and the modulation of FXR/LXR receptors. However, methodological heterogeneity and limited dietary control constrain the generalizability of the findings. These results support the potential of probiotics as an adjunct therapy for hypercholesterolemia, yet further standardized, long-term studies are required to confirm their efficacy and clinical applicability regarding cardiovascular disease.