Cholesterol-lowering drugs called statins can have unpleasant side effects, including muscle aches and weakness.
But new research suggests an extract from a bitter, fragrant citrus fruit called bergamot — a common flavoring in Earl Grey tea — can lower cholesterol with minimal side effects. It also boosts good cholesterol, reduces fatty deposits in the liver, and lowers blood sugar, the
Wall Street Journal reports.
The findings are based on four human studies published or presented at scientific meetings. But the Journal notes much of the work is authored by a group of Italian researchers who work closely with a company that sells the extract.
Larger, independent studies in other countries are needed to confirm the results, they say.
Bergamot fruit grows on sunny slopes in Southern Italy and are rich in flavonoids, which likely are the reason for its beneficial effects, says Arrigo Cicero, a scientist with the University of Bologna.
But he adds that he feels additional human studies are needed to prove efficacy.
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