Improved HDL, LDL and total cholesterol levels following a 3-month administration of Mentha spicata leaf extract and Amaranthus caudatus seed flour extracts, flavonoids and B vitamins. A placebo-controlled, double-blind, randomized clinical trial

Background and aims: We have evaluated the efficacy and tolerability of two food supplements (FS) containing flavonoids (naringin and hesperidin); same doses of B3, B6, B9 and B12 vitamins, and two different doses of a blend of Mentha spicata leaf extract and Amaranthus caudatus seed flour, in subjects with borderline high total (TC) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels. Methods and results: 114 Participants (18–70 years) with TC levels 200–239 mg/dL, (5.18–6.19 mmol/L) and LDL-C (<159 mg/dL) were randomised into three groups to receive for 90 days the lowest (n = 38, Treatment A), the highest dose of the FS (n = 38 – Treatment B), or placebo (n = 38). Treatment B was associated with a significant reduction in LDL-C (∼31.5 mg/dL;-22%) and TC (∼19.5 mg/dL; -9%), along with an increase in high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C). The greater efficacy of Treatment B containing the highest dose of vegetable extracts is likely attributable to its higher M. spicata extract content, as judged by high-resolution mass spectrometry analysis of the preparation. Conclusion: The combination of different FS ingredients with different mechanisms of action can be a valuable strategy for improving lipid profiles in subjects with borderline high TC and LDL-C levels.