ConsumerLab.com evaluates cholesterol-lowering supplements — Test results available for over 90 products; Review of nine popular ingredients

WHITE PLAINS, NY — AUGUST 1, 2006 — ConsumerLab.com has released a major new review of dietary supplements used to improve cholesterol and triglyceride levels. According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, about 50 percent of American adults have elevated blood cholesterol levels, a key risk factor for heart disease. The new report provides test results for sixteen products made with sterols, policosanol, and/or guggulsterones and links to recent reviews of seventy-five additional products made with fish oil, garlic, niacin, and soy protein. The new report summarizes the evidence for these potential cholesterol-lowering ingredients as well as for red yeast rice and stanols.

"The right supplements can help reduce LDLs and triglycerides by up to 15% and 35%, respectively, and as raise HDLs by up to 35%," said Tod Cooperman, M.D., president of ConsumerLab.com. "Recent evidence, however, has put some ingredients other in doubt. But even the most effective ingredients won't work if your supplement doesn't deliver the right dose or passes unused through your body." ConsumerLab.com testing found a sterol-containing supplement would not release its ingredients, and two guggulsterone-containing products each provided less than half the ingredient expected.

Brands tested include AccuTech (CholesBlock), Albi, Carlson, Essential Phytosterolins (ModuChol), FutureBiotics, GNC, Health From the Sun/Arkopharma (Basikol), Kaire, Life Extension, Lifewise Naturals, Nature's Formulary, Olympian Labs, Puritan's Pride, Rx Vitamins, Vitamin World, and Window Rock (Relestrol).

The new report is now available to ConsumerLab.com subscribers at www.consumerlab.com/results/cholest.asp. Sixteen products are included: thirteen selected for testing by CL and three certified through CL's Voluntary Certification Program. Also listed are two products similar to ones that passed but sold under different brand names. The report provides test results, ingredient comparisons, and information about how to buy and use the supplements and their potential side effects. Dozens of other products are included in linked reviews of fish oil, garlic, niacin, and soy protein supplements.

Reviews of other popular types of supplements are available at https://www.consumerlab.com/results/index.asp. New reviews to be released in coming months cover CoQ10, DHEA, probiotics, supplements used for muscle enhancement (creatine, HMB, and amino acids), valerian, and zinc supplements. The paperback ConsumerLab.com's Guide to Buying Vitamins and Supplements: What's Really in the Bottle? is available in bookstores, online, or through 800-431-1579.

ConsumerLab.com is a leading provider of consumer information and independent evaluations of products that affect health and nutrition. The company is privately held and based in Westchester, New York. It has no ownership from, or interest in, companies that manufacture, distribute, or sell consumer products. ConsumerLab.com is affiliated with PharmacyChecker.com, an evaluator of online pharmacies, and MedicareDrugPlans.com, which reviews and rates Medicare Part D plans. Subscription to ConsumerLab.com is available online. For group subscriptions or product testing contact Lisa Sabin, Vice President for Business Development, at lisa.sabin@consumerlab.com.



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