Ateronorm Plus® – effects on total, HDL- and LDL-cholesterol levels and its hypothetical action on weight control: a pre- and post-observational study

Abstract

Cardiovascular diseases are the primary cause of death worldwide. Elevated levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), known as hypercholesterolaemia, play a direct role in the development of atherosclerosis, a condition where plaque builds up in the arteries. Reducing hypercholesterolaemia and LDL-C levels can lower the risk of cardiovascular events. This observational study examined the effects of the nutraceutical supplement Ateronorm Plus® (marketed by Aquaviva srl) on 30 individuals with mild hypercholesterolaemia. Ateronorm Plus® contains extracts of berberine, red yeast rice (monacolin K and Ka) and Polygonum cuspidatum. After 120 days of treatment, improvements were noted in serum levels of total cholesterol (TC), LDL-C, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and triglycerides (Trig.) compared to baseline values. Specifically, Ateronorm Plus® supplementation was associated with a significant reduction in TC (-21.7%), LDL-C (-26.3%), and Trig. (-16.4%), along with an increase in HDL serum levels (+9.3%). Furthermore, a greater weight loss and improved metabolic parameters were observed in participants undergoing supplementation with Ateronorm Plus® during the study period. Ateronorm Plus® may represent a novel approach and an effective tool for managing mild dyslipidaemia, particularly mild hypercholesterolaemia. However, further large-scale clinical trials are necessary to assess the efficacy, safety and tolerability of the extract mixtures used in the clinical management of dyslipidaemias.