Mastic May Lower Cholesterol

In short: Here we explain what cholesterol is, and summarise what research has investigated about Chios mastic and cholesterol. Mastic is a food supplement that contributes to the normal function of the digestive system — it is not a cholesterol treatment.

What is cholesterol, and why does it matter?

Cholesterol is a fat (lipid) your body needs to function. It travels in the blood bound to proteins; this combination is called a lipoprotein. The main types are:

LDL — “bad” cholesterol

Low-density lipoprotein carries cholesterol around the body. Excess LDL can be deposited in the artery walls, which may then narrow and harden.

HDL — “good” cholesterol

High-density lipoprotein captures excess cholesterol and carries it back to the liver.

Why high cholesterol is a concern

When cholesterol is high, fatty deposits can build up in the blood vessels, making it harder for blood to flow. These deposits can sometimes break and form a clot, which is why high cholesterol is an important risk factor for heart attack and stroke — and why it should be monitored and managed by a doctor.

What has research looked at?

Some studies have investigated Chios mastic in relation to cholesterol and metabolic markers. For example, a 2015 randomized, placebo-controlled pilot study in healthy volunteers (Kartalis et al.) examined mastic’s effect on cholesterol and fasting glucose over 8 weeks, with the largest changes seen in overweight participants and good tolerance reported.

This is early research, attributed to its authors, and does not mean a food supplement can lower cholesterol or replace medical care. You can read a fuller, referenced overview on our research page on Chios mastic and cholesterol.

Looking after your cholesterol

If your cholesterol is high, the most important steps are medical, not supplemental:

1. Follow your doctor’s advice, including any dietary measures and prescribed treatment.
2. Eat a balanced diet and get regular exercise.
3. Have your cholesterol checked and monitored by a healthcare professional.

If you choose to take mastic as a food supplement as part of your routine, follow the dosage on the pack — see our guide to the correct dosage of mastic gum, and choose an authentic Chios mastic product.

Frequently asked questions

Reference

Kartalis A. et al. (2015). Effects of Chios mastic gum on cholesterol and glucose levels of healthy volunteers: a prospective, randomized, placebo-controlled, pilot study (CHIOS-MASTIHA). Eur J Prev Cardiol. PubMed