Four supplements that BREAK down FAT

If you're looking to lose weight, these options are certainly worth exploring.

Lipids is a medical term for any type of fat you consume, but medical professionals often use it to describe blood fat such as cholesterol. Certain supplements might help your body break down lipids and lower cholesterol. Do consult your physician before you take any supplements, however, especially if you are on any other medication.

Green tea

Green tea, made from unfermented tea leaves, contains a high amount of antioxidants. Green tea extract, available in supplements, might help to lower cholesterol and break down lipids.

The University of Maryland Medical Center states that green tea may lower total cholesterol and raise HDL or good cholesterol. The polyphenols in green tea can block your body from absorbing cholesterol and break down the lipids.

Green tea may also help to boost metabolism and burn fat, according to the University of Maryland.

Fibre, in food or supplements, can help to break down and lower cholesterol. Soluble fibre can reduce the absorption of cholesterol into your bloodstream, according to the Mayo Clinic.

A review published in 2000 in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition examined eight controlled studies that looked at psyllium supplementation found in fibre supplements and cholesterol. Researchers concluded that psyllium supplements significantly lowered total cholesterol in a low-fat diet.

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fats that are necessary for human health. But your body cannot make these fats and they must come from your diet. These acids are found in fatty fish or can be taken as fish oil supplements.

Omega-3 fatty acids might help to break down lipids. The University of Maryland Medical Center states that diets high in omega-3 fatty acids increase good cholesterol and lower bad cholesterol.

Fish oil might help to reduce triglycerides, a type of blood lipid.

Garlic extract can help to reduce cholesterol and break down lipids. It is high in antioxidants, which can help to destroy free radical cells.

A 2004 study published in the Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry examined garlic extract supplementation on blood lipid profiles. Researchers used 23 human volunteers with high cholesterol. Participants took garlic extract supplementation for four months. Researchers found that subjects that took garlic had significantly lower total cholesterol, lower bad cholesterols and lower triglycerides.