Supplements That Can Increase Cholesterol and How to Manage It

December 11, 2025 •

3 min read

While many supplements are marketed for health benefits, studies show that certain ones can adversely impact blood lipid levels. This article explores some of the most common supplements and how they can increase cholesterol, affecting your heart health.

Quick Summary

An overview of supplements that may increase cholesterol levels, including fish oil, iron, and others. The article discusses how these supplements affect LDL and total cholesterol and provides guidance on risk management.

Key Points

Fish Oil Caution: Unregulated over-the-counter fish oil can contain impurities and a DHA component that may increase LDL cholesterol, though it effectively lowers triglycerides.
Iron Dosage: High-dose iron supplements can elevate total and LDL cholesterol, so it is crucial to only take them under a doctor's supervision if a deficiency exists.
Vitamin D Variability: Studies on vitamin D's effect on cholesterol are inconsistent, with some research showing a slight increase in LDL and other analyses demonstrating a decrease, suggesting individual responses vary.
Creatine's Mild Impact: While large doses of creatine may cause a minor increase in cholesterol, many studies show minimal effect on LDL and a positive effect on lowering triglycerides, especially with standard use.
Prioritize Lifestyle: Supplements should complement a healthy lifestyle, not replace it. Diet, exercise, and reducing saturated fats are the most impactful ways to manage cholesterol.
Always Consult a Doctor: Before starting any new supplement, discuss it with a healthcare professional, especially if you have heart health concerns or are on medication.

Understanding Cholesterol and Supplement Interactions

Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance essential for bodily functions, but high levels can contribute to heart disease. It is carried in the blood by lipoproteins, with LDL (bad) cholesterol contributing to arterial buildup and HDL (good) cholesterol helping to remove excess cholesterol. While diet and genetics play significant roles, certain supplements can also impact cholesterol levels.

Fish Oil Supplements

Fish oil is known for its omega-3 fatty acids and triglyceride-lowering effects. However, its impact on LDL cholesterol, especially with over-the-counter varieties, is less straightforward. Some studies indicate that DHA in fish oil might slightly increase LDL cholesterol, which is a concern for those already managing high LDL. Over-the-counter supplements lack strict regulation, meaning quality and purity vary, and some may contain saturated fats that could further raise cholesterol. Prescription fish oil, used for very high triglycerides, has a different formulation and doesn't carry the same LDL risks.

Iron Supplements

Iron is crucial for preventing anemia, but high-dose supplementation, particularly in those without a deficiency, can lead to higher cholesterol. Excess iron can increase LDL and total cholesterol while decreasing antioxidants, contributing to an unhealthy lipid profile. This effect is often linked to higher doses. It is recommended to have iron levels checked by a doctor before supplementing to avoid potential negative effects on cholesterol.

Vitamin D Supplements

The relationship between vitamin D and cholesterol is not consistently clear in research. Some studies suggest adequate vitamin D is associated with better lipid profiles, while others indicate a possible negative effect. Some research shows vitamin D might increase LDL, while other analyses indicate it decreases LDL. These differences may be due to factors like baseline vitamin D levels, dosage, and individual health. Any potential cholesterol effects from vitamin D should be monitored by a healthcare professional.

Creatine Supplements

Creatine is popular for muscle growth and performance, but some evidence suggests high doses might slightly increase cholesterol. The effect seems dose-dependent, with higher intake potentially leading to minor elevations. However, many clinical trials found minimal to no effect on total or LDL cholesterol, often noting a positive effect on lowering triglycerides. Concerns about increased cholesterol are usually tied to excessive use.

Supplements and Cholesterol: A Comparison


Supplement	Effect on LDL Cholesterol	Effect on Triglycerides	Notes & Considerations
Over-the-Counter Fish Oil	May cause a slight increase, particularly due to DHA.	Highly effective at reducing high levels.	Quality and purity can vary widely; may contain unwanted saturated fats.
Prescription Fish Oil	Minimal to no effect, or can alter LDL particle size favorably.	Significantly reduces very high levels.	Regulated and medically monitored for severe hypertriglyceridemia.
Iron Supplements	Can elevate levels, especially with high doses.	May also increase levels.	Only supplement if a deficiency is confirmed by a doctor.
Vitamin D Supplements	Inconsistent findings; some studies show a slight increase, others a decrease.	Generally shows beneficial effects, especially in deficient individuals.	Effects are complex and may depend on individual factors and dosage.
Creatine	Minor or minimal effect, especially at higher doses.	Often helps to lower triglycerides.	Primarily impacts athletic performance; consult a doctor for heart concerns.

How to Safely Manage Supplements and Cholesterol

If you are taking supplements and have concerns about cholesterol, consult a healthcare professional. They can assess your risk and monitor your lipid levels.

Healthy Lifestyle First: Supplements are not a substitute for a healthy lifestyle. Diet, exercise, and avoiding unhealthy fats are key to managing cholesterol.
Choose Quality Supplements: Opt for reputable brands with third-party testing (like NSF or USP) for quality and purity, especially with unregulated over-the-counter products.
Monitor Levels: Regular check-ups and lipid panel tests can track cholesterol changes related to supplements or lifestyle.
Consider Food Sources: Getting nutrients like omega-3s from whole foods like fatty fish is often safer and more beneficial than relying on unregulated supplements.

Conclusion

While supplements can be beneficial, be aware of their potential to affect cholesterol. Over-the-counter fish oil, high-dose iron, and certain doses of vitamin D and creatine have been linked to increased cholesterol in some studies. Understanding these risks, consulting a healthcare provider, and prioritizing a healthy lifestyle are essential for protecting heart health. Supplements should complement, not replace, established strategies for managing cholesterol. The American Heart Association offers resources for a heart-healthy diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, some over-the-counter fish oil supplements can slightly increase LDL cholesterol, particularly due to the DHA content. The purity and dosage in these products are less regulated than prescription versions, and they may contain saturated fats that contribute to this rise.

You should only take iron supplements if your doctor has confirmed you have an iron deficiency. High doses of iron can elevate total and LDL cholesterol levels, negatively impacting your lipid profile. Always get medical advice before supplementing.

Creatine generally has a minimal impact on cholesterol. Some studies have noted a slight increase with very large doses, but many trials show no change in LDL or total cholesterol, and often a reduction in triglycerides.

The research on vitamin D and cholesterol is inconsistent. While some smaller studies found an increase in LDL cholesterol with supplementation, larger analyses have shown a decrease. The effect likely depends on your baseline levels and dosage, so it is best to discuss it with a doctor.

The safest way is to consume omega-3s from whole food sources like fatty fish (salmon, mackerel) at least twice a week. Prescription-strength fish oil, when medically appropriate, is also highly regulated.

Choose supplements that have been third-party tested by independent organizations like NSF or USP. This ensures the product's purity and that it contains the ingredients listed on the label. Always consult your doctor before starting a new supplement.

Focus on a heart-healthy diet rich in soluble fiber (oats, fruits, vegetables), engage in regular physical activity, and limit saturated and trans fats. These habits form the foundation for maintaining healthy cholesterol levels.