Certain Foods and Nutrients May Help Restore HDL’s Protective Enzyme, PON1
This review looked at an enzyme called paraoxonase-1 (PON1), which sits on HDL (‘good’) cholesterol particles and helps them act as antioxidants and support cholesterol removal from the body. In chronic inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, PON1 can become inactive or displaced, causing HDL to lose its protective, anti-inflammatory qualities.
Researchers reviewed 23 randomized controlled trials published between 2010 and 2024 that tested whether various nutraceuticals could support PON1 activity. Compounds studied included anthocyanins (plant pigments found in berries), omega-3 fatty acids, chlorogenic acid, carotenoids like lycopene and astaxanthin, green tea catechins (EGCG), vitamin E, resveratrol, and berberine.
Anthocyanins had the most consistent supporting evidence across trials, at daily amounts roughly comparable to one cup of blueberries. Omega-3 fatty acids were examined in four trials as well. One lycopene trial found a reduction in an inflammatory marker attached to HDL, suggesting a possible way PON1 function might be restored.
What this means for you
This review suggests that certain plant compounds and nutrients, including anthocyanins and omega-3 fatty acids, have been studied for their potential to support the activity of PON1, an enzyme linked to HDL’s antioxidant function. Most of this research was done in general populations rather than people with inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, so more targeted studies are needed before firm conclusions can be drawn for those groups.
Ready to start? The ALP Protocol delivers the EPA & DHA doses used in the research.
Start the ALP ProtocolThis summary is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always talk to your healthcare provider before making changes to your supplement routine.