Which supplement works better to increase HDL (good) cholesterol levels: alpha-linolenic acid or tart cherry?
Ratings at a Glance
| Supplement | Effectiveness Rating | Confidence Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha-Linolenic Acid | ![]() ![]() ![]() |
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| Tart Cherry | ![]() ![]() ![]() |
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Effectiveness Rating: Alpha-Linolenic Acid vs Tart Cherry
The effectiveness rating is a measure of the supplements' ability to increase HDL (good) cholesterol levels. This rating answers the question of whether or not a supplement does what it claims. The evidence shows neither alpha-linolenic acid nor tart cherry has the ability to increase HDL (good) cholesterol levels. Neither supplement will provide positive results for this claim.
Confidence Rating: Alpha-Linolenic Acid vs Tart Cherry
Another factor to take into account when comparing supplements is the confidence rating. This rating is a measure of how valid each supplement's effectiveness rating is. Remember, the confidence rating is a measure of how much you can trust the effectiveness rating. This rating is based on how many studies are included in the database on a supplement's claims. Ideally, you want a high effectiveness AND confidence rating.
Both alpha-linolenic acid and tart cherry have low confidence ratings. This means neither supplement has an adequate amount of research to back up this claim. A low confidence rating questions the validity of the effectiveness rating.

