If you're thinking of buying a supplement to help control cholesterol levels, a trip to your local drug or health food store may reveal a dizzying array of choices. Ranging from the old-fashioned, such as garlic, to the less common -- and occasionally unpronounceable (policosanol, anyone?) -- it's easy to feel confused and more than a little skeptical. So which (if any) heart-healthy supplements are worth their salt? As we continue our Heart Month series on functional foods and supplements for heart health, we take a closer look at some popular choices.

One of the stranger-sounding supplements on the market, CoQ10 is actually the short-form for coenzyme Q10, or otherwise known as ubiquinone. A key player in energy metabolism, particularly in the production of ATP, the primary currency of energy in the human body, CoQ10 can be obtained through food, or we can produce it ourselves. While most individuals can generate enough CoQ10 to sustain good health, certain medications, including the class of cholesterollowering drugs known as statins, can interfere with this process.

Does that mean those at risk for heart disease should take CoQ10? Though the research is mixed, there is some good evidence to suggest potential benefits, especially for those on medication. In general, CoQ10 supplements seem to lower blood pressure, an important risk factor for heart disease. Research also suggests that taking CoQ10 could help keep the lining of the arteries young and pliable, while other studies indicate it could prevent oxidative damage to LDL, or the so-called "bad" cholesterol. Perhaps most convincing, however, are a series of studies that have demonstrated a link between low circulating levels of CoQ10 and an increased risk of heart failure.

This research, combined with a series of studies that have demonstrated improved cardiac function through CoQ10 supplementation, has led an increasing number of physicians and cardiologists to recommend it to patients. As for dosages, many studies use doses of 60 mg to 200 mg per day, but some use much more; ultimately, the optimal dose still needs to be determined.

As for healthy individuals, while there is little evidence of harm in taking CoQ10 -- the main concerns are possible drops in blood pressure or sugar, which is relevant for those on medications to mititgate these conditions, or for those with naturally low blood pressure -- the reality is that there simply isn't enough evidence to support taking CoQ10 if you're not taking medications.

No matter how hard you try to avoid it, when it comes to maintaining good health, garlic just keeps rearing its odorous head. But does it actually lower cholesterol? According to numerous meta-analyses, most recently in the Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics in 2009, the answer seems to be no -- but there have been enough studies to suggest benefit that many questions still remain. Even if supplemental garlic doesn't lower cholesterol, its natural antimicrobial properties still make it a sensible choice to include in your diet for good health.