Citrus Bergamot
Also known as: Bergamot, Bergamot extract, BPF
Standardized polyphenol extract from the bergamot fruit, used to support cholesterol balance — popular on cycle to counter the lipid impact of anabolic use.
Substance family
Vitamins, minerals, amino acids and enzymes. The recurring pattern: correcting an actual deficiency helps, supplementing beyond a normal level generally does not.
Effects on
Which outcomes this substance acts on — descriptive, not a recommendation.
Strain profile
Where this substance is most likely to hit — a rough orientation, individually dependent on dose, duration and predisposition.
This substance works against
Dosing & protocols by goal
Rough orientation ranges as reported in harm-reduction literature — not an individual treatment plan. Doses are individual and open-ended; frequency depends on the ester or half-life.
Lipid support
BaselineDose
500–1000 mg / day (standardized extract)
Frequency
1× / day before a meal
Cycle length
During and after cycles, or ongoing
Effects build over weeks; combine with cardio and omega-3 for the best lipid picture.
Overview
Citrus bergamot is a standardized polyphenol extract from the bergamot orange. In the bodybuilding context it is used mainly for cholesterol support — often alongside omega-3 and cardio to offset the unfavorable lipid shifts caused by anabolic substances.
Mechanism of Action
The bergamot polyphenols (a defined flavonoid fraction) are studied for effects on cholesterol synthesis and lipid handling, with human data suggesting reductions in total and LDL cholesterol and support for HDL. Evidence quality varies by product standardization.
Typical Context
Used on cycle as a lipid-support tool, particularly when blood work shows HDL dropping. It is not a substitute for cardio, diet or medical management, but a commonly used adjunct.
Side Effects & Risks
- Generally well tolerated
- Mild digestive upset possible
- Product quality and standardization vary widely — effects depend on a properly standardized extract
- Potential interactions with statins or other lipid drugs — clarify medically
Harm-Reduction Notes
- Choose a standardized, third-party-tested product
- Track lipids with blood work rather than assuming an effect
- Combine with cardio and omega-3 rather than relying on it alone
Legal status by region
Regulation differs considerably between jurisdictions and changes over time. This is a rough orientation, not legal advice — check the rules that apply where you are.
| Region | Regulatory status |
|---|---|
| United States | Dietary supplementFreely available; not subject to pre-market approval. |
| EU / UK | Food supplementFreely available, subject to labelling and claims rules. |
| Most other jurisdictions | Freely available |
| Competitive sport | Not prohibitedContamination of supplements remains a practical risk for tested athletes. |