Exercise -- toning up the endothelium?

Article Abstract:

Exercise may reduce the risk of heart disease by improving endothelial function. The endothelium is the specialized layer of tissue inside blood vessels. There is much evidence that abnormal endothelial function is the underlying cause of coronary artery disease. A study showed that men who exercised had greater blood flow and less constriction in their coronary arteries compared to men who did not exercise. It was clear that exercise affected the endothelium.

Editorial, Cardiovascular diseases, Exercise, Exercise physiology, Endothelium

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Cholesterol reduction in cardiovascular disease: clinical benefits and possible mechanisms

Article Abstract:

Elevated blood cholesterol levels may cause atherosclerosis and resulting ischemic heart disease. Ischemia refers to local anemia caused by obstructed or limited blood supply, and atherosclerosis is the irregular distribution of fat deposits in arteries. High levels of cholesterol may cause fat to be deposited in the arteries and restrict blood flow. Primary and secondary trials to prevent high levels of cholesterol show that reducing the level of cholesterol may significantly decrease the number of adverse cardiovascular events. Angiographic (x-ray studies of blood vessels) trials show that although cholesterol reduction may not have much effect on the progression of arterial lesions, it may improve the function of the heart lining and discourage the rupture of plaque on arterial walls. Cholesterol-reducing drugs, such as simvastatin, cholestyramine, gemfibrozil, and lovastatin may be helpful in lowering high levels of cholesterol, which in turn may improve the tone and function of blood vessels.

Health aspects, Care and treatment, Coronary heart disease, Blood cholesterol

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Antioxidants and atherosclerotic heart disease

Article Abstract:

A substantial number of epidemiologic studies have demonstrated that antioxidants can reduce the incidence of coronary artery disease. However, the mechanism for this effect is still not clear. The oxidative-modification hypothesis states that antioxidants prevent the oxidation of low density lipoproteins that can cause cholesterol deposits to build up inside arteries. However, some studies have failed to show a regression of atherosclerosis in patients taking antioxidants. Coronary artery disease also involves plaque rupture, clot formation and blood vessel constriction. These could also be affected by antioxidants.

Oxidation, Physiological, Physiological oxidation, Antioxidants, Antioxidants (Nutrients)

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