The latest scientific research and how it relates to your heart health.
(JAMA 2005) Saturated and trans fats found to “switch on” molecule that causes liver to increase VLDL production, leading to higher LDL in blood.
(2003, JAMA) size of lipoprotein molecule HDL size linked to whether or not it is protective. Research from Albert Einstein Col of Med: large size best exercise can increase size. Large size HDL & LDL linked to longevity. (2004, JAMA) U. Pa. school of Med. Ultra low levels of LDL (60-70’s) prevent heart disease. (2005, AHA) LDL particle size linked to plaque formation smaller size penetrates artery walls more easily. Blood test of LDL component (apolipoprotein B ->Apo B) gives relative measure of #LDL lower # means larger size. (2003, Cleveland Clinic) “super” HDL from people of sm. Italian town (everyone c “ApoA-1 Milano HDL” had extremely high longevity, no CVD) Now working on synthetic version to use as cholesterol-lowering drug. (2005, Circulation) Scottish research- 5800 ♀&♂, age 70-82: HDLlevel more important than LDL in elderly as heart dis. risk factor.
(J. Am College Cardiology, 8/2006) One meal high in sat. fat decreased artery wall elasticity (while PUFA were anti-inflammatory)
(Nurse’s Study – ongoing of 155,594 female nurses, ~15,000 male pharmacists added later) Limiting consumption of trans fats was more effective at reducing heart attack risk than was lowering total fat intake. (Harvard U. date?) Every 2% increase in trans fat in the diet results in doubling the risk of heart attack.