Cardiovascular Health - Atherosclerosis Flashcards
What is Atherosclerosis?
A: Atherosclerosis is the narrowing and hardening of large and medium arteries, which reduces blood flow.
Q: How does endothelial dysfunction contribute to atherosclerosis?
A: Endothelial dysfunction (ED) plays a central role in the formation of fatty streaks, a primary event in atherosclerosis. It increases permeability, facilitating the entry of LDL into the intima, where it becomes trapped and oxidized to mLDL, triggering inflammatory processes that lead to plaque formation.
Q: What are the causes of endothelial dysfunction leading to atherosclerosis?
A: Causes of endothelial dysfunction include inflammation, oxidative stress, oxidized LDLs, hyperglycemia, endotoxemia, and abnormal shear stress. This leads to altered regulation of inflammatory cytokines and promotes plaque development by increasing hypertension and shear stress.
Q: How does inflammation contribute to atherosclerosis?
A: Inflammation plays a critical role by promoting endothelial dysfunction, subintimal cholesterol accumulation, and monocyte/T-cell recruitment. It activates inflammatory cytokines, which thin the fibrous plaque cap, increasing the risk of plaque rupture and calcification.
Q: How does dyslipidaemia contribute to the development of atherosclerosis?
A: Dyslipidaemia is marked by increased total cholesterol, LDL, VLDL, IDL, Lp(a), and triglycerides, while HDL levels decrease. High triglycerides and oxidized LDLs accumulate in the endothelium, leading to foam cell formation, inflammation, and plaque buildup.
Q: How can a healthy lipid profile be promoted to reduce atherosclerosis risk?
To promote a healthy lipid profile:
Avoid high saturated fats.
Increase omega-3 fatty acids (e.g., avocado, olive oil) and MUFAs.
Consume dietary fiber (30–35 g/day), including soluble fiber and beta-glucans (e.g., oats, mushrooms).
Consider red yeast rice as a natural inhibitor of cholesterol synthesis.
Q: What natural substances support endothelial health and vasodilation?
A: Natural substances such as hawthorn berries, bilberries, blueberries, blackcurrants, beetroot, and green tea (L-theanine) support endothelial health. These improve blood vessel tone, reduce homocysteine, and enhance nitric oxide production.
Q: Why is liver detoxification important for atherosclerosis?
A: Poor liver function can increase the circulation of inflammatory mediators and impede cholesterol metabolism. Supporting liver detoxification, with substances like Schisandra fruit, helps improve cholesterol metabolism and reduce inflammation, crucial in managing atherosclerosis.
Q: Which natural supplements are beneficial for managing atherosclerosis?
A: Some natural supplements include:
L-citrulline (500–3000 mg/day): Enhances nitric oxide production and improves blood pressure regulation.
Pantothenic acid (300 mg x 3 daily): Reduces total cholesterol, LDL, and triglycerides, especially in diabetic patients.
Niacin (500–3000 mg/day): Reduces cholesterol and triglycerides, and lowers fibrinogen.
Omega-3 (3000–5000 mg/day): Reduces triglycerides and stabilizes plaques.
Pomegranate: Improves HDL function and reduces progression of atherosclerosis.
Q: What are some additional lifestyle approaches to managing atherosclerosis?
A:
Sauna: Increases circulation and arterial vasodilation.
Dry skin brushing: Supports circulation and toxin elimination.
Contrast hydrotherapy: Alternating warm/cold water improves circulation.
Tai Chi, yoga, acupuncture: Help reduce endothelin-1 (ET-1), a potent vasoconstrictor.
