Nuts lower cholesterol in the blood

Study: Scientists have pursued the question: Lower nuts cholesterol?

(13.05.2010) The consumption of nuts lowers the cholesterol level and protects the heart from illnesses. This finding is not new, a study by the "Loma Linda University" in California has now examined the exact relationships. Blood lipids such as cholesterol deposit on the inner walls of blood vessels and gradually obstruct regular blood flow. LDL cholesterol obstructs the blood supply to various organs, i.a. Heart, brain and legs. One consequence may be, for example, a heart attack. According to the study, a small amount of nuts per day is enough to sustainably lower blood lipid levels in the body. 67 grams of unsalted nuts per day are enough to lower LDL cholesterol by 5.1 percent.

600 subjects participated in the study. The study lasted for eight weeks. At the end of the study, participants were able to lower LDL cholesterol by 7.4 percent and HDL cholesterol was minimized by 8.3 percent. The LDL decreased by 10.2 mg / dl, the ratio of LDL to HDL cholesterol improved by 0.22 points, the ratio of total cholesterol to HDL cholesterol improved by 0.24 points. Clearly, however, the main cause could not be determined. The scientists assume that the so-called sterols contained in the nuts prevent cholesterol deposits in the human organism. Archives of Internal Medicine (2010; 170: 821-827).

In order to lower the cholesterol level of harmful LDL cholesterol sustainably, a balanced diet with a high proportion of fruit and vegetables and fish is recommended. In addition one should move sufficiently and sportily. Nuts, however, only develop their effect when these natural foods are consumed. Sugared or salted nuts are less useful, according to the study director. (Sb)

Also read:
Vegetables and fish for Alzheimer's prevention
Immune defenses block cancer growth
Prevention: Do not panic with ticks
Source: Archives of Internal Medicine (2010; 170: 821-827).