Private MD News

Antioxidant may help lower cholesterol

Category: Heart Health and Cholesterol

Consuming more antioxidants may help individuals improve their next cholesterol test. A new study on resveratrol, a type of antioxidant, may help bring down triglyceride levels.

The study was conducted as part of a thesis project from a scientist at the University of the Basque Country in Spain. After studying the effects of resveratrol both in mice and in human fat tissue, she found that the substance activates a process called lipolysis, in which triglycerides are broken down into smaller units that can be processed by the body more easily.

One of the leading causes of heart attack and stroke is buildups of cholesterol molecules that were too big for the body to handle. These accumulations can restrict the flow of blood, preventing oxygenated molecules from reaching vital areas of the body, such as the brain.

Aside from limiting the buildup of cholesterol molecules, the study also found that resveratrol can be useful in limiting the accumulation of body fat. This is another leading risk factor for heart disease, and many health experts say that a smaller waistline is critical for good heart health.

The researcher recommended that foods rich in resveratrol be included as part of an overall low-calorie diet for individuals who are at risk for heart disease.