Posts Tagged ‘atherosclerosis’

size of HDL, LDL matters, large lipoproteins and role of LDL – bad cholesterol or HDL – good cholesterol

Tuesday, November 13th, 2007

small size LDL has bad health effect compared to large size LDL. small LDL seems to trigger the process of atherosclerosis more compared to large LDL. HDL also comes in various sizes and large HDL seems to do a very good job of hauling the cholesterol back to the liver. HDL also has very good anti oxidant effect.

large lipo proteins also may be a clue to longevity. a modest amount of exercise is best way to increase the size of LDL and HDL. transfat promotes smaller size LDL particles thus making transfat more dangerous for your health.

smaller LDL particles are also found in people who have insulin resistance syndrome. LDL particle size is also found to be inversely proportional to total triglycerides.

atherogenesis is the formation of lipid deposits in the arteries, smaller LDL particles and high TG – triglycerides are key factors in theĀ  formation of plaque in the lining of the arteries

Oats to lower cholesterol naturally

Sunday, October 21st, 2007

A whole oats diet high in soluble fiber and low in saturated fat may lower the risk of heart disease by reducing cholesterol. Cholesterol control is important component for any weight loss diet.

Although both oats and wheat contain fiber, wheat has more insoluble fiber compared to oats. Insoluble fiber helps prevent constipation, while soluble fiber helps lower cholesterol. There are two types of cholesterol – a good HDL cholesterol and a bad LDL cholesterol. LDL cholesterol contains small dense LDL cholesterol , one of the leading factors of a heart attack.

Bad cholesterol - LDL builds up in the inner walls of the arteries supplying blood to heart and brain. LDL forms plaque or a hard deposit that narrows the arteries and reduces flexibility, a condition known as atherosclerosis. Heart attack or stroke may result when a clot blocks arteries.

Oats contains soluble fiber that dissolves in water. A typical intake of 50 grams to 100 grams of whole oats a day can give 2.5 to 5 grams of soluble fiber.

Some common side effects of oat consumption are – bowel movement, flatulence and reduced absorption of cholesterol lowering drugs like Lipitor. You should always consult your doctor before starting oat diet to lower cholesterol if you are taking any medications.