This site usually comments on the different types of lipids but the comments on this post deals with what happens to to the body after an extreme weight loss.
This post will be an observation as to what can happen, when the body is breaking down fat and how the fat is eliminated.
Elimination of fat has to go through the blood stream before it is eliminated through body function. by doing so the body is coping with large amount of fats,that may clog the arteries, thereby penetrating the arteries in a manner that leads to the deposits of cholesterol and the body is so regulated that breaking down fat is done in a manner that the body can not cope with in a normal manner, this includes the fibrinolytic system, that eventually is overwhelmed by the end products of fats. Women are usually protected from early coronary disease through their menses but the ability for the body to eliminate fats after menses is not as readily avaiable, this is probably do to a lack of estrogen or other hormones.
As we age our cholesterol levels are harder to control.mainly due to aging.
Also, parts of the stomach are needed to complete many of the bodies regulatory systems and this includes many vitamins that are not available for synethsis through this weight lowering procedure.Not to say a women, not taking the necessary vitamins will have a tremendous hair loss. This reminds me of those that are genetically altered with the body not being able to manufacture cholesterol. These are those that are given certain vitamins that are needed for the manufacturing of a normal amount of apo B.
One should weigh all factors before embarking on such an EXTREME manner of weight loss. This also goes for weight loss done by traditional methods.
Stay well
Sunday, March 28, 2010
Monday, March 22, 2010
INFLAMATORY LIPIDS AND ASPIRIN INTOLERANCE
Studies done on subjects that were aspirin intolerant and those that were aspirin tolerant were found to have a high level of products generated from arachidonic acid, these mediators from the cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase pathway showed conflicting resuts.
The study tested for the products leukotriene,prostaglandins, and 5-HPETE.
The study subjects were placed in two groups, group 1 aspirin tolerant were not found to have an increase in leuketrines, prostaglandins and 5-HPETE.
In group 2 the aspirin intolerant group found a significant elevations in Leuketrines,prostaglandin, and 5-HPETE.
The above study was done on subjects with a sinus condition, and to evaluate the mediators for there inflammatory effects on those with a sinus condition.
Also PAF was evaluated in both aspirin and aspirin intolerant subjects and found to have the same ratio in both groups.
PAF (Platelet Activating Factor is a strong proinflammatory lipid found in a variety of cell types (neutrophils, monocytes, endotheial cells and IGe sensitized basophils)and is a strong platelet aggregator.
PAF like lipid has been found in the blood of those and measured in those with cold urticaria (presenting with wheals or hives)and angiogenesis (this is the proliferation of new capillaries.
The above can fall into a condition all to itself or can be the result of Apolipoprotein H. In some diseases apo H acts as a cofactor or can work alone and exhibit an immune response whereby you have oxidized ldl cholesterol.
The above can also act as an injury to the endothial wall thereby promoting the ability of cholesterol to heal the vessel, thereby given credence to the claim that cholesterol is not a villian but merely acting as a wound healer.
Aspirin's role should be to stop inflammation but this is not the case with an intolerance to aspirin, the pathway between arachidonic acid and cyploxygenase should be inhibited by aspirin and the dose needed for inhibition is less than 81mgms, around 30 mgms is more intuned, and what is happening is the inflammatory lipids are able to produce rather than being blocked.
FYI there are foods that contain an aspirin base, they are mainly fruits all berries, tomatoes, peppers,peppermint wintergreen just to name the food groups. Salicylates are contained in plant material such as the willow bark
Atherosclerosis comes in many sizes and shapes. there is dietary cholesterol, genetic chlesterol(the apolipoproteins) and those generated by an immune response. All have to be addressed to keep the endothial cells in a viable manner.
PS Let me know how you like my new site format, I have google to thank for giving me the tools to set it up. I think its COOOL. Those cool googlegeist anyone in hematology can relate to a coultergeist both are similiar.
Stay Healthy
The study tested for the products leukotriene,prostaglandins, and 5-HPETE.
The study subjects were placed in two groups, group 1 aspirin tolerant were not found to have an increase in leuketrines, prostaglandins and 5-HPETE.
In group 2 the aspirin intolerant group found a significant elevations in Leuketrines,prostaglandin, and 5-HPETE.
The above study was done on subjects with a sinus condition, and to evaluate the mediators for there inflammatory effects on those with a sinus condition.
Also PAF was evaluated in both aspirin and aspirin intolerant subjects and found to have the same ratio in both groups.
PAF (Platelet Activating Factor is a strong proinflammatory lipid found in a variety of cell types (neutrophils, monocytes, endotheial cells and IGe sensitized basophils)and is a strong platelet aggregator.
PAF like lipid has been found in the blood of those and measured in those with cold urticaria (presenting with wheals or hives)and angiogenesis (this is the proliferation of new capillaries.
The above can fall into a condition all to itself or can be the result of Apolipoprotein H. In some diseases apo H acts as a cofactor or can work alone and exhibit an immune response whereby you have oxidized ldl cholesterol.
The above can also act as an injury to the endothial wall thereby promoting the ability of cholesterol to heal the vessel, thereby given credence to the claim that cholesterol is not a villian but merely acting as a wound healer.
Aspirin's role should be to stop inflammation but this is not the case with an intolerance to aspirin, the pathway between arachidonic acid and cyploxygenase should be inhibited by aspirin and the dose needed for inhibition is less than 81mgms, around 30 mgms is more intuned, and what is happening is the inflammatory lipids are able to produce rather than being blocked.
FYI there are foods that contain an aspirin base, they are mainly fruits all berries, tomatoes, peppers,peppermint wintergreen just to name the food groups. Salicylates are contained in plant material such as the willow bark
Atherosclerosis comes in many sizes and shapes. there is dietary cholesterol, genetic chlesterol(the apolipoproteins) and those generated by an immune response. All have to be addressed to keep the endothial cells in a viable manner.
PS Let me know how you like my new site format, I have google to thank for giving me the tools to set it up. I think its COOOL. Those cool googlegeist anyone in hematology can relate to a coultergeist both are similiar.
Stay Healthy
Monday, March 8, 2010
Broccoli Soup Low in Fat and Cholesterol
I had a huge bag of broccoli and went looking for a recipe for broccoli soup and I came upon a great site. lowfatcooking.about.com.
I made the soup and it was awesome. Thick creamy and flavorful. The recipe is as follows.
Cook time 30 min
Ingredients
2 tsp olive oil
half medium onion
1stalk of celery, finely chopped
1medium Yukon Gold Potato,peeled and chopped
4cups of fresh broccoli,including stems,chopped
2cups of low sodium,fat-freechicken or vegetable soup
one and one-half cups nonfat milk
Preparation
Heat oil in a soup pot or dutch oven. Gently saute onion and celery for 3 to 4 min, until onion is softened. Add potato chopped broccoli,followed by the broth and milk. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat,cover, and simmer for 20 min,until vegetables are tender.
Allow soup to cool slightly. At this point you can either use a cusinart mixing stick blending right in stock pot or place soup in a blender in two or three batches until smooth. I like the mixing stick everything is done in one pot. if using the blender after blending return mixture to pot and heat gently until ready to serve.
This soup is so light and airy you have to make it to appreciate that the ingredients used are not laden with creams or butters.
Per serving
88 cal
Cal from fat 16
Total fat 1.8gms
Sat Fat 0.3 g
Cholesterol 1mg
Sodium 83 mg
Carbohydrates 1.3g
Fiber3.1 g
Protein 4.9 g
Enjoy
Stay Healthy
I made the soup and it was awesome. Thick creamy and flavorful. The recipe is as follows.
Cook time 30 min
Ingredients
2 tsp olive oil
half medium onion
1stalk of celery, finely chopped
1medium Yukon Gold Potato,peeled and chopped
4cups of fresh broccoli,including stems,chopped
2cups of low sodium,fat-freechicken or vegetable soup
one and one-half cups nonfat milk
Preparation
Heat oil in a soup pot or dutch oven. Gently saute onion and celery for 3 to 4 min, until onion is softened. Add potato chopped broccoli,followed by the broth and milk. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat,cover, and simmer for 20 min,until vegetables are tender.
Allow soup to cool slightly. At this point you can either use a cusinart mixing stick blending right in stock pot or place soup in a blender in two or three batches until smooth. I like the mixing stick everything is done in one pot. if using the blender after blending return mixture to pot and heat gently until ready to serve.
This soup is so light and airy you have to make it to appreciate that the ingredients used are not laden with creams or butters.
Per serving
88 cal
Cal from fat 16
Total fat 1.8gms
Sat Fat 0.3 g
Cholesterol 1mg
Sodium 83 mg
Carbohydrates 1.3g
Fiber3.1 g
Protein 4.9 g
Enjoy
Stay Healthy
Saturday, March 6, 2010
TOO LITTLE CHOLESTEROL AND THE NEED FOR VITAMINS A K D E
Too little cholesterol increases the need for Vitamins A K D E.
Today statin users are being tested for a deficiencey in Vitamin D, this is because when cholesterol levels are low and kept low the need for this vitamin needs suplementation.
There is a disease condition called abetalipoproteinemia whereby the body has a defect, in that it is not able to manufacture or secrete lipoproteins containing products of the apolipoprotein B gene. This is due to a lack of a transfer protein which transports triglyceride, cholesterol ester and phospholipids from the surface of phospholipids.
In cholesterol that is too high apo B iS in abudance due to receptors that are malfunctioning and the body is not able to secrete Apo B and there is a build up of cholesterol on the walls of the arteries because of this defect.
High levels of apo B is considered a risk factor for coronary artery disease.
Vitamin E has come under scrutiny especially in smokers and the public has been advised not to take vit E because of the risk of developing lung cancer. So the case for vitamin E. Vit K fo those on a anticoagulant eg Heparin or Coumadin should check with your doctor as Vit K is the same as eating foods that contain Vit K and this will interfere with the medication.
Before taking any supplements check with your doctor first and make sure this is the right treatment for you as an individual.
It has been suggested that Vit E might stabilize or improve neuromuscular and retinial abnormalities seen in abetalipoproteinemia and manifestations of the disease such as neuropathy.Which many long term statin users develop.
Testing for Vit deficiences in those with high cholesterol and being treated either aggressively or passively with a statin is new and warrants investigation.
Stay Healthy
Today statin users are being tested for a deficiencey in Vitamin D, this is because when cholesterol levels are low and kept low the need for this vitamin needs suplementation.
There is a disease condition called abetalipoproteinemia whereby the body has a defect, in that it is not able to manufacture or secrete lipoproteins containing products of the apolipoprotein B gene. This is due to a lack of a transfer protein which transports triglyceride, cholesterol ester and phospholipids from the surface of phospholipids.
In cholesterol that is too high apo B iS in abudance due to receptors that are malfunctioning and the body is not able to secrete Apo B and there is a build up of cholesterol on the walls of the arteries because of this defect.
High levels of apo B is considered a risk factor for coronary artery disease.
Vitamin E has come under scrutiny especially in smokers and the public has been advised not to take vit E because of the risk of developing lung cancer. So the case for vitamin E. Vit K fo those on a anticoagulant eg Heparin or Coumadin should check with your doctor as Vit K is the same as eating foods that contain Vit K and this will interfere with the medication.
Before taking any supplements check with your doctor first and make sure this is the right treatment for you as an individual.
It has been suggested that Vit E might stabilize or improve neuromuscular and retinial abnormalities seen in abetalipoproteinemia and manifestations of the disease such as neuropathy.Which many long term statin users develop.
Testing for Vit deficiences in those with high cholesterol and being treated either aggressively or passively with a statin is new and warrants investigation.
Stay Healthy
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
PRESIDENT OBAMAS CHOLESTEROL LEVEL AND STRESS
It sems like everyone is blaming President Obamas increased cholesterol on what he eats. Apparently his cholesterol has risen from 176 prior to presidencey to 209 post election.
No one has addresed the stress factors that are related to his office. I'm sure every day he is bombarded with problems and with each new stress his cholesterol level rises.
He is up for more criticism now than probably at any other time in his life.
I hope he can find a good support group that will make feel more secure in his poition with the knowledge that he is doing a good job in spite of the Republicans.
my advice for what it is worth, take time to meditate and accent the positives and not the negatives.
I'm sure it is lonely at the top.
Stay Healthy
No one has addresed the stress factors that are related to his office. I'm sure every day he is bombarded with problems and with each new stress his cholesterol level rises.
He is up for more criticism now than probably at any other time in his life.
I hope he can find a good support group that will make feel more secure in his poition with the knowledge that he is doing a good job in spite of the Republicans.
my advice for what it is worth, take time to meditate and accent the positives and not the negatives.
I'm sure it is lonely at the top.
Stay Healthy
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
SAVING MONEY WITH CHOLESTEROL LOWERING STATINS
This post is for those who are switched to a new statin.
On my last visit to the doctor I went on a new statin. I wanted to try the statin first before I incurred a 3 month supply of the medication which would lead to wasted money and medication.
My new medication was Lipitor so I went on Lipitors web site and they had a free months trial of the medication. What I needed to do was ask for a separate medication request for one months supply from the doctor, this was in lieu of the usual three month prescription. I printed the free offer coupon from the web site. I took both the one month prescription and the free trial form to a local pharmacy and they filled the medication for free.
It is usually less expensive to deal with a carrier such as Medco, Medco is an on line pharmacy that fills prescriptions usually at a rate that is less expensive then neighborhood pharmacies and can be accessed through your prescription carrier, eg Medicare part D
Hopefully this information will save you some money. I would certainly look into this avenue when going on to a new medication. I have only tried it for the above statin.
Stay Healthy
On my last visit to the doctor I went on a new statin. I wanted to try the statin first before I incurred a 3 month supply of the medication which would lead to wasted money and medication.
My new medication was Lipitor so I went on Lipitors web site and they had a free months trial of the medication. What I needed to do was ask for a separate medication request for one months supply from the doctor, this was in lieu of the usual three month prescription. I printed the free offer coupon from the web site. I took both the one month prescription and the free trial form to a local pharmacy and they filled the medication for free.
It is usually less expensive to deal with a carrier such as Medco, Medco is an on line pharmacy that fills prescriptions usually at a rate that is less expensive then neighborhood pharmacies and can be accessed through your prescription carrier, eg Medicare part D
Hopefully this information will save you some money. I would certainly look into this avenue when going on to a new medication. I have only tried it for the above statin.
Stay Healthy
NOT ALL STATINS ARE EQUAL FOR LOWERING CHOLESTEROL
I recently had my quarterly visit with my lipid specialist and I'm now back on a statin. The statin Iam taking is not as strong as the one I took about a year ago. I am now taking Lipitor. I was on Crestor and Crestor is a much stronger statin then Lipitor. THe reason given to me by the pharmacy is Crestor lowers cholesterol much faster than the other statins.
I was on a combinatin of Crestor and Niaspan and the side effects I had from the combination have subsided on a scale from 1 to 10. Iam an 8.I still have some neuropathy and my bones do not creak as much as they did. Just a little. On the mend.
Usually some one in my age is not treated as aggressively(that 29 and holding group) but when asked if my calf hurt I had to say no it does not.
My vit D level was 20 and this was with taking the vitamin previous to the testing. I am taking 1000mg of Vit D and it seems to be working.
My ldl without the statin was high all other labs were normal.
I have to thank my doctors for putting up with me. I was not the ideal patient. I do not suffer in silence, something akin to the Princess and the Pea.
I have taken a statin on and off over the last 10 years with B12 and folic acid for a high Homocystine and when I had my heart cam done I was in the 20% group. This is good but there was a lot of material around the area.
The treatment I had and still continue is called Preventitive Cardiology and this is the name my group of doctor's go by and how they treat.
Treatment is geared to individual needs and how I was treated may not be the same as someone else.
I had to decide where I was going with my treatment and make the decision as to what I was going to take, along with my doctor's input.
I will continue to post on the mechanisms of lipids and report my progress .
Stay healthy
I was on a combinatin of Crestor and Niaspan and the side effects I had from the combination have subsided on a scale from 1 to 10. Iam an 8.I still have some neuropathy and my bones do not creak as much as they did. Just a little. On the mend.
Usually some one in my age is not treated as aggressively(that 29 and holding group) but when asked if my calf hurt I had to say no it does not.
My vit D level was 20 and this was with taking the vitamin previous to the testing. I am taking 1000mg of Vit D and it seems to be working.
My ldl without the statin was high all other labs were normal.
I have to thank my doctors for putting up with me. I was not the ideal patient. I do not suffer in silence, something akin to the Princess and the Pea.
I have taken a statin on and off over the last 10 years with B12 and folic acid for a high Homocystine and when I had my heart cam done I was in the 20% group. This is good but there was a lot of material around the area.
The treatment I had and still continue is called Preventitive Cardiology and this is the name my group of doctor's go by and how they treat.
Treatment is geared to individual needs and how I was treated may not be the same as someone else.
I had to decide where I was going with my treatment and make the decision as to what I was going to take, along with my doctor's input.
I will continue to post on the mechanisms of lipids and report my progress .
Stay healthy
Friday, February 26, 2010
THE LIPID ROLE OF PROSTAGLANDINS AND LEUKOTRINES
First definitions are in order, What are Prostaglandins and leukotrines
The defintions for the above come from a glossary and I will give you the text where the definitions were acquired at the end of my post.
Prostaglandins: Pharmacologically active derivatives of arachidonic acid. Different prostaglandins are capable of modulating cell mobility and immune respose.
If you remember in my previous post aspirin intiates a response whereby the two inflammatory lipids cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase are inhibited. This means that by taking aspirin you should not be able to make prostaglandins.Now the question is why are some making prostaglandins while taking aspirin.
In those people who are intolerant to aspirin they make more inflammatory lipids. Studies have been done on those who are intolerant to aspirin and the findings are that they secrete more arachidonic acid and aspirins affect is rendered null on blocking the inflammatory lipid pathway.There is an increase in the metabolites of arachidonic acid in all asprin intolerant patients. The major action of these metabolites are Coagulation, vasodilators, cell activation and chemotaxsis(response to chemical stimulation).
For years I did not eat foods with an aspirin base let alone take aspirin. I did this for a reason and I find it very interesting that when I was found to have occlusion in my carotids. I had been taking a full aspirin every day. thereby thinking I am helping myself I could have been contributing to my elevated lipids.
I will go into more of the research findings on what elements are elevated when the study was done between aspirin tolerant and aspirin intolerant subjects and explain more about arachidonic acid.
Definition of Leukotrine
A collection of metabolites of arachidonic acid which have powerful pharmacological effects.
The same principle that applies to prostaglands also applies to leukotrines(see above)and probably have the same response to an intolerance to aspirin and contribute to an increased amount of arachidonic acid.
More has to be done in the way of research as the above study was not done on those with a high cholesterol level but hopefully in the right hands this information can achieve a positive outcome.
Many who do research do so in their own niche and do not always have a full range of material to apply to their scientific findings. If I may make an analogy the right hand does not always know what the left hand is doing. In most cases, not all.
DO NOT STOP TAKING ASPIRIN ALL THAT IS DONE ON THIS SITE IS WITH YOUR DOCTOR'S CONSENT.
Definitions were cited from IMMUNOLOGY FIFTH EDITION
Hope all faired in this recent snow storm and spring is right around the corner.
Stay healthy
The defintions for the above come from a glossary and I will give you the text where the definitions were acquired at the end of my post.
Prostaglandins: Pharmacologically active derivatives of arachidonic acid. Different prostaglandins are capable of modulating cell mobility and immune respose.
If you remember in my previous post aspirin intiates a response whereby the two inflammatory lipids cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase are inhibited. This means that by taking aspirin you should not be able to make prostaglandins.Now the question is why are some making prostaglandins while taking aspirin.
In those people who are intolerant to aspirin they make more inflammatory lipids. Studies have been done on those who are intolerant to aspirin and the findings are that they secrete more arachidonic acid and aspirins affect is rendered null on blocking the inflammatory lipid pathway.There is an increase in the metabolites of arachidonic acid in all asprin intolerant patients. The major action of these metabolites are Coagulation, vasodilators, cell activation and chemotaxsis(response to chemical stimulation).
For years I did not eat foods with an aspirin base let alone take aspirin. I did this for a reason and I find it very interesting that when I was found to have occlusion in my carotids. I had been taking a full aspirin every day. thereby thinking I am helping myself I could have been contributing to my elevated lipids.
I will go into more of the research findings on what elements are elevated when the study was done between aspirin tolerant and aspirin intolerant subjects and explain more about arachidonic acid.
Definition of Leukotrine
A collection of metabolites of arachidonic acid which have powerful pharmacological effects.
The same principle that applies to prostaglands also applies to leukotrines(see above)and probably have the same response to an intolerance to aspirin and contribute to an increased amount of arachidonic acid.
More has to be done in the way of research as the above study was not done on those with a high cholesterol level but hopefully in the right hands this information can achieve a positive outcome.
Many who do research do so in their own niche and do not always have a full range of material to apply to their scientific findings. If I may make an analogy the right hand does not always know what the left hand is doing. In most cases, not all.
DO NOT STOP TAKING ASPIRIN ALL THAT IS DONE ON THIS SITE IS WITH YOUR DOCTOR'S CONSENT.
Definitions were cited from IMMUNOLOGY FIFTH EDITION
Hope all faired in this recent snow storm and spring is right around the corner.
Stay healthy
Saturday, February 6, 2010
FOODS AND FOOD ADDITIVES THAT EFFECT A RISK FACTOR FOR ATHEROSCLEROSIS
The benefits of certain foods that negate a risk factor for atherosclerosis have been touted as having beneficial results in keeping the arteries clear and the mechanism of action has not been addressed.
An example of this is fish oil, a diet rich in fish oil prolongs the bodies ability to keep blood flowing in a manner that does not address clotting, the offending factor is platelets, these tiny healing disc's, promotes an insult to the artery that has plaque build up, this is done by the formation of blood clots.
The following are a list of foods that help eliminate artery clogging plaque.
Chinese food has been found to cause easy bruising after injestion, this is due to the anti platelet effect of the black tree fungus.
An extract of onion can inhibit platelet arachidonic acid metabolism'
Ajoene, a component of garlic inhibits the binding of fibrinogen and platelet aggregation.
Cumin,Tumeric are spices that inhibit platelet aggregation and eichanoid biosynthesis.
The fatty acids of fish oil reduce arachidonic acid and this is done in a competitory fashion by competing with arachidonic acid for cyclooxygenase.
The foods and spices listed above have an effect that is pro healthy and now you know Why.
Reference Williams Hematology, Sixth Edition
Stay Healthy
An example of this is fish oil, a diet rich in fish oil prolongs the bodies ability to keep blood flowing in a manner that does not address clotting, the offending factor is platelets, these tiny healing disc's, promotes an insult to the artery that has plaque build up, this is done by the formation of blood clots.
The following are a list of foods that help eliminate artery clogging plaque.
Chinese food has been found to cause easy bruising after injestion, this is due to the anti platelet effect of the black tree fungus.
An extract of onion can inhibit platelet arachidonic acid metabolism'
Ajoene, a component of garlic inhibits the binding of fibrinogen and platelet aggregation.
Cumin,Tumeric are spices that inhibit platelet aggregation and eichanoid biosynthesis.
The fatty acids of fish oil reduce arachidonic acid and this is done in a competitory fashion by competing with arachidonic acid for cyclooxygenase.
The foods and spices listed above have an effect that is pro healthy and now you know Why.
Reference Williams Hematology, Sixth Edition
Stay Healthy
Friday, February 5, 2010
INFLAMMATORY LIPIDS
There are two families of lipids that cause inflammation, and members of these families contribute to proinflammatory actions, the families in question are derived from a substance called arachidonic acid and the pathways that are formed are called the cycloxygenase and lipoxygenase pathway.
Now, a little bit of information about arachidonic acid, it is a 20 carbon polyunsaturated fatty acid that is derived from dietary sources or by conversion from linoleic acid. Interesting that this has an oil base.
Members of both these families enhance platelet aggregation(this means the platelets clump), platelets play a role in clotting and I did touch on this in early posts, you need platelets they heal wounds but when they are in clumps, in the body, this is not normal.
Members of both these families of lipids have been found in inflammatory fluids and so the case for aspirin, aspirin role is to reduce inflamation and by doing so, negates the effect of the cyclooxygenase pathway and a acute inflamatory response.
These two families set off a cascade of other mediators called prostaglandins and leukotrines and in my next post I will go into a short explanation of there lipid role.
Stay Healthy
Now, a little bit of information about arachidonic acid, it is a 20 carbon polyunsaturated fatty acid that is derived from dietary sources or by conversion from linoleic acid. Interesting that this has an oil base.
Members of both these families enhance platelet aggregation(this means the platelets clump), platelets play a role in clotting and I did touch on this in early posts, you need platelets they heal wounds but when they are in clumps, in the body, this is not normal.
Members of both these families of lipids have been found in inflammatory fluids and so the case for aspirin, aspirin role is to reduce inflamation and by doing so, negates the effect of the cyclooxygenase pathway and a acute inflamatory response.
These two families set off a cascade of other mediators called prostaglandins and leukotrines and in my next post I will go into a short explanation of there lipid role.
Stay Healthy
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
MOLECULES THAT CONTRIBUTE TO THE ATHEROTHROMBOTIC STATE
The major initiator of the clotting system and the bodies ability to achieve hemostatis is tissue factor , it is a component of athersclerotic plaque and is the major contributor in clots that are formed in the arteries. It is associated with acute coronary syndrome.
Tissue factor antigen has been found in abudance in the plaque that is formed on the artery wall.
If you are a patient on an anticoagulant and have your blood tested for protime's or aptt's,if you ever notice how they draw these specimens it is usually done with a tube that is discarded.
The reason the tube is discarded is because of tissue factor, that is in the tissues, in order not to reach the blood flow,tissue factor has to be disengaged.
If not, what will happen is the tissue factor will set off the clotting system and the results will be invalid.
With the rupture of plaque this exposes active tissue factor to circulating blood thus a blood clot is formed.
Tissue factor adheres differently on different surfaces, the majority of tissue factor is inactive, and can be activated by altered phospholipids structures. It is when the active form of TF is released that the body is no longer in a state of homostasis and the arteries are in a procoagulant state.
There are other activators of atherosclerotic plaque and I will touch on these at another time.
Stay Healthy
Tissue factor antigen has been found in abudance in the plaque that is formed on the artery wall.
If you are a patient on an anticoagulant and have your blood tested for protime's or aptt's,if you ever notice how they draw these specimens it is usually done with a tube that is discarded.
The reason the tube is discarded is because of tissue factor, that is in the tissues, in order not to reach the blood flow,tissue factor has to be disengaged.
If not, what will happen is the tissue factor will set off the clotting system and the results will be invalid.
With the rupture of plaque this exposes active tissue factor to circulating blood thus a blood clot is formed.
Tissue factor adheres differently on different surfaces, the majority of tissue factor is inactive, and can be activated by altered phospholipids structures. It is when the active form of TF is released that the body is no longer in a state of homostasis and the arteries are in a procoagulant state.
There are other activators of atherosclerotic plaque and I will touch on these at another time.
Stay Healthy
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
THE DEMOGRAPHICS OF GENETIC CHOLESTEROLS APOLIPOPROTEIN a
Apolipoprotein a circulates in the blood stream in amounts that vary from 1 mg/dl to 100mg/dl, but is usually found in the 20mg/dl range. Higher levels are found in women that are in menopause and in patients that have had a myocardial infarction and patients with diabetes mellitus.
Several large studies have found (apo a), in patients who are at high risk for early coronary heart disease. High levels are also present in patients with Familial hypercholesterolemia.
Apo a has also been associated with an increase incidence for heart disease in the Asian community but not in American Afro Americans.
Several mechanisms have been proposed as to the relationship between apo a and atherosclerosis and thrombus(blood clot).
Apo a displaces plamsminogen from sites on fibrin and fibrinogen and inhibits plamsinogen activation, thereby rendering it's ability to break down clots.
Apo a interferes with the fibrinolytic system.
Inhibits Streptokinase AND TPA both of the latter are needed to break down clots.
Apo a also may enhance the delivery of ldl particles to the artery wall.
APO a has been found in atherosclerotic plaque.
I will be going to my lipid specialist in 2 weeks. I haven't been on a statin or niaspan, for about 8 months. I also will be tested for a Vit D level as I am at higher risk than the normal population and should have a lower value,at this visit I have to remember what a very well known public TV speaker says, "Excuses be Begone".
I was given a prescription by my gynecologist for vit D3. and have been taking the vitamin for about two weeks. I have to say I do feel lot better. I don't know if this is a placebo effect,if it is, I will take the good feeling.
Reference: Williams Hematology, Sixth Edition
Stay Healthy
Several large studies have found (apo a), in patients who are at high risk for early coronary heart disease. High levels are also present in patients with Familial hypercholesterolemia.
Apo a has also been associated with an increase incidence for heart disease in the Asian community but not in American Afro Americans.
Several mechanisms have been proposed as to the relationship between apo a and atherosclerosis and thrombus(blood clot).
Apo a displaces plamsminogen from sites on fibrin and fibrinogen and inhibits plamsinogen activation, thereby rendering it's ability to break down clots.
Apo a interferes with the fibrinolytic system.
Inhibits Streptokinase AND TPA both of the latter are needed to break down clots.
Apo a also may enhance the delivery of ldl particles to the artery wall.
APO a has been found in atherosclerotic plaque.
I will be going to my lipid specialist in 2 weeks. I haven't been on a statin or niaspan, for about 8 months. I also will be tested for a Vit D level as I am at higher risk than the normal population and should have a lower value,at this visit I have to remember what a very well known public TV speaker says, "Excuses be Begone".
I was given a prescription by my gynecologist for vit D3. and have been taking the vitamin for about two weeks. I have to say I do feel lot better. I don't know if this is a placebo effect,if it is, I will take the good feeling.
Reference: Williams Hematology, Sixth Edition
Stay Healthy
Sunday, January 31, 2010
APOLIPOPROTEIN H AND CHOLESTEROL PART 2
I am sure you are all waiting with bated breath to find out how the APL Syndrome came about.
If you remember from my previous post, the laboratory was getting false positive results for syphilis tests, this means that the results were positive but the patient did not have syphilis.
In the early development of coagulation testing a reagent called, Cephalin was being used to speed up coagulation reactions.Cephalin is a phospholipid, this led to abnormailities that were associated with the presence of an anticoagulant in patients with systemic lupus and frequently together with syphilis test. This means that patients with lupus gave a false positive test for syphilis due to the phospholipids in Cephalin.
In 1983 with the development of another phospholipid called Cardiolipin which is the major reagent in the syphilis test, this finding led to a major step in the identification of this syndrome.
Now back to cholesterol, Atherosclerosis was acclerated in mice immunized with anticardiolipin antibodies from an APL syndrome patient(these mice had ldl receptors knocked out).
The antibodies associated with APL can come from different venues. One being cofactor independent antibodies to phospholipis triggered by an infection, also drugs such as procanamide can induce APL antibodies. Also these antibodies can be found in patients that are asymptomatic individuals, there are also patients that are at high risk for developing the disease APL but have not sero converted.
There are co factors that have been identified along with Apo H and these deal mainly with the clotting system.
As you can tell by the above information phospholipids and Apo H have roles that are multi tasked in maintaining hemostasis in the body.
APL antibodies may show cross reactivity against oxidized ldl and this can lead to a risk for atherosclerosis. What else bears mentioning is the impairment of the fibrinolytic system. This is the bodies ability to break down clots.Also, APL antibodies have been associated with increased susceptibility to coronary artery disease and in particular premature atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease appears to be associated with antibodies against oxidized ldl.
Stay Healthy
If you remember from my previous post, the laboratory was getting false positive results for syphilis tests, this means that the results were positive but the patient did not have syphilis.
In the early development of coagulation testing a reagent called, Cephalin was being used to speed up coagulation reactions.Cephalin is a phospholipid, this led to abnormailities that were associated with the presence of an anticoagulant in patients with systemic lupus and frequently together with syphilis test. This means that patients with lupus gave a false positive test for syphilis due to the phospholipids in Cephalin.
In 1983 with the development of another phospholipid called Cardiolipin which is the major reagent in the syphilis test, this finding led to a major step in the identification of this syndrome.
Now back to cholesterol, Atherosclerosis was acclerated in mice immunized with anticardiolipin antibodies from an APL syndrome patient(these mice had ldl receptors knocked out).
The antibodies associated with APL can come from different venues. One being cofactor independent antibodies to phospholipis triggered by an infection, also drugs such as procanamide can induce APL antibodies. Also these antibodies can be found in patients that are asymptomatic individuals, there are also patients that are at high risk for developing the disease APL but have not sero converted.
There are co factors that have been identified along with Apo H and these deal mainly with the clotting system.
As you can tell by the above information phospholipids and Apo H have roles that are multi tasked in maintaining hemostasis in the body.
APL antibodies may show cross reactivity against oxidized ldl and this can lead to a risk for atherosclerosis. What else bears mentioning is the impairment of the fibrinolytic system. This is the bodies ability to break down clots.Also, APL antibodies have been associated with increased susceptibility to coronary artery disease and in particular premature atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease appears to be associated with antibodies against oxidized ldl.
Stay Healthy
Saturday, January 30, 2010
APOLIPOPROTEIN H AND CHOLESTEROL
In ldl receptor knockout mice, these are mice that do not have the ability to synthesize cholesterol in a manner that leads to the excretion of cholesterol. Atherosclerosis was acclerated in animals that were injected with APL antibodies. These findings suggest a role in the development of atherosclerosis.
Now, a definition of what constitutes an APL syndrone, this is a disorder in which vascular thrombosis or recurrent pregnancy losses occurs.APL stands for antiphospholipid syndrome. This antigen targets the phospholipid proteins. If you remember lipids are carried through the blood stream by proteins and in this condition it is the protein that is being targeted(apolipoprotein H) orB2GPI.
To explain how an antibody is formed, when the body encounters something that is foreign, it starts making antibodies.Some antigens are beneficial as those that are given for different immunizations, these are protective against disease states and depending on what is being immunized this dictates the antibody antigen complex that is used.
APL is generally thought to fall in the autoimmune antibody classification. Explanation of an autoimmune disease, to put it simply it is the body reacting to itself. APL antibodies are distinct and unique to the syndrome and can be differentiated from other conditions that target the phospholipid and not the co factor protein(apoH).
How this disorder came about is interesting and bears telling. Through the efforts of Moore and Mohr in 1952. They were the first to describe this anamoly. It was through the observation of a false positive test for syphilis that something other than syphilis was occuring but at that time it was not known what was causing this false positive reaction.
Now stay tuned for the next posting and I will explain exactly what happened and what came about.
Hopefully, I peaked your interest as this is rather dry material.
Stay Health
Now, a definition of what constitutes an APL syndrone, this is a disorder in which vascular thrombosis or recurrent pregnancy losses occurs.APL stands for antiphospholipid syndrome. This antigen targets the phospholipid proteins. If you remember lipids are carried through the blood stream by proteins and in this condition it is the protein that is being targeted(apolipoprotein H) orB2GPI.
To explain how an antibody is formed, when the body encounters something that is foreign, it starts making antibodies.Some antigens are beneficial as those that are given for different immunizations, these are protective against disease states and depending on what is being immunized this dictates the antibody antigen complex that is used.
APL is generally thought to fall in the autoimmune antibody classification. Explanation of an autoimmune disease, to put it simply it is the body reacting to itself. APL antibodies are distinct and unique to the syndrome and can be differentiated from other conditions that target the phospholipid and not the co factor protein(apoH).
How this disorder came about is interesting and bears telling. Through the efforts of Moore and Mohr in 1952. They were the first to describe this anamoly. It was through the observation of a false positive test for syphilis that something other than syphilis was occuring but at that time it was not known what was causing this false positive reaction.
Now stay tuned for the next posting and I will explain exactly what happened and what came about.
Hopefully, I peaked your interest as this is rather dry material.
Stay Health
Friday, January 29, 2010
FOODS THAT MEET THE AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATIONS CRITERIA FOR LOW FAT,TRANS FATS AND CHOLESTEROL
How to know if a food is low in cholesterol,trans fats and saturated fats.
The American Heart Association has a logo on foods that they deem worthy of putting their name to,they are products that are low in artery clogging fats and are also low in salt.
Look for a heart with a check mark in the center when going to the market, this label will tell you if the above guidelines have been met.
There is still a fair amount of salt to contend with but a lot lower than traditional type foods.
The best way to eat is buying whole foods (fruits and vegetables) they are not processed but there comes a time when the palette can dictate something different.
I experienced this after three months of fruits and vegetables and I had some undeniable cravings for different foods. There is something to the saying that variety is the spice of life.
Strive to make your diet as varied as possible and know how to substitute foods that contain fats that are not healthy.
I just printed some recipes from a site that are heart healthy and give the nutritional values of the ingredients that are contained within and I will share two of the recipes.
LIGHTER GREEN BEAN CASSEROLE
INGREDIENTS
1can(10 and three quarter oz) Campbell's Healthy Request Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup
one-quarter cup of milk(2%fat or you can use no-fat)
1tsp onion powder
one-eight tsp pepper
one tsp reduced sodium soy sauce
1lb of fresh green beans(about three cups) cooked and drained
2tlbs crushed French's French Fried onions(remember this is a lighter casserole)
DIRECTIONS
1) Stir soup,milk,onion powder,black pepper,soy sauce and green beans in a one and one-half qt casserole.
2)Bake at 350 degrees F for 25 minutes or until mixture is hot and bubbly. Stir bean mixture. Top with onions
3)Bake for another 5 min until the onions are golden brown
This makes six servings and the following is the nutritional value per serving.
NUTRITIONAL VALUE
Calories 65
Total fat 2 gm
Sat fat 1gm
Chol 3 gm
Sodium(salt) 235mg
Total Carbs 10gm
Dietary Fiber 2 gm
Protein 2gm
Vitamin A 9%DV(daily value)
VitaminC 10%DV
Calcium 8%DV
Iron 3%DV
SAVORY LEMON CHICKEN
INGREDIENTS
Vegtable cooking spray
4 skinless boneless chicken breast halves( if too thick pound them to make thinner)
1can(10and three-quater ox)Campbell's Healthy Request Condensed Cream of Chicken Soup
Two tlbs of water
One tlbs of fresh parsley(or one tsp of dried parley flakes)
One tlbs of lemon juice
One-half tsp of paprika
One-quater cup of chopped green or red pepper
4 lemon slices
DIRECTIONS
1)Spray a 10 inch skillet with cooking spray and heat over medium-high heat for 1 min
add chicken and cook for 10 min or until well browned on both sides. Remove chicken from skillet.
2) Stir soup,water,parsley,lemon juice,paprika and pepper in skillet and heat to a boil. Return chicken to skillet. Reduce heat and cook for five min or until chicken is cooked through. Top chicken with lemon slices.
Makes four servings
NUTRITIONAL VALUE
Calories 197/serving
Total fat 5g
Sat Fat 2 g
Cholesterol 76 mg
Sodium 348mg
Total carb 9g
Dietary Fiber 1g
Protein 28g
Vitamin A 6%DV(daily value)
Vitamin C 15%DV
Calcium 2%DV
Iron 6%DV
Hope you and your families enjoy the recipes.
Look for the heart with the check mark, this will be a guide in knowing the amount of fat that is contained in the foods that you eat.
PS I just had Campbell's Healthy Request Tomato Soup and it is ( um um good.).The back of the can has the heart with the check in the middle. Make sure you pick Healthy Request,there is a Healthy Choice not the same.
Stay Healthy
The American Heart Association has a logo on foods that they deem worthy of putting their name to,they are products that are low in artery clogging fats and are also low in salt.
Look for a heart with a check mark in the center when going to the market, this label will tell you if the above guidelines have been met.
There is still a fair amount of salt to contend with but a lot lower than traditional type foods.
The best way to eat is buying whole foods (fruits and vegetables) they are not processed but there comes a time when the palette can dictate something different.
I experienced this after three months of fruits and vegetables and I had some undeniable cravings for different foods. There is something to the saying that variety is the spice of life.
Strive to make your diet as varied as possible and know how to substitute foods that contain fats that are not healthy.
I just printed some recipes from a site that are heart healthy and give the nutritional values of the ingredients that are contained within and I will share two of the recipes.
LIGHTER GREEN BEAN CASSEROLE
INGREDIENTS
1can(10 and three quarter oz) Campbell's Healthy Request Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup
one-quarter cup of milk(2%fat or you can use no-fat)
1tsp onion powder
one-eight tsp pepper
one tsp reduced sodium soy sauce
1lb of fresh green beans(about three cups) cooked and drained
2tlbs crushed French's French Fried onions(remember this is a lighter casserole)
DIRECTIONS
1) Stir soup,milk,onion powder,black pepper,soy sauce and green beans in a one and one-half qt casserole.
2)Bake at 350 degrees F for 25 minutes or until mixture is hot and bubbly. Stir bean mixture. Top with onions
3)Bake for another 5 min until the onions are golden brown
This makes six servings and the following is the nutritional value per serving.
NUTRITIONAL VALUE
Calories 65
Total fat 2 gm
Sat fat 1gm
Chol 3 gm
Sodium(salt) 235mg
Total Carbs 10gm
Dietary Fiber 2 gm
Protein 2gm
Vitamin A 9%DV(daily value)
VitaminC 10%DV
Calcium 8%DV
Iron 3%DV
SAVORY LEMON CHICKEN
INGREDIENTS
Vegtable cooking spray
4 skinless boneless chicken breast halves( if too thick pound them to make thinner)
1can(10and three-quater ox)Campbell's Healthy Request Condensed Cream of Chicken Soup
Two tlbs of water
One tlbs of fresh parsley(or one tsp of dried parley flakes)
One tlbs of lemon juice
One-half tsp of paprika
One-quater cup of chopped green or red pepper
4 lemon slices
DIRECTIONS
1)Spray a 10 inch skillet with cooking spray and heat over medium-high heat for 1 min
add chicken and cook for 10 min or until well browned on both sides. Remove chicken from skillet.
2) Stir soup,water,parsley,lemon juice,paprika and pepper in skillet and heat to a boil. Return chicken to skillet. Reduce heat and cook for five min or until chicken is cooked through. Top chicken with lemon slices.
Makes four servings
NUTRITIONAL VALUE
Calories 197/serving
Total fat 5g
Sat Fat 2 g
Cholesterol 76 mg
Sodium 348mg
Total carb 9g
Dietary Fiber 1g
Protein 28g
Vitamin A 6%DV(daily value)
Vitamin C 15%DV
Calcium 2%DV
Iron 6%DV
Hope you and your families enjoy the recipes.
Look for the heart with the check mark, this will be a guide in knowing the amount of fat that is contained in the foods that you eat.
PS I just had Campbell's Healthy Request Tomato Soup and it is ( um um good.).The back of the can has the heart with the check in the middle. Make sure you pick Healthy Request,there is a Healthy Choice not the same.
Stay Healthy
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
SUPPLEMENTS TO LOWER YOUR STATIN DOSE
New research suggests that by stimulating the production of Nitric Oxide(NO) in those who have elevated cholesterol levels can eliminate the need for the traditional dosage of a statin by as much as 50%.
To give you some information on how this is accomplished, an understanding of what Nitric Oxide does in the body is in order.
Nitric Oxide is a gas that is found in the body and can be measured only in the body, an when exposed to air it dissipates.(NO) lowers cholesterol through it's antioxidant activity. (NO )is more active in the endothelial cells when combined with a statin.
There are ways for (NO) to be measured and research scientists are able to do this by placing electrodes in blood vessels.
As we age the amount of (NO) in the body declines, this could be from cholesterol that has been deposited in the arteries through high fat consumption,genetic cholesterol and an inactive lifestyle.(NO) dilates the arteries and allows for a better flow of blood.
(NO ) CAN NOT be taken as a supplement because of the nature of it's composition, it is a gas
The supplements L-Arginine and L-citrulline are the supplements that can accomplish what (NO) can't do on it's own.
A very respected clinic found that there is significant improvement to blood flow and endothelial function compared to those taking a placebo when taking these two supplements.
Since the amount of food one takes daily is not enough to meet the requirements of this amino acid. It is suggested that supplements be taken instead.
The dose recommended is 2,000 to 3,000 mg 2 times a day for a total of 4,000 to 6,000 mg
Arginine does not enter into the cells unless accompanied by L-citrulline(amino acid).
The food sources for L-citrulline are melons and cucumbers, again, this is not enough to produce an increased amount of (NO).
Dose 400 to 600 mg daily.
DO NOT DECREASE YOUR STATIN WITHOUT YOUR DOCTOR"S ADVICE
TAKE THE ABOVE INFORMATION TO YOUR FAMILY PHYSICIAN AND LET HE OR SHE BE YOUR GUIDE.
TIP OF THE DAY
EAT MORE FIBER (GRAINS, FRUITS AND VEGETABLES ) LOWERS ldl (bad cholesterol) and increases the hdl (good cholesterol). THIS PROTECTS THE ENDOTHEIAL (lining of the arteries).
PS You would be surprised at how many doctor's take supplements.
Stay healthy
To give you some information on how this is accomplished, an understanding of what Nitric Oxide does in the body is in order.
Nitric Oxide is a gas that is found in the body and can be measured only in the body, an when exposed to air it dissipates.(NO) lowers cholesterol through it's antioxidant activity. (NO )is more active in the endothelial cells when combined with a statin.
There are ways for (NO) to be measured and research scientists are able to do this by placing electrodes in blood vessels.
As we age the amount of (NO) in the body declines, this could be from cholesterol that has been deposited in the arteries through high fat consumption,genetic cholesterol and an inactive lifestyle.(NO) dilates the arteries and allows for a better flow of blood.
(NO ) CAN NOT be taken as a supplement because of the nature of it's composition, it is a gas
The supplements L-Arginine and L-citrulline are the supplements that can accomplish what (NO) can't do on it's own.
A very respected clinic found that there is significant improvement to blood flow and endothelial function compared to those taking a placebo when taking these two supplements.
Since the amount of food one takes daily is not enough to meet the requirements of this amino acid. It is suggested that supplements be taken instead.
The dose recommended is 2,000 to 3,000 mg 2 times a day for a total of 4,000 to 6,000 mg
Arginine does not enter into the cells unless accompanied by L-citrulline(amino acid).
The food sources for L-citrulline are melons and cucumbers, again, this is not enough to produce an increased amount of (NO).
Dose 400 to 600 mg daily.
DO NOT DECREASE YOUR STATIN WITHOUT YOUR DOCTOR"S ADVICE
TAKE THE ABOVE INFORMATION TO YOUR FAMILY PHYSICIAN AND LET HE OR SHE BE YOUR GUIDE.
TIP OF THE DAY
EAT MORE FIBER (GRAINS, FRUITS AND VEGETABLES ) LOWERS ldl (bad cholesterol) and increases the hdl (good cholesterol). THIS PROTECTS THE ENDOTHEIAL (lining of the arteries).
PS You would be surprised at how many doctor's take supplements.
Stay healthy
Monday, January 25, 2010
DETERMINE YOUR LDL(CHOLESTEROL) SIZE AND REDUCE HEART ATTACK RISK BY 300%
Many are not aware that cholesterol comes in sizes, nor is it known that by testing for the particle size of cholesterol you will reduce your risk of a heart attack by 300 to 500%. Even when your ldl levels are normal.
Your lipid pattern will determine your risk factors for a heart attack and unless a panel contains results for the sub-types of cholesterol(this is how the size is determined.) Your risk factor may go unnoticed until you incur a full blown heart attack. Prevent this, by testing.
To give you an idea of how the testing is done and I won't go into the full procedure. the specimen that you provide is spun down in a large centrifuge and this is how size is determined. As a friend of mine calls it, the light fluffy stuff. The heaviest particles go to the bottom and the lightest stay on top.
The small (type b) because of its size passes through the inner linings of the coronary arteries more easily and possibly triggering a heart attack.
The large typeA does not do this, this type is your good cholesterol (HDL.)
The above indicates the need for some fat in your diet, as without fat, the manufacturing of HDL is nil. So the case for those good fats.
Remember to replace sat. fats with heart healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats
Also, your intake of carbohydrates should be no more than 45% of your total calories.
There is a cascade effect to what we eat. If you don't burn excess calories they are eventually stored as a fat and carbohydrates are just as much a factor in maintaining normal cholesterol levels as the fats we may eat.
Now you know how cholesterol's size can either reduce the risk of coronary artery disease or increase the risk.
Stay Healthy
Your lipid pattern will determine your risk factors for a heart attack and unless a panel contains results for the sub-types of cholesterol(this is how the size is determined.) Your risk factor may go unnoticed until you incur a full blown heart attack. Prevent this, by testing.
To give you an idea of how the testing is done and I won't go into the full procedure. the specimen that you provide is spun down in a large centrifuge and this is how size is determined. As a friend of mine calls it, the light fluffy stuff. The heaviest particles go to the bottom and the lightest stay on top.
The small (type b) because of its size passes through the inner linings of the coronary arteries more easily and possibly triggering a heart attack.
The large typeA does not do this, this type is your good cholesterol (HDL.)
The above indicates the need for some fat in your diet, as without fat, the manufacturing of HDL is nil. So the case for those good fats.
Remember to replace sat. fats with heart healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats
Also, your intake of carbohydrates should be no more than 45% of your total calories.
There is a cascade effect to what we eat. If you don't burn excess calories they are eventually stored as a fat and carbohydrates are just as much a factor in maintaining normal cholesterol levels as the fats we may eat.
Now you know how cholesterol's size can either reduce the risk of coronary artery disease or increase the risk.
Stay Healthy
Friday, January 22, 2010
LITTLE KNOWN SUPPLEMENT THAT DECREASES LDL
Most family physicians do not prescribe supplements to lower genetic or dietary cholesterol.
They usually go with conventional methods to reduce cholesterol and usually stay within the mainstream of medicine. That is changing as more patients look for alternative treatments such as Policosanol.
The demographics of this supplement are as follows:
Policosanol is made up of fatty alcohols . To give you an idea of what a fatty alcohol looks like, look to fruits, like oranges, the peel of an orange has a waxy film and this film is what constitutes a fatty alcohol.
The product can be commercially bought and it's manufactured from sugar cane or beeswax.
Policosanol has been shown to lower ldl by as much as 20%.
One study had the effects of Policosanol lowering ldl cholesterol(bad cholesterol) more than Pravastatin ( this is a statin,)
Policosanol lowered ldl by an average of 19.0% and total cholesterol by 13.9% and the ratio of total cholesterol to hdl(good cholesterol) by 24.4%
Pravastatin only lowered ldl cholesterol(bad cholesterol ) by 15.6% and total cholesterol to ldl(good cholesterol) by 15.9% and did not raise the artery clearing hdl(good cholesterol.)
Polisocanol was MOST notable in it's ability to inhibit clots from forming in vessels.
Also, Policosanol inhibits the oxidation of ldl cholesterol and has been shown to reduce the proinflamatory chemical called thromboxane.
No adverse effects have been noted by taking this supplement, weight loss has been noted. Not a bad effect.
DO NOT TAKE THIS SUPPLEMENT UNLESS YOU CHECK WITH YOUR PHYSICIAN
IF YOU ARE TAKING A STATIN OR OTHER CHOLESTEROL LOWERING MEDICATION THIS SUPPLEMENT ACTS IN THE SAME MANNER AS THE STATIN. IT LOWERS CHOLESTEROL BY SLOWING THE PRODUCTION OF CHOLESTEROL IN THE LIVER. DO NOT TAKE A STATIN WITH POLICOSANOL.
Bring the above information to your physician he will research the information and guide you as to whether it should be an alternative treatment.
Supplements are good but the downside is there regulatory process, it is not mandatory for supplements to meet the guidelines of medications. There are supplements that can be prescribed and the amount of the acting substance is reliable. An example of this is fish oil capsules and the prescription medication Lazara. Lazara is the prescription medication for fish oil and fish oil is the supplement that can be bought in capsule form over the counter.
Food sources of Policosanol
Wheat Germ
Citrus Peels
Caviar(this might be an expensive way to go)
FYI( FOR YOUR INFORMATION) MANY MEDICATIONS HAVE COME ABOUT FROM THE COMPOSITION OF PLANT BASED FOODS.
Stay Healthy
They usually go with conventional methods to reduce cholesterol and usually stay within the mainstream of medicine. That is changing as more patients look for alternative treatments such as Policosanol.
The demographics of this supplement are as follows:
Policosanol is made up of fatty alcohols . To give you an idea of what a fatty alcohol looks like, look to fruits, like oranges, the peel of an orange has a waxy film and this film is what constitutes a fatty alcohol.
The product can be commercially bought and it's manufactured from sugar cane or beeswax.
Policosanol has been shown to lower ldl by as much as 20%.
One study had the effects of Policosanol lowering ldl cholesterol(bad cholesterol) more than Pravastatin ( this is a statin,)
Policosanol lowered ldl by an average of 19.0% and total cholesterol by 13.9% and the ratio of total cholesterol to hdl(good cholesterol) by 24.4%
Pravastatin only lowered ldl cholesterol(bad cholesterol ) by 15.6% and total cholesterol to ldl(good cholesterol) by 15.9% and did not raise the artery clearing hdl(good cholesterol.)
Polisocanol was MOST notable in it's ability to inhibit clots from forming in vessels.
Also, Policosanol inhibits the oxidation of ldl cholesterol and has been shown to reduce the proinflamatory chemical called thromboxane.
No adverse effects have been noted by taking this supplement, weight loss has been noted. Not a bad effect.
DO NOT TAKE THIS SUPPLEMENT UNLESS YOU CHECK WITH YOUR PHYSICIAN
IF YOU ARE TAKING A STATIN OR OTHER CHOLESTEROL LOWERING MEDICATION THIS SUPPLEMENT ACTS IN THE SAME MANNER AS THE STATIN. IT LOWERS CHOLESTEROL BY SLOWING THE PRODUCTION OF CHOLESTEROL IN THE LIVER. DO NOT TAKE A STATIN WITH POLICOSANOL.
Bring the above information to your physician he will research the information and guide you as to whether it should be an alternative treatment.
Supplements are good but the downside is there regulatory process, it is not mandatory for supplements to meet the guidelines of medications. There are supplements that can be prescribed and the amount of the acting substance is reliable. An example of this is fish oil capsules and the prescription medication Lazara. Lazara is the prescription medication for fish oil and fish oil is the supplement that can be bought in capsule form over the counter.
Food sources of Policosanol
Wheat Germ
Citrus Peels
Caviar(this might be an expensive way to go)
FYI( FOR YOUR INFORMATION) MANY MEDICATIONS HAVE COME ABOUT FROM THE COMPOSITION OF PLANT BASED FOODS.
Stay Healthy
Sunday, January 17, 2010
VITAMIN D DEFICIENCEY MAY BE AN UNDERLYING FACTOR FOR MYALGA IN STATIN TREATED INDIVIDUALS
Vitamin D, the test of the day, by this I mean more physicians are testing for a deficiency of this vitamin.
To give a brief history of Vit D deficiency, back in the 17th century a disease that prevailed especially among children was called Rickets. The disease came about because of inadequate sunlight. There is a substance in the skin called 7-dehydroxycholesterol and this previtamin D3 was not able to synthesize because of the inadequate light. I know this is a bit technical but bear with me as I will make this as understandable as possible and tell you about the latest research on how statins contribute to a lack of this vitamin.
As we all know statins are beneficial in reducing coronary artery disease and this comes about through the lowering of cholesterol levels.
If you remember I told you I had a myostitis and myalga from taking a statin. I am better now, there was a point when I could not walk, in order for me to get up I had to swivel my hips and then walk forward. It is gradually getting better, there was a time that when I walked you could hear the cracking of my bones. Today, I have a gait that is not that great but getting better.
Now, the research I was telling you about looked at the relationship between Vitamin D and patients with myalga.They looked at 600 statin taking patients who had myalga and those who did not.
FINDINGS
Vitamin D levels were lower (28.6v34.2ng/ml) in those with myalga
Also 64% of patients with myalga had low Vit D levels compared to 43% of those without symptoms
Patients were treated with a dose of Vit D on a weekly bases for 12 weeks and their levels rose from an average of 20ng/ml to an average of 48mg/ml.
IN MORE THAN 92% OF THE INDIVIDUALS TREATED WITH VITAMIN D THERE WAS A RESOLUTION TO THEIR MYALGA.
What a find for those who have to be on a statin. I encourage you to get tested for the vitamin and bring this study to your doctor's attention, in case he is not aware of the findings.
The moral of this story is, you need cholesterol as well as sunlight to synthesize Vit D
VITAMIN D IN LARGE AMOUNTS CAN BE TOXIC LET YOUR PHYSICIAN BE YOUR GUIDE AS TO HOW MUCH YOU SHOULD TAKE
To give a brief history of Vit D deficiency, back in the 17th century a disease that prevailed especially among children was called Rickets. The disease came about because of inadequate sunlight. There is a substance in the skin called 7-dehydroxycholesterol and this previtamin D3 was not able to synthesize because of the inadequate light. I know this is a bit technical but bear with me as I will make this as understandable as possible and tell you about the latest research on how statins contribute to a lack of this vitamin.
As we all know statins are beneficial in reducing coronary artery disease and this comes about through the lowering of cholesterol levels.
If you remember I told you I had a myostitis and myalga from taking a statin. I am better now, there was a point when I could not walk, in order for me to get up I had to swivel my hips and then walk forward. It is gradually getting better, there was a time that when I walked you could hear the cracking of my bones. Today, I have a gait that is not that great but getting better.
Now, the research I was telling you about looked at the relationship between Vitamin D and patients with myalga.They looked at 600 statin taking patients who had myalga and those who did not.
FINDINGS
Vitamin D levels were lower (28.6v34.2ng/ml) in those with myalga
Also 64% of patients with myalga had low Vit D levels compared to 43% of those without symptoms
Patients were treated with a dose of Vit D on a weekly bases for 12 weeks and their levels rose from an average of 20ng/ml to an average of 48mg/ml.
IN MORE THAN 92% OF THE INDIVIDUALS TREATED WITH VITAMIN D THERE WAS A RESOLUTION TO THEIR MYALGA.
What a find for those who have to be on a statin. I encourage you to get tested for the vitamin and bring this study to your doctor's attention, in case he is not aware of the findings.
The moral of this story is, you need cholesterol as well as sunlight to synthesize Vit D
VITAMIN D IN LARGE AMOUNTS CAN BE TOXIC LET YOUR PHYSICIAN BE YOUR GUIDE AS TO HOW MUCH YOU SHOULD TAKE
Saturday, January 16, 2010
KEEPING CHOLESTEROL LEVELS DOWN WITH A RECIPE FROM THE MEDITERREAN DIET
The people that live in countries around the Mediterranean have diets that are low in artery clogging foods.
Their diets consist of fruits and vegetables and oil's very low in saturated fat.
Many health care physicians are asking their patients to adopt this lifestyle. as they see the benefits of eating these foods.
The following is a recipe from the Contadina web site, and as the article states, it captures the essence of Italian cooking. They Also have a coupon for 75 cents, if you purchase 3 cans of their tomato paste. Giant (a food store) has double and triple coupons. NOT BAD
The recipe contains beans that are high in fiber and olive oil which is composed of unsaturated monounsaturates and polyunsaturates.
There are a few herbs and a small amount of pasta which is considered a carbohydrate.
TUSCAN PASTA AND BEAN SOUP
Prep Time:10 min
Cook Time:20 min
Total Time: 30 min
Makes 6 servings
Ingredients
28 ounce can Contadina Crushed Tomatoes with Roasted Garlic
2 tlbs Olive Oil
1 cup Chopped Onions
2 14.5 oz cans chicken broth( you can make your own by using an oven stuffer roaster( about 5 lbs) place in a large pot, place water over the chicken until covered, bring to a boil and let simmer for a good 2 hrs by this time the chicken will be falling apart if not continue cooking until the chicken reaches this point. You can salt to taste. when finished strain chicken with cheese cloth.
This makes a rather tasty base, save what you don't use , place in baggies, rest the baggie flat in freezer, you won't be taking up much room, by doing so.
15 oz can KIDNEY BEANS(undrained)
2tlbs FRESH PARSLEY chopped or 2tsp dried parsley,crushed
2tlbs BASIL dried and crushed
one-quarter tsp PEPPER
one-half cup SHELL PASTA small in size
INSTRUCTIONS
1)Heat oil in large saucepan over heat. ADD onion:cook2to3min or until tender.Stir in tomatoes,broth,beans,one-third cup of water,basil,parsley and pepper. Bring to a boil.
2) Add pasta:reduce heat to low. Cook,stirring occasionally, 12 to 15 min or until pasta is tender.
Add some bread(a nice crusty Italian) PANERA'S has great breads that are whole grains and they are great in texture and flavor.
Make a salad and you have an Mediterranean Meal.
The fat content of this meal
Olive oil if using 1 tlbs,
Cal 120
Fat Cal 120
Total Fat 14gms.
Sat fat 2 gms.
Trans Fat 0gms
Polyunsat. Fat 2 gms
Monounsat. Fat 10gms.
As you see from the above, olive oil has fat but they are the good fats. REMEMBER you have to substitute the bad fats(like butter,ice cream,whole milks, and meats.) and then add good fats like the above. Twenty % of your total calories should come from the good fats.
Panera's has a book in its stores and if you ask, they are very accommodating as to the contents of their breads.
I just found a spray bottle salad dressing put out by WISH BONE . Follow the pkg directions. Total Fat for 10 sprays is: 1gm. no sat fat or trans fat. It is 2 cal per servings (10sprays.) This product does not contain that much fat and eliminates over loading salads with dressings. Products change with input from their customers. Be a savvy shopper.
I will post recipes every so often that are healthy, hope you enjoy.I'm sure my tech friends will appreciate,right Patty.
Their diets consist of fruits and vegetables and oil's very low in saturated fat.
Many health care physicians are asking their patients to adopt this lifestyle. as they see the benefits of eating these foods.
The following is a recipe from the Contadina web site, and as the article states, it captures the essence of Italian cooking. They Also have a coupon for 75 cents, if you purchase 3 cans of their tomato paste. Giant (a food store) has double and triple coupons. NOT BAD
The recipe contains beans that are high in fiber and olive oil which is composed of unsaturated monounsaturates and polyunsaturates.
There are a few herbs and a small amount of pasta which is considered a carbohydrate.
TUSCAN PASTA AND BEAN SOUP
Prep Time:10 min
Cook Time:20 min
Total Time: 30 min
Makes 6 servings
Ingredients
28 ounce can Contadina Crushed Tomatoes with Roasted Garlic
2 tlbs Olive Oil
1 cup Chopped Onions
2 14.5 oz cans chicken broth( you can make your own by using an oven stuffer roaster( about 5 lbs) place in a large pot, place water over the chicken until covered, bring to a boil and let simmer for a good 2 hrs by this time the chicken will be falling apart if not continue cooking until the chicken reaches this point. You can salt to taste. when finished strain chicken with cheese cloth.
This makes a rather tasty base, save what you don't use , place in baggies, rest the baggie flat in freezer, you won't be taking up much room, by doing so.
15 oz can KIDNEY BEANS(undrained)
2tlbs FRESH PARSLEY chopped or 2tsp dried parsley,crushed
2tlbs BASIL dried and crushed
one-quarter tsp PEPPER
one-half cup SHELL PASTA small in size
INSTRUCTIONS
1)Heat oil in large saucepan over heat. ADD onion:cook2to3min or until tender.Stir in tomatoes,broth,beans,one-third cup of water,basil,parsley and pepper. Bring to a boil.
2) Add pasta:reduce heat to low. Cook,stirring occasionally, 12 to 15 min or until pasta is tender.
Add some bread(a nice crusty Italian) PANERA'S has great breads that are whole grains and they are great in texture and flavor.
Make a salad and you have an Mediterranean Meal.
The fat content of this meal
Olive oil if using 1 tlbs,
Cal 120
Fat Cal 120
Total Fat 14gms.
Sat fat 2 gms.
Trans Fat 0gms
Polyunsat. Fat 2 gms
Monounsat. Fat 10gms.
As you see from the above, olive oil has fat but they are the good fats. REMEMBER you have to substitute the bad fats(like butter,ice cream,whole milks, and meats.) and then add good fats like the above. Twenty % of your total calories should come from the good fats.
Panera's has a book in its stores and if you ask, they are very accommodating as to the contents of their breads.
I just found a spray bottle salad dressing put out by WISH BONE . Follow the pkg directions. Total Fat for 10 sprays is: 1gm. no sat fat or trans fat. It is 2 cal per servings (10sprays.) This product does not contain that much fat and eliminates over loading salads with dressings. Products change with input from their customers. Be a savvy shopper.
I will post recipes every so often that are healthy, hope you enjoy.I'm sure my tech friends will appreciate,right Patty.
Friday, January 15, 2010
LITTLE KNOWN RISK FACTORS THAT CONTRIBUTE TO ATHEROSCLEROSIS
Many know that a healthy diet is the best way to keep dietary cholesterol levels in an acceptable range and exercise also contributes to improved cholesterol levels
Do not let your doctor overlook the following factors:
INCREASED HEMATOCRIT: I went into a lengthy post earlier in my writings, as to how an increased hematocrit contributes to artery damage. Increased hematocrits make the blood thicker and circulation is impaired. This can triple your risk for heart disease. As we age our bodies have a tendency to dehydrate and if living in a climate that is conducive to dehydration(Florida is an example of an area that has a climate that is much hotter then other parts of the country.)the need for fluids should not be ignored. Also, there are disease's that have an increased hct called Hemosiderosis and Hemochromatosis. Have your arteries checked with these conditions.
If you drink alcohol, (even the recommended amount) this is a dehydrating agent.
If you drink coffee, this also effects the fluid ratio in the body and leads to dehydration.
If you smoke, your body's fluid level decreases, there is a condition called secondary polycythemia and the fluid part of the blood is decreased in this condition making your blood much more viscous, and it is also called smokers polycythemia.
Now you know what smoking is doing to your body, and have a better understanding, as to why smoking is deliterous to your body.
Checking to see the color of your urine, this is a way of telling if you are dehydrated( if it is very dark yellow) not pale yellow or light yellow as this is the normal color of urine, drink some water. If you are thirsty it is time to start drinking water.
ELEVATED HOMOCYSTINE: this risk factor bears repeating and repeating, as many are not aware how detrimental homocystine is to your arteries(it promotes the increasing of cholesterol levels on the arteries.)
Get your Homocystine level checked There are supplements that can be taken to decrease the level.
INFECTIONS: More than half of adults with a common respiratory bacteria called Chlamydia Pneumoniae (this is not the sexually transmitted disease) have atherosclerosis(hardening of the arteries) Get tested for C Pneumoniae.
Who is at risk? those with repeated bronchitis or sinusitis infections,consider using a Neti pot to clean the sinuses.
What to take? usually a 14 day course with the antibiotic Zithromax.
Hostility and Anger is as much a risk to the coronary arteries, as high cholesterol and hypertension.
See my post on being happy.
ELEVATED FIBRINOGEN LEVELS have your physician test for this, as any value over 250mg./dl, should have intervention.
How to offset these levels is NOT to eat a high fat diet and eliminate trans fats from the diet. Fats stimulate the liver to make more cholesterol.
If you have an elevated fibrinogen and have peripheral artery disease or suffer from heart disease or stroke. Your doctor might recommend the B vitamin Niacin along with the appropriate statin.
ELEVATED PLATELET COUNT
The role of the platelet in the body is to heal. If you have ever been cut, and start to bleed, usually in a few minutes you will stop(this is to say, it is not a cut on a major artery or a vein) In my years as a specialist in hematology I have reviewed many smears, and have reported clumps of platelets(this is not normal.) This is saying to me, there is something going on in the arteries and if you remember( the post on plaque buildup) before the plaque ruptures, it is because of too many platelets. The platelet is the last insult to the artery that is laden with plaque.
Platelets will adhere to anything that is not smooth , this is there nature. When in normal amounts they are lifesaving but when seen in clumps. Something is brewing.
Ask you doctor when he orders your blood count, to have the lab note if there are platelet clumps, and not try to break them up.
Talk to your doctor about the right medication to take, aspirin is one, but not everyone can take aspirin. Asprin increases the bleeding time and makes the blood much thinner.
Magnesium also works to prevent platelets from forming clumps. It also stabilizes heart rhythm,thus reducing the risk of damage to the heart during a heart attack. CHECK WITH YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE ADDING THIS SUPPLEMENT.
FOOD SOURCES OF MAGNESIUM ARE: artichokes,beans,shellfish,nuts and whole grains.
Low dose aspirin (81mgms) may save your heart.
CHEMOTHERAPY
If you have had chemotherapy it is wise to have your arteries checked. Chemotherapy can have adverse effects to arteries. An ounce of prevention in this area is worth that pound of cure,especially if you have other risk factors.
This site is a lipid site but there comes a time when the addressing of factors that are not that known is beneficial to those of us whose arteries are compromised by diet related or genetic cholesterol.
Stay Healthy
Do not let your doctor overlook the following factors:
INCREASED HEMATOCRIT: I went into a lengthy post earlier in my writings, as to how an increased hematocrit contributes to artery damage. Increased hematocrits make the blood thicker and circulation is impaired. This can triple your risk for heart disease. As we age our bodies have a tendency to dehydrate and if living in a climate that is conducive to dehydration(Florida is an example of an area that has a climate that is much hotter then other parts of the country.)the need for fluids should not be ignored. Also, there are disease's that have an increased hct called Hemosiderosis and Hemochromatosis. Have your arteries checked with these conditions.
If you drink alcohol, (even the recommended amount) this is a dehydrating agent.
If you drink coffee, this also effects the fluid ratio in the body and leads to dehydration.
If you smoke, your body's fluid level decreases, there is a condition called secondary polycythemia and the fluid part of the blood is decreased in this condition making your blood much more viscous, and it is also called smokers polycythemia.
Now you know what smoking is doing to your body, and have a better understanding, as to why smoking is deliterous to your body.
Checking to see the color of your urine, this is a way of telling if you are dehydrated( if it is very dark yellow) not pale yellow or light yellow as this is the normal color of urine, drink some water. If you are thirsty it is time to start drinking water.
ELEVATED HOMOCYSTINE: this risk factor bears repeating and repeating, as many are not aware how detrimental homocystine is to your arteries(it promotes the increasing of cholesterol levels on the arteries.)
Get your Homocystine level checked There are supplements that can be taken to decrease the level.
INFECTIONS: More than half of adults with a common respiratory bacteria called Chlamydia Pneumoniae (this is not the sexually transmitted disease) have atherosclerosis(hardening of the arteries) Get tested for C Pneumoniae.
Who is at risk? those with repeated bronchitis or sinusitis infections,consider using a Neti pot to clean the sinuses.
What to take? usually a 14 day course with the antibiotic Zithromax.
Hostility and Anger is as much a risk to the coronary arteries, as high cholesterol and hypertension.
See my post on being happy.
ELEVATED FIBRINOGEN LEVELS have your physician test for this, as any value over 250mg./dl, should have intervention.
How to offset these levels is NOT to eat a high fat diet and eliminate trans fats from the diet. Fats stimulate the liver to make more cholesterol.
If you have an elevated fibrinogen and have peripheral artery disease or suffer from heart disease or stroke. Your doctor might recommend the B vitamin Niacin along with the appropriate statin.
ELEVATED PLATELET COUNT
The role of the platelet in the body is to heal. If you have ever been cut, and start to bleed, usually in a few minutes you will stop(this is to say, it is not a cut on a major artery or a vein) In my years as a specialist in hematology I have reviewed many smears, and have reported clumps of platelets(this is not normal.) This is saying to me, there is something going on in the arteries and if you remember( the post on plaque buildup) before the plaque ruptures, it is because of too many platelets. The platelet is the last insult to the artery that is laden with plaque.
Platelets will adhere to anything that is not smooth , this is there nature. When in normal amounts they are lifesaving but when seen in clumps. Something is brewing.
Ask you doctor when he orders your blood count, to have the lab note if there are platelet clumps, and not try to break them up.
Talk to your doctor about the right medication to take, aspirin is one, but not everyone can take aspirin. Asprin increases the bleeding time and makes the blood much thinner.
Magnesium also works to prevent platelets from forming clumps. It also stabilizes heart rhythm,thus reducing the risk of damage to the heart during a heart attack. CHECK WITH YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE ADDING THIS SUPPLEMENT.
FOOD SOURCES OF MAGNESIUM ARE: artichokes,beans,shellfish,nuts and whole grains.
Low dose aspirin (81mgms) may save your heart.
CHEMOTHERAPY
If you have had chemotherapy it is wise to have your arteries checked. Chemotherapy can have adverse effects to arteries. An ounce of prevention in this area is worth that pound of cure,especially if you have other risk factors.
This site is a lipid site but there comes a time when the addressing of factors that are not that known is beneficial to those of us whose arteries are compromised by diet related or genetic cholesterol.
Stay Healthy
Thursday, January 14, 2010
THREE TESTS THAT DETERMINE THE NEED FOR CHOLESTEROL LOWERING MEDICATION
Every year more than 800,000 Americans suffer their first heart attack and many of these people have average cholesterol levels.
The thinking today is ldl cholesterol should be no higher than 100 and in those with known cardiovascular problems it should be even lower 70 or 50.
When is there a need for for drug therapy?
When diet and exercise alone has not lowered your ldl(bad cholesterol) and your numbers are still elevated (160 or above). and you have the following risk factors, smoke,have high blood pressure,diabetes and/or family history of heart attack or stroke,and in some cases even if you do not have the above risk factors.
If you carry the genetic form of cholesterol lipoprotein a ( Normal levels are 20 or lower.)
If you have an elevated homocystine, this test is not as known as it should be, and few doctors's test for this risk factor. Have it checked and the levels should be 10 or less.
CT Scan of the heart, this will give the amount of plaque that has accumulated on the arteries and may predict future heart attacks.
The three factors listed above( when elevated )is when medication should begin, and the sooner the better. These factors are not known by primary care physicians. Remember to be an advocate for your own health and be assertive when seeking testing. It is better to err on the side of doing too much rather than not enough when it comes to your health.
Taking the above approach gives one a sense of well being in that you are doing all you can to live a healthy lifestyle.
TIP OF THE DAY Any form of alcohol raises HDL and reduces clotting(if consumed in moderation) no more than 2 glasses a day. Red wine contains resveratrol ( powerful antioxidant that guards cholesterol formation.) Oxidation ( think of how an apple, after peeled, turns brown this is oxidation.
Stay healthy
The thinking today is ldl cholesterol should be no higher than 100 and in those with known cardiovascular problems it should be even lower 70 or 50.
When is there a need for for drug therapy?
When diet and exercise alone has not lowered your ldl(bad cholesterol) and your numbers are still elevated (160 or above). and you have the following risk factors, smoke,have high blood pressure,diabetes and/or family history of heart attack or stroke,and in some cases even if you do not have the above risk factors.
If you carry the genetic form of cholesterol lipoprotein a ( Normal levels are 20 or lower.)
If you have an elevated homocystine, this test is not as known as it should be, and few doctors's test for this risk factor. Have it checked and the levels should be 10 or less.
CT Scan of the heart, this will give the amount of plaque that has accumulated on the arteries and may predict future heart attacks.
The three factors listed above( when elevated )is when medication should begin, and the sooner the better. These factors are not known by primary care physicians. Remember to be an advocate for your own health and be assertive when seeking testing. It is better to err on the side of doing too much rather than not enough when it comes to your health.
Taking the above approach gives one a sense of well being in that you are doing all you can to live a healthy lifestyle.
TIP OF THE DAY Any form of alcohol raises HDL and reduces clotting(if consumed in moderation) no more than 2 glasses a day. Red wine contains resveratrol ( powerful antioxidant that guards cholesterol formation.) Oxidation ( think of how an apple, after peeled, turns brown this is oxidation.
Stay healthy
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
STRESS REDUCING TECHNIQUES THAT KEEP CHOLESTEROL LEVELS FROM RISING
The focus on cholesterol reduction is through medications and diet and most of the general public are aware of the risk factors and the need to reduce high blood pressure, control diabetes, and replace saturated fats with good fats(monounsaturates and polyunsaturates) but little is known that ldl cholesterol can rise through stress.
Cholesterol levels are affected by stress, in a recent study, men's level of ldl (bad cholesterol rose by 5% during periods of high stress.
Women showed no elevation of ldl (bad cholesterol )during stressful periods.
The following are ways to reduce stress:
1) Laughter: find the humor in situations. This increases endorphins ( a hormone that gives a sense of well being) and decreases the stress hormones(cortisol and adrenaline.) Humor lengthens your life, you should be able to laugh at yourself and at humorous situations. If you loose this ability,you're in trouble.
2)Don't be a perfectionist. Perfectionist are never happy. I once read a sign that stated, Perfection is like a moving target the more you aim for it the more it moves. Strive for excellence.
3)Don't dwell, write those nagging thoughts on a piece of paper. You will be surprised at how much can be accomplished by doing this small gesture. Write the things that are in your control, and work on them. The items that are out of your control, let them go. It is surprising how things have a way of working out without our intervention.
4)Be assertive, it is ok to disagree. There is a difference between aggressive and assertive behavior. Give out compliments and accept compliments,make friendships and initiate conversations.
5) Music is a quick stress reliever, anything that takes you away from an offending stressor is good for your well being.
6) Plan your day, if you know traffic is going to be heavy at a certain time of the day, plan to leave at a different time.
7) DOGS The top stress reducer. When facing a particular stressful situation those who had their pets with them had lower heart rates and blood pressure.
We are all individuals and unique in our psyche. Know what elevates your stress level and work on eliminating these stressors. It can be as simple as taking a deep breath.
Every day accentuate the positive and downgrade the negative, you will soon find this to be a habit and a good habit.
Make happiness a choice.
Visit the top of my page and play with the penguins. A sure stress reliever. The fish on this page will also accomplish the mission.
Stay Healthy
Cholesterol levels are affected by stress, in a recent study, men's level of ldl (bad cholesterol rose by 5% during periods of high stress.
Women showed no elevation of ldl (bad cholesterol )during stressful periods.
The following are ways to reduce stress:
1) Laughter: find the humor in situations. This increases endorphins ( a hormone that gives a sense of well being) and decreases the stress hormones(cortisol and adrenaline.) Humor lengthens your life, you should be able to laugh at yourself and at humorous situations. If you loose this ability,you're in trouble.
2)Don't be a perfectionist. Perfectionist are never happy. I once read a sign that stated, Perfection is like a moving target the more you aim for it the more it moves. Strive for excellence.
3)Don't dwell, write those nagging thoughts on a piece of paper. You will be surprised at how much can be accomplished by doing this small gesture. Write the things that are in your control, and work on them. The items that are out of your control, let them go. It is surprising how things have a way of working out without our intervention.
4)Be assertive, it is ok to disagree. There is a difference between aggressive and assertive behavior. Give out compliments and accept compliments,make friendships and initiate conversations.
5) Music is a quick stress reliever, anything that takes you away from an offending stressor is good for your well being.
6) Plan your day, if you know traffic is going to be heavy at a certain time of the day, plan to leave at a different time.
7) DOGS The top stress reducer. When facing a particular stressful situation those who had their pets with them had lower heart rates and blood pressure.
We are all individuals and unique in our psyche. Know what elevates your stress level and work on eliminating these stressors. It can be as simple as taking a deep breath.
Every day accentuate the positive and downgrade the negative, you will soon find this to be a habit and a good habit.
Make happiness a choice.
Visit the top of my page and play with the penguins. A sure stress reliever. The fish on this page will also accomplish the mission.
Stay Healthy
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
NEW CHOLESTEROL THERAPY FOR LOWERING Lpa(lipoprotein subfraction alpha)
Why take niacin? The combination of a statin and niacin in a recent study has halted the progression of heart disease. The use of statin drugs alone did not have the same results.
Statins are expensive and not everyone has insurance to cover this type of medication and the long term side effects of taking statins is not known. This is not to say, stop taking a statin because the risk and benefits have to be taken into consideration.
Niacin lowers the dangerous particles of apolipoprotein a, this sub-type of cholesterol is particulary dangerous to the artery wall. The ldl cholesterol is a small dense particle that because of it's size also adheres to the walls of arteries and has the same effects as the sub-type apo a.
Niacin is rather inexpensive and the cost is not prohibitive. Talk to your doctor if there is a cost problem. Niacin does have adverse reactions, So monitoring this medication is important.
If you are following my site, you will remember that I had my carotids checked in Oct. 2009 and they were in regression. The above adds credence to my story.
The results of this combination therapy came out of recent clinical trials.
The sub-types of cholesterol are dangerous and have to be treated more aggressively as they have a tendency to promote clotting.
If you have to make a choice, go with Niacin, but a combination is better.
Statins do not have the ability to increase HDL(the good cholesterol) or lower the two dangerous particles which are ldl cholesterol(bad cholesterol) and the sub-type apo a.
I was treated with Crestor because of its ability to bring down total cholesterol quicker than other statins on the market.
As always check with your doctor before embarking on any therapy and always weigh the benefits as opposed to the risks of taking certain medications.
I placed some penguins at the top of my site and they are there for a reason and are not decorative(they are cute.) I will touch on how stress increases cholesterol (and this includes the sub-types of cholesterol.) Also, the fish are there for the above reasons.
Take some time during your day to de stress, this is an important part of keeping that cholesterol level in tow.
The penguins will follow
your cursor and if you click on them you can move them anywhere on the rectangle.
IMPORTANT
IF YOU HAVE SUFFERED FROM A HEART ATTACK,STROKE OR HAVE PAD(PERIPHERAL ARTERY DISEASE) YOUR DOCTOR MAY RECOMMEND THE B VITAMIN NIACIN AND/OR A CHOLESTEROL LOWERING DRUG, SUCH AS A STATIN.
PREVENTION IS THE BEST COUSE OF TREATMENT
Stay Healthy
Statins are expensive and not everyone has insurance to cover this type of medication and the long term side effects of taking statins is not known. This is not to say, stop taking a statin because the risk and benefits have to be taken into consideration.
Niacin lowers the dangerous particles of apolipoprotein a, this sub-type of cholesterol is particulary dangerous to the artery wall. The ldl cholesterol is a small dense particle that because of it's size also adheres to the walls of arteries and has the same effects as the sub-type apo a.
Niacin is rather inexpensive and the cost is not prohibitive. Talk to your doctor if there is a cost problem. Niacin does have adverse reactions, So monitoring this medication is important.
If you are following my site, you will remember that I had my carotids checked in Oct. 2009 and they were in regression. The above adds credence to my story.
The results of this combination therapy came out of recent clinical trials.
The sub-types of cholesterol are dangerous and have to be treated more aggressively as they have a tendency to promote clotting.
If you have to make a choice, go with Niacin, but a combination is better.
Statins do not have the ability to increase HDL(the good cholesterol) or lower the two dangerous particles which are ldl cholesterol(bad cholesterol) and the sub-type apo a.
I was treated with Crestor because of its ability to bring down total cholesterol quicker than other statins on the market.
As always check with your doctor before embarking on any therapy and always weigh the benefits as opposed to the risks of taking certain medications.
I placed some penguins at the top of my site and they are there for a reason and are not decorative(they are cute.) I will touch on how stress increases cholesterol (and this includes the sub-types of cholesterol.) Also, the fish are there for the above reasons.
Take some time during your day to de stress, this is an important part of keeping that cholesterol level in tow.
The penguins will follow
your cursor and if you click on them you can move them anywhere on the rectangle.
IMPORTANT
IF YOU HAVE SUFFERED FROM A HEART ATTACK,STROKE OR HAVE PAD(PERIPHERAL ARTERY DISEASE) YOUR DOCTOR MAY RECOMMEND THE B VITAMIN NIACIN AND/OR A CHOLESTEROL LOWERING DRUG, SUCH AS A STATIN.
PREVENTION IS THE BEST COUSE OF TREATMENT
Stay Healthy
Monday, January 11, 2010
CHOLESTEROL DRUGS AND THE CAUSES OF ADVERSE REACTIONS
A genetic variation in a gene can cause medications (and these include those that taken for high cholesterol)) to be eliminated in a manner, that can be too slow,too fast or not at all. This explains why certain people have adverse reactions to certain medications. Here, we are dealing with cholesterol, but there are other drugs that are eliminated in the same manner.
This is why some, not all, do not receive the benefits of the medications they are prescribed.
If you go to http://www.fda.gov/ and search for"genomic biomarkers." You will view a more complete list of the medications that are known to be affected by genetic variations.
The above site gives examples of drugs with FDA approval labels, that recommend or require genetic testing. It will also give the availability of the test.
These genetic variations are called , SNP(single nucleotide polymorphism.)
Just to give a few others drugs of note: Trade Names with generic in parentheses
Strattera (atomoxetine) for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
Warfarin(Coumadin and generic) to prevent blood clots
Imuran(azathioprine) for rheumatoid arthritis
Plavix (clopidogrel) for blood clotting problems
This information can let one know why a medication is not working properly.
Your Primary physicians may be of little help in this area, and this is due to a lack of genetic education in medical schools. Seek out a genetic counselor or start your own investigation as to why a drug may not work, and the above site noted is a good place to start.
It is only recently that genes have been mapped, and not all physicians have to deal on an every day bases with gene interpretation
Stay Healthy
Laura
This is why some, not all, do not receive the benefits of the medications they are prescribed.
If you go to http://www.fda.gov/ and search for"genomic biomarkers." You will view a more complete list of the medications that are known to be affected by genetic variations.
The above site gives examples of drugs with FDA approval labels, that recommend or require genetic testing. It will also give the availability of the test.
These genetic variations are called , SNP(single nucleotide polymorphism.)
Just to give a few others drugs of note: Trade Names with generic in parentheses
Strattera (atomoxetine) for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
Warfarin(Coumadin and generic) to prevent blood clots
Imuran(azathioprine) for rheumatoid arthritis
Plavix (clopidogrel) for blood clotting problems
This information can let one know why a medication is not working properly.
Your Primary physicians may be of little help in this area, and this is due to a lack of genetic education in medical schools. Seek out a genetic counselor or start your own investigation as to why a drug may not work, and the above site noted is a good place to start.
It is only recently that genes have been mapped, and not all physicians have to deal on an every day bases with gene interpretation
Stay Healthy
Laura
ALZHEIMERS DISEASE AND CHOLESTEROLS SUB-TYPE (apolipoprotein E)
It has been written that if you live long enough, you will be subjected to Alzheimer's Disease. How valid is this statement?
There is no test to predict if a person who is asymptomatic for the disease will likely acquire this form of dementia.
There is screening for those who do have dementia and this MAY help diagnose those with Alzheimer's
There is much that can be done if you are at risk for Alzheimer's
1) Staying active, this means keeping your mind and body challenged. This can be done with exercise for body and challenging the mind with reading and doing things to keep your mind active. Much depends on the individuals skill levels and learning abilities.
2)The best way to determine your risk for this disease, is to look into your family history,as this is the BEST way to determine this pattern of inheritance. There are times when depression can mimic this form of dementia. Make sure before you accept a diagnosis of this disease that you or your loved one is thoroughly tested.
3) If you do suspect an emerging pattern be sure to check with a qualified genetic counselor, there is a web site that is brought to you by THE NATIONAL SOCIETY OF GENETIC COUNSELOR'S (Web sitewww.nsgc.org)).
4) These counselors are trained to look into your family history and give advise as to whether genetic counseling is warranted and to interpret test results.
5) Home based testing has draw backs and are for informational knowledge only.
6) What is usually done is a small sample is sent in for analysis and are scanned for genetic variations called SNP(single nucleotide polymorphism) found in the DNA of cells. This type of testing is flawed by the fact that there are many outside issues that can skew the results of these tests.(this means conditions such as the enviorment can cause an alteration in the gene.
7) This testing is not covered by health insurance and is only covered when ordered by a physician.
8) Early intervention before the acquisition of Alzheimer's is crucial, as there are medications that delay this disease. Example, Aricept, and there are others.
9) As always check with your physician for guidance.
10) There are privacy issues that apply to patient care, but not all protect against discriminating practices.
11) Even though there are security measures placed ,there are times when this type of information can fall into the wrong hands, an example could be computer hacking.
It is important to get medical care early in this disease and testing for cholesterol sub-type apolipoprotein E does not always predict the outcome of Alzheimer's,but can be predictive.
Stay Healthy
Laura
There is no test to predict if a person who is asymptomatic for the disease will likely acquire this form of dementia.
There is screening for those who do have dementia and this MAY help diagnose those with Alzheimer's
There is much that can be done if you are at risk for Alzheimer's
1) Staying active, this means keeping your mind and body challenged. This can be done with exercise for body and challenging the mind with reading and doing things to keep your mind active. Much depends on the individuals skill levels and learning abilities.
2)The best way to determine your risk for this disease, is to look into your family history,as this is the BEST way to determine this pattern of inheritance. There are times when depression can mimic this form of dementia. Make sure before you accept a diagnosis of this disease that you or your loved one is thoroughly tested.
3) If you do suspect an emerging pattern be sure to check with a qualified genetic counselor, there is a web site that is brought to you by THE NATIONAL SOCIETY OF GENETIC COUNSELOR'S (Web sitewww.nsgc.org)).
4) These counselors are trained to look into your family history and give advise as to whether genetic counseling is warranted and to interpret test results.
5) Home based testing has draw backs and are for informational knowledge only.
6) What is usually done is a small sample is sent in for analysis and are scanned for genetic variations called SNP(single nucleotide polymorphism) found in the DNA of cells. This type of testing is flawed by the fact that there are many outside issues that can skew the results of these tests.(this means conditions such as the enviorment can cause an alteration in the gene.
7) This testing is not covered by health insurance and is only covered when ordered by a physician.
8) Early intervention before the acquisition of Alzheimer's is crucial, as there are medications that delay this disease. Example, Aricept, and there are others.
9) As always check with your physician for guidance.
10) There are privacy issues that apply to patient care, but not all protect against discriminating practices.
11) Even though there are security measures placed ,there are times when this type of information can fall into the wrong hands, an example could be computer hacking.
It is important to get medical care early in this disease and testing for cholesterol sub-type apolipoprotein E does not always predict the outcome of Alzheimer's,but can be predictive.
Stay Healthy
Laura
Sunday, January 10, 2010
FOLIC ACID DEFICIENCY(ACQUIRED OR INHERITED) RISK FACTOR FOR GENETIC CHOLESTEROL FORMATION
Folic Acid is a supplement that when in decreased amounts can cause the accumulation of artery clogging cholesterol.
Folic acid deficiences can be either acquired or inherited.
When inherited it is related to a disease state that is called Homocystinuria and when acquired it is due to the following.
The main cause of decreased folic acid is a decrease in dietary intake and has it's causes from
1) Poverty
2) Old Age
3) Alcoholism
4) Chronic Diseases
MALABSORPTION
1) Tropical Sprue
2)Gluten-sensitive enteropathy
3)Childhood celiac disease
INCREASED REQUIREMENTS
Pregnancy( In the United States the goverment urges women that are planning to become pregnant to increase their levels of folic acid by eating foods that are high in folic acid or take vitamin supplements to increase their folic acid level.
4)Infancy
5)Malignancy (Their has been an association between low folate levels and leukemia in high risk patients.
DRUGS
Methotrexate
Primethamine
Phenytoin
Alcohol
Isoniazid
Oral Contraceptives
Others
The decrease in folate whether acquired or inherited can lead to
cholesterol build up on the arteries which leads to atherosclerosis.This supplement is added to many types of breads,grains and rice. This is done to boost our nutritional needs.
Reference Clinical Hematology and Fundamentals of Hemostasis
Denise M. Harmening Fourth Edition
Stay Healthy,
Laura
Folic acid deficiences can be either acquired or inherited.
When inherited it is related to a disease state that is called Homocystinuria and when acquired it is due to the following.
The main cause of decreased folic acid is a decrease in dietary intake and has it's causes from
1) Poverty
2) Old Age
3) Alcoholism
4) Chronic Diseases
MALABSORPTION
1) Tropical Sprue
2)Gluten-sensitive enteropathy
3)Childhood celiac disease
INCREASED REQUIREMENTS
Pregnancy( In the United States the goverment urges women that are planning to become pregnant to increase their levels of folic acid by eating foods that are high in folic acid or take vitamin supplements to increase their folic acid level.
4)Infancy
5)Malignancy (Their has been an association between low folate levels and leukemia in high risk patients.
DRUGS
Methotrexate
Primethamine
Phenytoin
Alcohol
Isoniazid
Oral Contraceptives
Others
The decrease in folate whether acquired or inherited can lead to
cholesterol build up on the arteries which leads to atherosclerosis.This supplement is added to many types of breads,grains and rice. This is done to boost our nutritional needs.
Reference Clinical Hematology and Fundamentals of Hemostasis
Denise M. Harmening Fourth Edition
Stay Healthy,
Laura
Saturday, January 9, 2010
WHY YOU MAY NOT BE ABLE TO TAKE NIACIN?
Besides treating for a deficiency of Niacin,(VITAMIN B3). Niacin is also used to lower cholesterol and triglycerides.It is especially used for lowering genetic cholesterol.
The following is a list of conditions that may negate your use of Niacin or adjust the dosage of this medication.
Allergy to any drugs
Liver and Kidney disease
A stomach ulcer
Diabetes
Gout
A muscle disorder eg. Myasthenia Gravis
Heart disease or uncontrolled angina(chest pain)
Niacin can also be harmful to unborn babies let your doctor know if you intend to plan a pregnancy while taking this medication. Also, if you are pregnant.
The above information has been taken from the package insert that comes with Niacin medication.
You should also advise your physician if you have auto immune diseases such as arthritis as this may also negate the use of this medication.
Because high dosage of this medication causes side effects which I have dealt with on other posts. It is advisable to use this medication with a physician supervision.
Niacin is also readily available over the counter in pharmacies and other areas that sell this type of medication.
It is best NOT to purchase over the counter because of the reasons given above.
Stay Healthy
Laura
The following is a list of conditions that may negate your use of Niacin or adjust the dosage of this medication.
Allergy to any drugs
Liver and Kidney disease
A stomach ulcer
Diabetes
Gout
A muscle disorder eg. Myasthenia Gravis
Heart disease or uncontrolled angina(chest pain)
Niacin can also be harmful to unborn babies let your doctor know if you intend to plan a pregnancy while taking this medication. Also, if you are pregnant.
The above information has been taken from the package insert that comes with Niacin medication.
You should also advise your physician if you have auto immune diseases such as arthritis as this may also negate the use of this medication.
Because high dosage of this medication causes side effects which I have dealt with on other posts. It is advisable to use this medication with a physician supervision.
Niacin is also readily available over the counter in pharmacies and other areas that sell this type of medication.
It is best NOT to purchase over the counter because of the reasons given above.
Stay Healthy
Laura
CHOLESTEROL FREE CHOCOLATE BLISS BITES(HIGH COCOA CONTENT)
Every now and then, when we crave chocolate, as many of us do, indulging in chocolate fat free treats are difficult to find over the counter and in most markets.
The following recipe is void of fat, low in carbs, and the calorie count is 25 cal per serving. A serving is one piece.
The demographics for this is as follows:
25 cal per cookie
1gm protein
6gms carb
0 gms fat
0 gms saturated fat
0 mg cholesterol
0.5gms fiber
13 mg of sodium
Recipe makes 24 chocolate cookies
Ingredients
one-half cup unsweetened cocoa
pinch of salt
one-half cup of sugar(divided)
3 lg egg whites
one-eight tsp cream of tartar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tlbs of confectioner sugar
1) Preheat oven to 300 Degree F
2) In a small bowl sift together cocoa, salt and one-quarter of sugar
3) In a large bowl, with an electric mixer at medium-low speed, beat egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form. Beat in remaining one-quarter cup of sugar a half tsp at a time until meringue is glossy and stiff peaks form. Fold in cocoa mixture and vanilla extract.
4) Drop by the rounded tsp about one inch apart onto prepared baking sheets. Bake 25 min for a soft cookie or 40 min for a crisp one. Dust cookie with confectioner sugar and enjoy.
By using cocoa to this recipe you are adding flavonoids to your diet and these compounds may prevent blood clots and hardening of the arteries.
Dark chocolate is higher in flavonoids because of its high cocoa content(and less sugar).
Tip of the day when indulging in chocolates that you buy, limit the amt. to 1 ounce a day.
Enjoy
,
The following recipe is void of fat, low in carbs, and the calorie count is 25 cal per serving. A serving is one piece.
The demographics for this is as follows:
25 cal per cookie
1gm protein
6gms carb
0 gms fat
0 gms saturated fat
0 mg cholesterol
0.5gms fiber
13 mg of sodium
Recipe makes 24 chocolate cookies
Ingredients
one-half cup unsweetened cocoa
pinch of salt
one-half cup of sugar(divided)
3 lg egg whites
one-eight tsp cream of tartar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tlbs of confectioner sugar
1) Preheat oven to 300 Degree F
2) In a small bowl sift together cocoa, salt and one-quarter of sugar
3) In a large bowl, with an electric mixer at medium-low speed, beat egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form. Beat in remaining one-quarter cup of sugar a half tsp at a time until meringue is glossy and stiff peaks form. Fold in cocoa mixture and vanilla extract.
4) Drop by the rounded tsp about one inch apart onto prepared baking sheets. Bake 25 min for a soft cookie or 40 min for a crisp one. Dust cookie with confectioner sugar and enjoy.
By using cocoa to this recipe you are adding flavonoids to your diet and these compounds may prevent blood clots and hardening of the arteries.
Dark chocolate is higher in flavonoids because of its high cocoa content(and less sugar).
Tip of the day when indulging in chocolates that you buy, limit the amt. to 1 ounce a day.
Enjoy
,
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
ADDING CHOLESTEROL LOWERING FOODS TO YOUR DIET
Our taste buds originate with our culture.
Except for Native Indians most of the foods we eat are dictated by the country our ancestors have migrated from and eventually these cultures take on the mainstay of the American diet. Which until recently had its origin with fast foods that are highly processed.
Today, with more Americans aware of the long term consequences of these cholesterol laden foods, things are changing.
The following are a list of ""Cholesterol Lowering Superfoods"".
Through our fast and furious media, the lowering of dietary cholesterol is forever being brought to our attention, and rightly so.
Most are aware of Salmon for its omega 3 which has been found to decrease heart disease when eaten twice a week.
Plant Sterols and Stanols have by research been found to lower ldl(the bad cholesterol by as much as 15 percent, they do this by keeping cholesterol from being absorbed
Potato Salad: Potatoes are rich in vitamin C and fiber both can protect the heart, this can be accomplished by a fiber called resistant starch and this can help lower heart disease by keeping blood sugar and insulin levels at a steady pace. Make a healthy potato salad by adding low fat mayo(or substitute your total fat with a good fat check label for good polyunsaturated fat or good monounsaturated fats). Also, add a low fat yogurt for a healthier dressing. Whatever else you add can add to the making of a tastier dish Eg. onions, salt, pepper, celery, even peppers if you so desire, as spices do not equate to increased cholesterol levels.
Asparagus and orange juice
These are loaded with folate (this vitamin can lower homocystine, homocystine is an amino acid that in large amounts increases chances for heart attack and stroke.
Pomegranate Juice
This is an antioxidant that may help reduce plaque on the carotid arteries as well as improve the function of the heart. When introducing this juice (as it is very concentrated) try using seltzer water and gradually increase the concentration until you can tolerate the concentrated product.
This is a good way to introduce something that is out of the food mainstay.
Wheat Germ Research suggests that it may prevent blood clots and thickening of the arteries. A good way to introduce is when you make your meatloaf (as meatloaf is a mainstay of many Americans) add the wheat germ to your meatloaf. This way no one will complain and your adding something healthy to their diet.
Flaxseed is high in cholesterol lowering fiber, it has omega 3 fatty acid's that can protect your heart.Introducing flax seed can be done by either grinding the product with a coffee grinder and then adding it to a meat loaf, oatmeal,or sprinkle in a stew or any other disguise.
Non Fat Milk, Yogurt and Puddings
Low fat dairy has been found to reduce blood pressure. The Framingham study that followed peoples in Framingham Ma.found that low levels of Vit D ""is"" associated with a high incidence of heart disease. Most doctor's today are testing for this vitamins level and will guide you to the appropriate amount to take. Make your own puddings using lo fat milk and keep low fat cheese or no fat cheese on hand for snacks.
The above foods can be introduced in a way that will enable your family to eat the foods that they enjoy and add an element of health.
This site deals with dietary as well as genetic cholesterol. Genetic cholesterol (lpa) has to be treated with medication.
The foods discussed above should only be used with your doctor's knowledge as some foods are not tolerated by all.
Stay healthy,
Except for Native Indians most of the foods we eat are dictated by the country our ancestors have migrated from and eventually these cultures take on the mainstay of the American diet. Which until recently had its origin with fast foods that are highly processed.
Today, with more Americans aware of the long term consequences of these cholesterol laden foods, things are changing.
The following are a list of ""Cholesterol Lowering Superfoods"".
Through our fast and furious media, the lowering of dietary cholesterol is forever being brought to our attention, and rightly so.
Most are aware of Salmon for its omega 3 which has been found to decrease heart disease when eaten twice a week.
Plant Sterols and Stanols have by research been found to lower ldl(the bad cholesterol by as much as 15 percent, they do this by keeping cholesterol from being absorbed
Potato Salad: Potatoes are rich in vitamin C and fiber both can protect the heart, this can be accomplished by a fiber called resistant starch and this can help lower heart disease by keeping blood sugar and insulin levels at a steady pace. Make a healthy potato salad by adding low fat mayo(or substitute your total fat with a good fat check label for good polyunsaturated fat or good monounsaturated fats). Also, add a low fat yogurt for a healthier dressing. Whatever else you add can add to the making of a tastier dish Eg. onions, salt, pepper, celery, even peppers if you so desire, as spices do not equate to increased cholesterol levels.
Asparagus and orange juice
These are loaded with folate (this vitamin can lower homocystine, homocystine is an amino acid that in large amounts increases chances for heart attack and stroke.
Pomegranate Juice
This is an antioxidant that may help reduce plaque on the carotid arteries as well as improve the function of the heart. When introducing this juice (as it is very concentrated) try using seltzer water and gradually increase the concentration until you can tolerate the concentrated product.
This is a good way to introduce something that is out of the food mainstay.
Wheat Germ Research suggests that it may prevent blood clots and thickening of the arteries. A good way to introduce is when you make your meatloaf (as meatloaf is a mainstay of many Americans) add the wheat germ to your meatloaf. This way no one will complain and your adding something healthy to their diet.
Flaxseed is high in cholesterol lowering fiber, it has omega 3 fatty acid's that can protect your heart.Introducing flax seed can be done by either grinding the product with a coffee grinder and then adding it to a meat loaf, oatmeal,or sprinkle in a stew or any other disguise.
Non Fat Milk, Yogurt and Puddings
Low fat dairy has been found to reduce blood pressure. The Framingham study that followed peoples in Framingham Ma.found that low levels of Vit D ""is"" associated with a high incidence of heart disease. Most doctor's today are testing for this vitamins level and will guide you to the appropriate amount to take. Make your own puddings using lo fat milk and keep low fat cheese or no fat cheese on hand for snacks.
The above foods can be introduced in a way that will enable your family to eat the foods that they enjoy and add an element of health.
This site deals with dietary as well as genetic cholesterol. Genetic cholesterol (lpa) has to be treated with medication.
The foods discussed above should only be used with your doctor's knowledge as some foods are not tolerated by all.
Stay healthy,
Friday, January 1, 2010
CHOLESTEROL FOUND IN HUMAN GALLSTONES
Yes, the gall bladder contains cholesterol. To give a brief explanation as to the site of the gall bladder,it is attached underneath the liver just below the rib cage , and is to the left of ones body.
It holds bile and it's primary function is to aid in digestion. Bile is made up of bile acids which are closely related to cholesterol and these acids primary function is to act as a mechanism to dissolve fats.
The gall bladder does hold cholesterol.
When the concentration of cholesterol reaches a high level the cholesterol comes out of solution(this means the fluid,this is bile) releases the cholesterol and thus the formation of gall stones begins.
Briefly, these stones are irritants to the gall bladder, and cause severe pain,as any one having a gall bladder attack will tell you the severity of the pain.
The main concentrations of cholesterol in the average human is 200g. and is found mainly in the spinal chord, brain, and nerve tissue.
Cholesterol is not soluble in water and is carried in the blood stream by lipoproteins. These are proteins that are bound to lipids.
Through the work of two physicians and their research with familial hypercholestrolemia, HDL""High Density Lipoprotein"" and LDL""Low Density Lipoproteins"" came to the forefront.
As many know, the ldl cholesterol is the bad cholesterol and hdl cholesterol is the good cholesterol.
Not many know that a high amount of ldl cholesterol leads to the deposition of cholesterol in the gall bladder resulting in gall stones.
The awareness of cholesterol deposits is geared mainly to the coronary arteries which leads to the development of plaque along the walls of the arteries.
This plaque cuts the flow of blood in the arteries and hastens the arteries formation of cholesterol along its the walls.
Again, limiting the amount of sat fats is critical in reducing cholesterol. and switching to unsaturated to replace the sat fats is a much healthier lifestyle.
The average American woman at the age of 75 has a 50 percent chance of developing gall stones.
Gallstones and coronary artery disease are much higher in those who are obese. Also, consuming large amounts of ""SUGAR"" and smoking will reduce the amount of hdl cholesterol.
Who is at risk?
1) Almost 70 percent of women in certain native American tribes acquire gall stones before the age of 30
2)Swedes and Finns are more afflicted with gallstones then Americans.
3)Among the Masai people of East Africa this disease is little known.
The information above was obtained from:
Macroscale and Microscale Organic Experiments
Tip of the day: Exercise will increase your HDL which does not harm your arteries and is beneficial to the decrease of ldl(the bad cholesterol)
Stay Healthy,
Laura
It holds bile and it's primary function is to aid in digestion. Bile is made up of bile acids which are closely related to cholesterol and these acids primary function is to act as a mechanism to dissolve fats.
The gall bladder does hold cholesterol.
When the concentration of cholesterol reaches a high level the cholesterol comes out of solution(this means the fluid,this is bile) releases the cholesterol and thus the formation of gall stones begins.
Briefly, these stones are irritants to the gall bladder, and cause severe pain,as any one having a gall bladder attack will tell you the severity of the pain.
The main concentrations of cholesterol in the average human is 200g. and is found mainly in the spinal chord, brain, and nerve tissue.
Cholesterol is not soluble in water and is carried in the blood stream by lipoproteins. These are proteins that are bound to lipids.
Through the work of two physicians and their research with familial hypercholestrolemia, HDL""High Density Lipoprotein"" and LDL""Low Density Lipoproteins"" came to the forefront.
As many know, the ldl cholesterol is the bad cholesterol and hdl cholesterol is the good cholesterol.
Not many know that a high amount of ldl cholesterol leads to the deposition of cholesterol in the gall bladder resulting in gall stones.
The awareness of cholesterol deposits is geared mainly to the coronary arteries which leads to the development of plaque along the walls of the arteries.
This plaque cuts the flow of blood in the arteries and hastens the arteries formation of cholesterol along its the walls.
Again, limiting the amount of sat fats is critical in reducing cholesterol. and switching to unsaturated to replace the sat fats is a much healthier lifestyle.
The average American woman at the age of 75 has a 50 percent chance of developing gall stones.
Gallstones and coronary artery disease are much higher in those who are obese. Also, consuming large amounts of ""SUGAR"" and smoking will reduce the amount of hdl cholesterol.
Who is at risk?
1) Almost 70 percent of women in certain native American tribes acquire gall stones before the age of 30
2)Swedes and Finns are more afflicted with gallstones then Americans.
3)Among the Masai people of East Africa this disease is little known.
The information above was obtained from:
Macroscale and Microscale Organic Experiments
Tip of the day: Exercise will increase your HDL which does not harm your arteries and is beneficial to the decrease of ldl(the bad cholesterol)
Stay Healthy,
Laura
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