High cholesterol levels, moving fat like, triglycerides are the first indications of the onset of cardiovascular diseases. But instead of just taking pills, doctors are increasingly advising patients a change in both diet and lifestyle foods which give strength and stamina are also being suggested. One such preferred fruit is grape fruit, which is rich in vitamin C and also contains calcium, phosphorous, magnesium, manganese, zinc, copper and iron. Grape fruit has the potential to boost the action of many prescription drugs being handed to patients like antibiotics, anti-hypertensive drugs, statins that are used in lipid lowering, etc. it can also enhance the power of these drugs through deactivating a gastrointestinal enzyme that normally breaks down medication before absorption in to the blood stream.
While grape fruit is still under the scanner, the established health benefits of certain foods which have bioactive components and elicit cardio-protective effects are:
1 . Whole Oats
and barley have beta-glucan and soluble fiber which lower total cholesterol. It is recommended to take three grams per day.
and barley have beta-glucan and soluble fiber which lower total cholesterol. It is recommended to take three grams per day.2 . Soy is found to have proteins and flavonoids which defeat the bad cholesterol in blood, responsible for blockages. It is recommended to take 25 grams/per day.
3 . Fish (fatty fish-tuna, salmon, mackerel) have omega 3 fatty acids and reduce risk of cardio trouble.
4 . Whole grains have soluble fiber and folate which reduce CVD risk. At least 85 grams/day must be taken.
5 . Nuts (Walnuts
and Almonds
). They have unsaturated fatty acids and are rich in vitamin E and poly unsaturated fatty acids.
and Almonds). They have unsaturated fatty acids and are rich in vitamin E and poly unsaturated fatty acids.6 . Red wine and grapes reduce platelet aggression. Recommended dosage is 240 to 480 ml per day.
Apart from these, a recommended diet is the one which is rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grain and less of oil. Dr Premalatha explains, “Vegetables and fruits are rich sources of micro nutrients and antioxidants therefore high intake of raw or appropriately prepared variety of fruits and vegetables is a better preventive strategy against cardiovascular disease, rather than a pharmacological dose of single antioxidant nutrient.