Natural compounds as anti-atherogenic agents: Clinical evidence for improved cardiovascular outcomes

Abstract

Atherosclerosis, a chronic progressive inflammatory condition characterized by the formation of lipid-laden lesions in arterial walls, is associated with substantial morbidity (including ischaemic stroke and myocardial infarction) and mortality. Risk factors for atherosclerosis are well understood and can be ameliorated by evidence-based and guideline-directed pharmaceutical agents (e.g. the reduction of circulating concentrations of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol by statins). Additionally, many natural products (usually food derivatives) and 'nutraceuticals' (pharmaceutical formulations prepared from components of foods) have been shown to have favourable effects on risk factors for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. This literature review summarises the evidence for anti-atherogenic natural compounds. The article focuses on agents which are discussed in international guidelines and are supported by extensive high-quality randomized-controlled trial (RCT) data. We focus on micronutrients (compounds present in food in small quantities) and nutraceuticals, in particular, phytosterols, polyunsaturated ω-3 fatty acids and red-yeast rice. We conclude that the 'nutraceutical approach' (identify the active ingredients in natural products; produce high-quality products according to Good Manufacturing Practice guidelines; evaluate them in long-term outcomes trials) is the mechanism by which the domains of natural product research and evidence-based medicine can move closer together.

Novel Therapeutical Approaches to Managing Atherosclerotic Risk

“…Based on above, we might confirm that nutraceuticals, especially those with confirmed properties and safety (nutrivigilance), might have many different beneficial properties, working a bit similarly to statins (=pleiotropic effects), not only related to LDL-C reduction, but also glucose, weight, and blood pressure reduction, improvement of the endothelial function and arterial stiffness with the reduction of inflammation and oxidative stress. However, we need to remember that they might be added as an add-on to therapy and cannot replace this [ 58 , 59 , 60 ].…”

Principales NTC y protocolos de caracterización en productos derivados de caña de azúcar

“…El aumento estadísticamente significativo de hemoglobina en niños en edad preescolar después del consumo de una bebida fortificada con los derivados de jugo de caña o sus extractos ha sido demostrado (Arcanjo et al, 2009), lo que los llevó a considerarlo como un fortificante alimentario (Nishad;Selvan;Mir;Bosco, 2017;Braga, 2013). También se han reportado efectos antiaterogénicos (Penson;Banach, 2021).…”

Dietary Supplements—For Whom? The Current State of Knowledge about the Health Effects of Selected Supplement Use

“…The International Lipid Expert Panel (ILEP) stated in 2017 that omega-3 fatty acids are proven to lower triglycerides (scientific evidence: class I, level A) [40,41] and added to this view in 2020 by indicating the need for EPA and DHA supplementation in heart failure, especially in patients after myocardial infarction [42]. According to the ILEP, omega-3 fatty acids in doses of 1-4 g daily reduce triglyceride levels by 18-25% [40].…”