A study by the Open University of Catalonia in Spain suggests that including carotene-rich foods, such as carrots, in one’s diet may help keep arteries clean.
High carotene diets linked to low-fat levels in arteries
The study found that diets high in carotene were associated with lower fat levels in the arteries. Atherosclerosis, which is the buildup of fat in the arteries, can lead to narrowed blood vessels and poor circulation. This buildup, known as plaque, can also cause blood clots, increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
According to a recent study, having heart disease and genetic predisposition increases the risk of Alzheimer’s disease by tripling the accumulation of a specific protein. Researchers are actively working on improving the existing care for heart disease patients, emphasizing prevention and early detection to avoid severe complications.
Certain foods are rich in carotene, a photosynthetic pigment crucial for preventing cardiovascular disease. These foods include carrots, lettuce, tomatoes, spinach, sweet potatoes, cantaloupes, broccoli, bell peppers, apricots, mangoes, papayas, and pumpkins.
Earlier research has indicated the potential of carotene to provide a safeguarding impact, effectively preventing the occurrence of atherosclerosis.
Gemma Chiva Blanch, a researcher from the August Pi Sunyer Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBAPS), states that previous studies on the effects of carotene as supplements have been inconclusive and may even have a negative impact.
Eating fruits and vegetables protects against heart disease
In an effort to investigate further, the IDIBAPS primary healthcare research group conducted a study with 200 participants aged 50 to 70. They examined blood carotene levels and the presence of atherosclerotic plaques in the carotid artery using ultrasound imaging. The findings support existing research indicating that consuming a variety of fruits and vegetables can protect against heart disease.
According to the research findings, it is evident that there is an inverse relationship between the level of carotenes in the bloodstream and the extent of atherosclerotic plaque, especially among females. The evidence strongly supports the notion that a diet abundant in fruits and vegetables, rich sources of carotenes, can effectively decrease the susceptibility to cardiovascular disorders.
