2023-08-04 22:00:00
Written by Enas Al-Banna, Saturday, August 05, 2023 01:00 AM
Tomatoes are a staple in most kitchens around the world, as they are versatile and can be cooked or eaten raw as a salad dressing. One of the most important things regarding tomatoes is their association with improving heart health, and some researchers have said they have effects Cholesterol lowered but they’re not really sure why.
How does high cholesterol affect heart health?
High cholesterol can greatly affect heart health because it leads to the buildup of fatty deposits (plaques) in the arteries, a condition known as atherosclerosis.
This can restrict blood flow, leading to chest pain, blood clots, and even heart attacks or strokes. Over time, these plaques can rupture, resulting in a blood clot that can block blood flow to the heart or brain. .
According to the World Heart Federation (WHF), high cholesterol kills 40.4 thousand people annually globally. A healthy body adds that it is a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke in both high- and low-income countries.
Do tomatoes help lower cholesterol?
Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant known for its heart-healthy benefits.” Lycopene is the reason for that red color. It acts as an antioxidant and its job is to scavenge free radicals, which can lead to anti-inflammatory diseases, heart problems, diabetes, cancer, and arthritis.
A study published in the Journal of Food and Chemical Toxicology examined the effects of dietary tomato juice intake on inflammation, insulin resistance, and high cholesterol. It found that the participants who resorted to tomato juice not only experienced a significant decrease in inflammatory markers such as TNF-α and IL-6, but their LDL cholesterol was also reduced.
But according to OnlyMyHealth, while lycopene may contribute to heart health more broadly, there is no direct scientific evidence yet that tomatoes specifically reduce cholesterol levels.
How to manage cholesterol levels effectively
Here’s how to manage or lower your cholesterol levels:
Eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein and healthy fats. Focus on foods known for their cholesterol-lowering properties, such as oats, barley, legumes, nuts and seeds.
Limit your intake of saturated and trans fats, which are found in high-fat dairy products, red meat, and processed foods.
Get regular physical activity, as it can help increase HDL cholesterol and lower LDL cholesterol. Dr. Ray recommends exercising for at least 30 minutes each day.
Avoid smoking and consuming alcohol as these two habits can affect your cholesterol levels and affect your heart health.
Being overweight or obese can contribute to high cholesterol levels, so maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise is crucial.
Chronic stress can affect cholesterol levels, so find ways to manage stress through relaxation techniques, mindfulness, or hobbies.
Some people may need medications to lower cholesterol, such as a statin or ezetimibe. These medications, along with lifestyle changes, play a vital role in lowering the level of cholesterol in the blood.
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