Diet and Atherosclerosis

Diet affects the risk of atherosclerosis mainly through blood cholesterol, blood pressure and body mass.Lipoproteins. Cholesterol is carried in the blood as lipoproteins. Low-density lipoproteins (LDL) carry cholesterol from the liver to the tissues. High LDL levels lead to cholesterol being deposited in artery walls, forming atheromas. High-density lipoproteins (HDL) carry cholesterol from the tissues back to the liver, where it can be removed. A high ratio of LDL to HDL increases the risk of CVD.Fats. A diet high in saturated fats raises LDL levels. Replacing saturated fats with polyunsaturated fats tends to lower LDL and raise HDL.Salt. A high salt intake lowers the water potential of the blood, so more water is retained. This increases blood volume and therefore blood pressure, which damages the endothelium.Antioxidants. Vitamins C and E, found in fruit and vegetables, are antioxidants. They reduce damage to cells, including the endothelium, caused by free radicals.Soluble fibre (for example in oats) helps to lower blood cholesterol.Energy. If energy intake is greater than energy output, the extra energy is stored as fat and body mass increases, raising the risk of obesity.