Confronting Oxidized LDL: The Power of Antioxidant Vitamins
Fear not, oxidized LDL! To protect the sanctity of our cardiovascular health, we must employ the might of antioxidants to prevail in this battle!
Antioxidant Vitamins
Reactive oxygen species, you are the enemy that oxidizes LDL! To counter this, we wield the power of antioxidants. Vitamin E, the guardian of lipids, and vitamin C, the warrior of water-soluble substances, shall join forces. Trolox, show your true strength! Beware, the product sold in Japan under the same name is entirely different.
CoQ10
Behold the true power of the heart, indicated by the left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF)! Those who die suddenly often have low LVEF. Long-term steroid use can decrease LVEF, leading to sudden death. Here comes CoQ10 to the rescue! CoQ10 enhances antioxidant activity and supports heart function. However, synthesis decreases with age, necessitating external intake. Ubiquinol, lend us your reducing power!
Ribose
To supply the heart with energy, ribose is indispensable. Along with CoQ10, ribose can improve cardiovascular conditions by providing essential energy to the heart.
Resveratrol
After 12 weeks of resveratrol intake, diabetic patients showed improved arterial stiffness and reduced oxidative stress. Resveratrol mimics the effects of calorie restriction through Sirt and AMPK pathways.
Grape Seed Extract
Grape seeds contain powerful antioxidants. They have been shown to prevent heart enlargement caused by anabolic steroids and reduce oxidized LDL.
Are Artificial Sweeteners Villains?
Next, let us unveil the truth about artificial sweeteners, our nemesis. As health consciousness rises, natural foods are favored, while processed foods and additives are avoided. Yet, artificial sweeteners are often misunderstood.
Insulin Response and Weight
Artificial sweeteners can stimulate insulin, lower blood sugar, and increase appetite. However, if you can control your diet, artificial sweeteners can be a powerful tool for weight loss.
Safety Concerns
Artificial sweeteners like sucralose and acesulfame K are extremely sweet, requiring minimal use, thus reducing health impact. However, increased insulin response in obese individuals is a concern.
Effects on Behavior and Neurotransmitters
A study on mice showed that sugar promotes dopamine release more than artificial sweeteners, suggesting sugar's addictive potential but also its role in mental stability. The impact of artificial sweeteners is milder in comparison.
The Power to Clot Blood
Clotting blood is not a vice. This essential function, supported by vitamin K, is crucial for stopping bleeding.
The Role of Vitamin K
Vitamin K not only aids blood clotting but also prevents arterial sclerosis. Preventing the calcium paradox and calcification requires sufficient calcium intake.
Phosphorus and Osteopontin
Excessive phosphorus intake and osteopontin pose risks. Resveratrol helps reduce osteopontin and protects vascular health.
Understanding Glycation
Glycation, the reaction between sugar and amino acids, generates AGEs, leading to vascular stiffness and atherosclerosis.
Preventing Glycation
To prevent glycation, control sugar intake, improve insulin sensitivity, and maintain stable blood glucose levels. Regular AGEs measurement can also help monitor and manage risks.