Type 2 diabetes - plant molecules help lower LDL cholesterol and blood sugar

In May 2018, Nutrition and diabetes It has been reported in studies showing plant sterols, molecules that lower cholesterol, LDL or "bad" cholesterol and molecules that lower blood fat in individuals at risk of developing type 2 diabetes or at risk. Scientists at the Unilever R and D in the Netherlands and the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization at Adelaide in Australia did this work.

A total of 138 people, 44 with type 2 diabetes and 94 with a risk of developing illness, were given a low fat spread for 6 weeks at a dose of 2 mg daily, with or without plant sterols. Participants consuming the indicated plant sterols significantly reduced total cholesterol levels, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides until the end of the study. HDL levels or "good" cholesterol were not affected. Level did not rise.

Cholesterol and triglyceride levels are a matter of concern for people diagnosed with type 2 diabetes Because heart disease and vascular disease are complications of this condition. Prevention of high levels of LDL cholesterol and triglycerides will help prevent artery clogging ...

• Total cholesterol. Measured values ​​below 200 mg / dl are desirable levels to lower the risk of coronary artery disease.
• HDL cholesterol is known as "good" cholesterol. This type of cholesterol works to remove unhealthy deposits of arterial walls. Levels higher than 40 mg / dl are considered good.
• LDL cholesterol is reported to be "bad" cholesterol. When oxidized, this type of fat adheres to the vessel wall and forms an inflammatory cascade leading to the deposition of atherosclerotic plaque. It is ideal to maintain a level below 100 mg / dl.
• Triglyceride Is Another type of fat in the blood. A good level is 150 mg / dl or less. The test is usually carried out after fasting for 8 to 12 hours.

The following foods are a good source of sterols ...

• Wheat germ,
• Wheat bran,
• Peas such as peanuts,
• Corn oil,
• Canola oil,
• Olive oil,
• Sesame oil,
• Almond,
• The bud of Brussels,

Various other fruits and vegetables are also the source. Commercially available supplements are also available.

Statin family medicines are also used for low cholesterol and triglycerides. They can cause stomach upsets and liver problems not seen in individuals who eat plant sterols.

The following is a statin ...

• Lipitor (atorvastatin),
• Zocor (simvastatin)
• Recall (fluvastatin)
• Crestor (rosuvastatin),
• Pravachol (pravastatin), and
• Mevacor (lovastatin.)

Statins are given to prevent ...

• heart attack,
• Hypertension, and
• stroke.

If you have health problems, please consult your doctor.