Journal of Holistic Nursing and Midwifery (Apr 2006)
Role of Antioxidants in Prevention of Cardio-Vascular Diseases
Abstract
Coronary heart diseases are the most preventable non-contagious diseases, but unfortunately, it is one of the major causes of mortality among humans in the industrialized and semi-industrialized countries. It is predicted that if this trend continues, it will lead to the death of approximately over 25 million people in the world by 2020. On the other hand, according to investigations it has been proven that antioxidants are substances that can contribute to the risk reduction of cardio-vascular diseases (CVD). This article has introduced the role of antioxidants in decreasing the risk of CVD. Experimental studies have shown that the most common factor related to the incidence of CVD is arteriosclerosis. In this connection, free radicals of oxidant substances obtained from the metabolism of high density cholesterols always play an essential and significant role. Other studies also demonstrate the contradictory role of antioxidants in the struggle against these detrimental substances and thus its role in delaying the process of atherosclerosis. Considering the importance of nutrition in the occurrence of most diseases, on one hand, and the establishment of essential role of antioxidants in the prevention of the common diseases such as CVDs, on the other hand, it is suggested that the education and encouragement of the general public for consumption of foodstuffs rich in these substances as well as the greater and optimal use of antioxidants and food supplements containing these substances in the food industries of our country is suggested.
