A new study from Linkoping University in Sweden found lutein, a component of brightly colored vegetables and fruits, can suppress inflammation.
Scientists are increasingly highlighting the role of inflammation in the development of cardiovascular disease.
Even a weak inflammatory process eventually leads to damage to the inner lining of the arteries, the deposition of atherosclerotic plaques with all the ensuing consequences.
Carotenoids are natural substances with pronounced anti-inflammatory properties.. It has been suggested that they are responsible for the beneficial effects of a plant-based diet on the heart and blood vessels.. Swedish scientists decided to test how the carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin affect markers of inflammation in vitro and directly in human blood.
“A significant percentage of patients who have had a heart attack show signs of a chronic inflammatory process. After successful revascularization, medication, and lifestyle modifications, they continue to be at risk. We clearly know that minor inflammation is associated with a poor prognosis, ”explains Lena Jonasson, professor of cardiology..
During the work, the authors determined the content of lutein, zeaxanthin,? -cryptoxanthin, lycopene,? - and? -carotene in blood plasma of 134 patients with stable angina pectoris and 59 patients with acute coronary syndrome. In 42 cases, analyzes were repeated 3 months after percutaneous coronary intervention. The level of interleukins IL-6 and IL-1 was determined? , as well as TNF - markers of the inflammatory process.
Analyzes have shown that lutein is the only carotenoid, the level of which correlates with the intensity of inflammation.. The more lutein in the patient's blood, the lower the IL-6.
In the second phase of the study, scientists treated the cells of the immune system with various carotenoids, observing their activity.. Isolated lymphocytes, which contained the highest amount of lutein, behaved relatively calmly in vitro.
“Our study confirms that lutein, a component of colorful fruits and vegetables, can suppress chronic inflammation in people with coronary heart disease.. We also demonstrated that lutein is absorbed and stored by immune cells, ”commented project co-author Rosanna Chung..
medbe. ru.