cardiovascular disease Archives

Exploring “The Great Cholesterol Myth”

I have a strong interest in the prevention of heart disease. I believe healthy nutrition and lifestyle are the keys to our health and well-being. In my early career as a cardiologist, working in the hospital setting, I was fascinated by the diagnosis and treatment of heart disease. Don’t misunderstand me, I still am. However, as the … Read more

Statins – Friend or Foe?

Last year I wrote a couple of articles about statin therapy, so maybe you think I should give it a rest. However, I think it is such a hugely important issue, and I have this strong feeling that the truth really has not emerged yet. Firstly, two recent scientific papers touching on the effects of … Read more

Apolipoprotein B (apoB)

Atherosclerosis may be described as a chronic inflammation in the arterial wall. It is caused by a complex interplay between lipoproteins, white blood cells (macrophages), the immune system and the normal elements of the arterial wall. This process leads to formations of atherosclerotic lesions or plaques that may protrude into the lumen of the artery … Read more

Ten Scientifically Proven Benefits of Low-Carb Diets

Public health guidelines generally focus on recommendations that guarantee adequate nutrition, vitamins, and minerals. Furthermore, they emphasize balancing calorie intake with physical activity. Dietary guidelines usually recommend eating healthy foods like vegetables, fruits, whole grains, fat-free or low-fat dairy products, seafood, and to consume less sodium, saturated fats, trans fats, added sugars, and refined grains. … Read more

LDL-Cholesterol – The “Bad” Cholesterol Explained

Low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) is an important factor when assessing the risk for developing heart disease. LDL -particles, in particular those who are small and dense, are atherogenic and increase the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). There is a strong and graded correlation between LDL-C and the risk of CVD, both in women and men, although this has been debated by some investigators. The evidence that reducing plasma LDL cholesterol reduces CVD risk is unequivocal. According to the European Society of Cardiology, the results of epidemiological studies as well as trials with angiographic or clinical endpoints conﬁrm that the reduction of LDL cholesterol must be