Association of Plasma Phospholipid Long-Chain Omega-3 Fatty Acids with Incident Atrial Fibrillation in Older Adults: The Cardiovascular Health Study

BACKGROUND: Experimental studies suggest long-chain n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFA) may reduce risk of atrial fibrillation (AF). Prior studies evaluating fish or n-3 PUFA consumption from dietary questionnaires and incident AF have been conflicting. Circulating levels of n-3 PUFA provide an objective measurement of exposure. METHODS AND RESULTS: Among 3;326 US men and women […]

Health benefits of almonds beyond cholesterol reduction

Almonds are rich in monounsaturated fat; fiber; a-tocopherol; minerals such as magnesium copper; and phytonutrients; albeit being energy-dense. The favorable fat composition and fiber contribute to the hypocholesterolemic benefit of almond consumption. By virtue of their unique nutrient composition; almonds are likely to benefit other modifiable cardiovascular and diabetes risks; such as body weight; glucose […]

Effects of Roasting on Antioxidant Status and Phenolic Profiles of Commercial Turkish Hazelnut Varieties (Corylus avellana L.).

The effect of roasting on antioxidant status and phenolic profiles of seven commercial Turkish hazelnut varieties (namely (Çakildak; Fosa; Karafindik; Mincane; Palaz; Sivri; and Tombul) was assessed. Samples were examined for their total phenolics; oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) values; condensed tannins; and phenolic acids (free and bound forms). Significant losses (p < 0.05) in […]

Bioactivity and chemical composition of blackcurrant (Ribes nigrum) cultivars with and without pesticide treatment

Eleven blackcurrant cultivars grown with pesticide (PT) and without pesticide treatment (PF) were evaluated to compare the differences in plant growth and physical condition; total anthocyanin content; ascorbic acid content; total antioxidant capacity; effect on prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) production and anticancer cell proliferation activities. Results showed that the yield and growth of PT blackcurrants were […]

A review on the role of phytosterols: new insights into cardiovascular risk

Phytosterols; which are structurally related to cholesterol; are found in all plant foods with highest concentration occurring in vegetable oils and nuts. Phytosterols are known to reduce serum low-density lipoprotein cholesterol level without changing high-density lipoprotein cholesterol or triglyceride levels. Daily consumption of phytosterols-enriched foods is widely used as a therapeutic option to lower plasma […]