Abstract
Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) is now the most common cause of death in the 20th century and driven by industrialization, urbanization and associated lifestyle changes, it is taking place in every part of the world among all races, ethnic groups and cultures. In India CVD has increased in an alarming rate and has accounted for 32% deaths in 2000. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) 60% of the world’s cardiac patients will be Indian by 2010 [1]. Ischemic Heart Disease (IHD), to a large extent, is preventable. This is evident from studies in some countries where incidence of heart attacks and strokes has come down by over 25% by an aggressive approach on preventive aspects like avoiding smoking, doing more physical exercise, control over eating (especially fats, cholesterol rich foods and refined sugars), mental relaxation and effective control of high blood pressure, preferably by non-drug measures [2] Nutrients as dietary supplementation like vegetables and fruits decreasing the risk of development of various diseases including cardiovascular disease (CVD) [3]. Huge amount of antioxidants present in the vegetables and fruits may protect the myocardium either by inhibition of development of atherosclerosis or by inhibiting the oxidation process of Low Density Lipoprotein (LDL) [4]. Polyphenolic compounds are majorly present in the fruits, vegetable and other plant sources like oils with possible cardio protective and other medicinal properties [5]. Various researchers proved the antioxidant, antithrombotic effect of flavonoids and also inhibiting the cellular oxidation process [6-8]. Apples, Onions, tea, various cooking oils, broccoli and red wine are rich in flavonoids and most of the population in the western countries like USA, Europe and North America including these in their diet, but effect of these nutrients in CVD not well documented [5].
Citation
Sheikuduman MST. Role of Nutraceuticals in Ischemic Heart Disease. SM J Cardiolog and Cardiovasc Disord. 2016; 2(1): 1007s.