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Walnut polyphenolics inhibit in vitro human plasma and LDL oxidation
K J Anderson1, S S Teuber, A Gobeille
1Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Clinical Immunology, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA, USA.
The Journal of Nutrition
|November 6, 2001
Summary
Walnut polyphenols effectively inhibit in vitro oxidation of plasma and low-density lipoprotein (LDL). These findings highlight the potential antiatherogenic benefits of incorporating walnuts into the diet for cardiovascular health.
Area of Science:
- Nutritional Biochemistry
- Cardiovascular Research
- Food Chemistry
Background:
- Epidemiologic studies link nut consumption to reduced cardiovascular mortality.
- The specific contribution of nut polyphenols to antioxidant and cardiovascular protection remains largely unknown.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the antioxidant and LDL-protective properties of English walnut (Juglans regia) polyphenol extracts.
- To compare the efficacy of walnut extracts with ellagic acid in inhibiting in vitro oxidation.
Main Methods:
- In vitro assessment of plasma and LDL oxidation inhibition.
- Evaluation of effects on LDL alpha-tocopherol during oxidative stress.
- Determination of Trolox equivalent antioxidant activity (TEAC) and LC-ELSD/MS analysis of walnut extracts.
Main Results:
- Walnut extracts and ellagic acid significantly inhibited AAPH- and copper-mediated LDL oxidation.
- Walnut extracts demonstrated a greater inhibitory effect on copper-mediated LDL oxidation compared to ellagic acid.
- Plasma TBARS formation was dose-dependently inhibited by walnut extracts and ellagic acid, with extracts showing higher antioxidant activity than alpha-tocopherol.
Conclusions:
- Walnut polyphenolics are potent inhibitors of in vitro plasma and LDL oxidation.
- The identified polyphenolic compounds, including ellagic acid and ellagitannins, contribute to these protective effects.
- Walnut polyphenols warrant consideration for their antiatherogenic potential in dietary strategies.
