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Effect on hematologic risk factors for coronary heart disease of a cholesterol reducing diet

D J A Jenkins1, C W C Kendall, T H Nguyen

  • 1Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Clinical Nutrition & Risk Factor Modification Center, St Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

European Journal of Clinical Nutrition
|December 1, 2006
PubMed

Insights

A cholesterol-lowering diet significantly reduced hematocrit and neutrophils, potentially lowering coronary heart disease (CHD) risk. These findings suggest cardiovascular benefits beyond lipid reduction.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular Health
  • Hematology
  • Nutritional Science

Background:

  • Dietary portfolio interventions effectively lower serum cholesterol.
  • The impact of such diets on hematologic risk factors for coronary heart disease (CHD) remains unclear.
  • Reductions in hematocrit and neutrophils are associated with improved cardiovascular risk.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess changes in hematological indices linked to cardiovascular health.
  • To evaluate the effects of a cholesterol-lowering dietary portfolio over 1 year.

Main Methods:

  • 66 hyperlipidemic subjects consumed a diet rich in plant sterols, soy protein, viscous fibers, and almonds for 12 months.
  • 55 subjects completed the 1-year study, providing data for analysis.

Main Results:

  • Significant reductions observed in hemoglobin, hematocrit, red blood cell count, and neutrophils.
  • A significant increase in mean platelet volume was noted.
  • Increased red cell osmotic fragility did not reach statistical significance.

Conclusions:

  • The observed hematological changes align with a reduced risk of CHD.
  • Further research is necessary to confirm if these hematological shifts contribute to cardiovascular benefits beyond lipid and blood pressure improvements.
Abstract

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