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Dietary patterns and endothelium dysfunction: a literature review
Van H Nguyen1, Leticia Radin Pereira2, Oliver M Shannon3
1School of Population Health, Curtin University, Perth, Australia; Dementia Centre of Excellence, EnAble Institute, Curtin University, Perth, Australia.
Nutrition, Metabolism, and Cardiovascular Diseases : NMCD
|January 4, 2026
Summary
Healthy dietary patterns, such as Mediterranean and DASH, protect endothelial integrity and prevent endothelial dysfunction (ED). This promotes lifelong cardiovascular and brain health, reducing risks of heart disease, stroke, and cognitive decline.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Science
- Neuroscience
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Endothelial integrity is crucial for cardio-metabolic and neurological functions.
- Endothelial dysfunction (ED) drives atherosclerosis, heart disease, stroke, and cognitive decline.
- Dietary patterns significantly influence endothelial health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the relationship between dietary patterns and endothelial health.
- To investigate the protective effects of healthy diets on endothelial integrity and ED.
- To highlight the role of endothelial health in preventing cognitive decline.
Main Methods:
- Review of observational and experimental studies.
- Analysis of dietary patterns' impact on endothelial function and vascular biomarkers.
- Exploration of mechanisms underlying endothelial protection and ED.
Main Results:
- Plant-based diets (Mediterranean, DASH) improve endothelial function via nitric oxide bioavailability, reduced oxidative stress, and improved gut microbiome.
- Other diets (Japanese, Nordic, Palaeolithic) show potential cardiovascular benefits and anti-inflammatory effects.
- ED is a critical factor in cognitive decline, dementia, and stroke by impairing cerebral blood flow and brain function.
Conclusions:
- Maintaining endothelial health through specific dietary patterns is vital for preventing cardiovascular and neurological diseases.
- Adherence to diets like Mediterranean and DASH supports endothelial integrity, promoting lifelong heart and brain health.
- Dietary interventions represent a promising strategy for cognitive protection and dementia risk reduction.
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