The Berry Factor

Dateline: 10/08/98

Cholesterol-we've come to associate the word with impending danger to the heart. Whether it's the pronouncements on television or the guidelines put out by the American Heart Association, we all try to watch what we eat. Earlier this week, scientists announced that certain types of berries may actually lower LDL cholesterol.

Regular screening, proper diet, and exercise play an important role in having healthy cholesterol levels. The reductive powers of various foods have been the subject of intense study in recent years. This is the first study of those reductive powers in berries.

Remember that cholesterol, in simple terms, can be subdivided into two types: LDL (the bad cholesterol) and HDL (the good cholesterol). Thus anything that lowers the level of LDL and doesn't significantly reduce the level of HDL is considered "good."

LDL, or low-density lipoprotein, contributes to build-up on the walls of blood vessels and can lead to a variety of circulatory problems including atherosclerosis, arteriosclerosis, stoke, and heart disease. HDL, or high-density lipoprotein, helps to reduce the amount of build-up on the walls of vessels.

Scientists measured and monitored the consumption levels of several groups in the study. Other factors were controlled for so that relative conclusions about berry consumption could be developed. In the study, blackberries had the highest effect on reducing LDL levels. Raspberries, cherries, blueberries, and strawberries had similar effects although not to the same extent as blackberries.

The researchers found that a certain phenol compound found naturally in berries was acting as an anti-oxidant. This effect was similar to previously published studies that elucidated the anti-oxidant properties of grapes.

Scientists hope to further study the effects of berries on LDL cholesterol levels to determine specific consumption levels. They speculate that consumption levels may be similar to those necessary for other health benefits from fruits and vegetables.

It is hoped that the development of additional consumption guidelines may reduce the number of people who develop heart-related diseases each year. Cardiovascular disease is one of the leading causes of death in many countries.

What preventive measures do you take to keep your cholesterol in check? Are diet and exercise a part of this regimen? Come over to the Biology Forum and share your thoughts, opinions, and feelings.

For additional information see:

• Eating Berries Can Help Lower LDL Cholesterol
  Science Daily article adapted from the original news release from The American Chemical Society.