This Morning: Dr Chris discusses rise in heart disease deaths
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Heart disease is the name given to a blockage in the heart’s blood supply that’s caused by a build-up of fatty substances. Dandelions contains powerful compounds which are said to help protect a person from the fatal condition of heart disease. How?
Contrary to popular belief, dandelions are not just pesky garden weeds.
For centuries, dandelions have been used to treat a myriad of physical ailments, including cancer, acne, liver disease and digestive disorders.
Some of the bioactive compounds in dandelion may lower cholesterol, which may decrease heart disease risk.
The flower of the dandelion has antioxidant properties.
Antioxidants are used to counteract inflammatory factors that lead to cellular damage.
The oxidation of LDL cholesterol starts the process of arterial plaque formation and heart disease.
In a study published in the US National Library of Medicine National Institutes of Health, cholesterol-lowering and antioxidant effects of dandelion were analysed. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20162002/
The study noted: “Recent reports have indicated that excessive oxidative stress contributes to the development of atherosclerosis-linked metabolic syndrome.
“The objective of this current study was to investigate the possible hypolipidemic and antioxidative effects of dandelion root and leaf in rabbits fed with a high-cholesterol diet.
“Our results show that treatment with dandelion root and leaf positively changed plasma antioxidant enzyme activities and lipid profiles in cholesterol-fed rabbits.”
The study concluded that dandelion root and leaf could protect against oxidative stress linked atherosclerosis and decrease the atherogenic index.
Lowers blood pressure to reduce the risk of a heart attack
The leaves of a dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) plant act as a natural diuretic increasing urine production. They may be used to treat conditions that require a mild diuretic, such as high blood pressure and liver disorders.
Dandelions contain potassium, a mineral associated with lowered blood pressure in those with previously elevated levels.
Thus, dandelion may have an indirect effect on blood pressure due to their potassium content.
How to use
Dandelion leaves are sometimes present in salads, but they are not widely available in all areas, said Medical News Today.
The health site continued: “Picking dandelions in a backyard is unsafe due to the potential presence of pesticides or animal excrement.
“However, it is possible to obtain dandelion supplements or teas and coffees infused with dandelion root.
“Dandelion supplements can cause allergic reactions in some people.
“People should not use dandelion supplements if they are sensitive to dandelions or certain other plants, such as ragweed, daisies, or chrysanthemums, or marigolds.”
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