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Is Celery the “cleanser” of cholesterol? You might have heard this statement many times, especially for the elderly who are concerned about cardiovascular health, as it has become a popular topic in daily diet. So, does celery truly have such magical powers? How does it work in our bodies?
We need to understand what cholesterol is. Cholesterol itself is not entirely bad. It is an essential component of cell membranes and is also involved in the synthesis of some hormones.
The issue arises when the level of cholesterol is too high, leading to its accumulation on the walls of blood vessels, forming plaques, which increases the risk of heart disease and stroke. High cholesterol is a common problem, especially among the elderly population.
Now, let’s go back to celery. Celery contains a special chemical component called luteolin, which is believed to help lower cholesterol levels in the blood. Furthermore, celery is rich in fiber, and the benefit of fiber is that it can help reduce the absorption of cholesterol in the body, further reducing the accumulation of cholesterol in the blood vessels.
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Celery is not a cure-all, nor is it the only way to treat high cholesterol. For those with significantly high cholesterol levels, relying solely on consuming celery may not be sufficient. They may also require medication and a more comprehensive dietary adjustment. Additionally, celery has a high sodium content, which may be a consideration for those needing to control their blood pressure.
However, for most elderly individuals pursuing a healthy lifestyle, adding an appropriate amount of celery to their diet is undoubtedly a good choice. It can not only help regulate cholesterol levels but also add some new flavors to their daily diet. Through balanced nutrition, moderate exercise, and regular check-ups, elderly individuals can effectively manage their cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Celery, as a common but powerful vegetable, is a hidden gem in our kitchen. It reminds us that sometimes the simplest foods often contain the most inconspicuous health secrets. So, next time you pass by that pile of fresh celery at the market, consider taking some home to enhance the cardiovascular health of you and your family.
Want to keep your blood vessels clear? In addition to celery, there are three other vegetables that should be regulars on your dining table. When it comes to cardiovascular health, the role of vegetables is crucial. Particularly for those at risk of cardiovascular diseases or those striving to maintain a healthy lifestyle, these vegetables can be considered “superheroes” in their diet.
Let’s not forget leafy greens, such as spinach and kale. These vegetables are rich in antioxidants, such as lutein and beta-carotene, which help combat cell damage caused by oxidative stress, a significant factor in atherosclerosis.
Moreover, leafy greens are also rich in vitamin K, a crucial vitamin for blood clotting. Equally important is its role in maintaining arterial health, preventing calcium deposition in blood vessels, and maintaining vessel elasticity.
Next, consider broccoli, a vegetable that has shown beneficial effects on cardiovascular health in various studies due to its high fiber content and antioxidants.
The sulfur compounds in broccoli, especially sulforaphane, can be converted into anti-inflammatory compounds in the body, crucial for reducing vascular inflammation. Prolonged inflammation can cause damage to the inner walls of blood vessels, leading to the accumulation of cholesterol and other substances at these damaged sites.
We also cannot overlook the role of carrots. Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, a potent antioxidant that can be converted into vitamin A, helping protect the heart and blood vessels’ health. Additionally, carrots contain fiber, which helps reduce cholesterol levels in the blood, preventing cardiovascular diseases.
Imagine this scenario: a middle-aged office worker, due to prolonged sitting and an unhealthy diet, has started experiencing elevated blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
The doctor advises him to incorporate specific vegetables into his daily diet. Several months later, he is pleasantly surprised to find that his blood pressure and cholesterol levels have significantly improved. This change is not just the direct result of vegetables on these indicators but more so due to his overall dietary habits moving towards a healthier direction, reducing dependence on high-calorie, high-fat foods.
Let’s start with beets. Beets are a vegetable rich in nitrates that can help lower blood pressure. Did you know? Those seemingly inconspicuous vegetables like beets and tomatoes actually have significant benefits for the heart!
The nitrates in beets are converted by our bodies into nitric oxide, a miraculous compound that relaxes our blood vessels, promotes smoother blood flow, and helps lower blood pressure. This benefit is not just ordinary because once blood circulation improves, the heart’s pressure decreases, and the individual’s vitality increases.
Furthermore, beets contain numerous antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress, reduce free radical damage, which is beneficial in preventing arterial hardening. The harder the arteries, the more difficult blood flow becomes, so this is particularly important.
Speaking of tomatoes, they are also exceptional! Tomatoes contain lycopene, the bright red pigment, which is a potent antioxidant. Studies have shown that it can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases by reducing the oxidation of low-density lipoprotein, commonly known as “bad cholesterol.”
References
[1]林雪琪.高密度脂蛋白胆固醇与症状性颅内动脉粥样硬化性狭窄患者脑组织低灌注的相关性研究,神经损伤与功能重建,2024-06-12
