Final answer:
A diet full of antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables and whole grains can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease by increasing HDL cholesterol levels, decreasing hypertension, reducing atherosclerotic buildup, and lowering LDL cholesterol.
Step-by-step explanation:
A diet full of antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables and whole grains can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease through several mechanisms:
- Increasing HDL (good) cholesterol levels: Antioxidants, such as vitamin C, found in fruits and vegetables can increase HDL cholesterol levels which helps remove LDL (bad) cholesterol from the arteries.
- Decreasing hypertension: The high fibre content in whole grains and vegetables can help lower blood pressure, reducing the risk of hypertension and cardiovascular disease.
- Reducing atherosclerotic buildup: Antioxidants and fibre in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help reduce the buildup of plaque in the arteries, preventing the development of atherosclerosis.
- Lowering LDL (bad) cholesterol: Certain antioxidants, like beta carotene and lycopene found in fruits and vegetables, may help lower LDL cholesterol levels, reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease.