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How does a diet full of antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables and whole grains reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease?

1) Increases HDL
2) Decreases hypertension
3) Reduces the atherosclerotic buildup
4) Lowers LDL

1 Answer

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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:

  1. 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.
  2. Decreasing hypertension: The high fibre content in whole grains and vegetables can help lower blood pressure, reducing the risk of hypertension and cardiovascular disease.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.

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