| ScienceDaily (July 7, 2008) — Researchers at
the University of Reading have found that an over-the-counter Artichoke Leaf
Extract (ALE) from the globe artichoke plant can lower cholesterol in otherwise healthy individuals with moderately raised levels. Cardiovascular
diseases are the chief causes of death in the UK, and are associated with
raised circulating levels of total cholesterol in the plasma. Once plasma cholesterol reaches a certain level, drugs such as statins
are often prescribed to help reduce it. Intervention before concentrations
reaches these levels may help reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular
diseases without the need for drugs. This new piece of research has shown
that otherwise healthy people with moderately raised plasma cholesterol may
be able to lower their levels by taking this herbal supplement.
|
Globe artichokes. (Credit: iStockphoto/Liza
McCorkle) |
During the trial, 75 volunteers were given 1280mg (4 capsules) of an ALE,
or matched placebo, each day for 12 weeks. ALE consumption resulted in a
modest but favourable statistically significant reduction in total plasma
cholesterol after the intervention period.For over 10 years, the relationship between dietary intakes of
antioxidant nutrients and a reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases has been
recognised and investigated. Antioxidant nutrients include ‘non-essential’
phytochemicals (e.g. flavonoids) as well as ‘essential’ nutrients (e.g.
vitamins C, E). Several plant-rich sources of flavonoids, such as fruits and
vegetables, tea, red wine, cocoa and olive oil, have been associated with
lower risk of cardiovascular diseases, although the exact mechanisms for
their protective effects is still not clear. Research has shown that ALEs
are rich in various flavonoids.
Globe artichokes have been used traditionally in Europe to improve
digestive and urinary tract health. Artichoke leaf extracts (ALEs) are
currently used in Germany and Switzerland as a remedy for indigestion, and
are available in the UK as over-the-counter food supplements. Various
studies have provided an evidence base for their use in conditions such as
dyspepsia and irritable bowel syndrome.
Dr Rafe Bundy said “Reducing cholesterol levels can reduce the risk of
developing cardiovascular disease. Our research investigated whether ALE
could be beneficial to otherwise healthy people who had raised levels of
cholesterol but were not yet at a stage where they needed standard medical
intervention. ALE may provide another option which people could try over and
above a healthy diet in order to help lower plasma cholesterol.”
Journal reference:
1. Bundy R., et al. Artichoke leaf extract (Cynara scolymus)
reduces plasma cholesterol in otherwise healthy hypercholesterolemic adults:
a randomised double-blind placebo controlled trial.
Phytomedicine, DOI:
10.1016/j.phymed.2008.03.001
University of Reading (2008, July 7). Artichoke Leaf
Extract Lowers Cholesterol. ScienceDaily. Retrieved July 9, 2008,
from http://www.sciencedaily.com
/releases/2008/07/080702170607.htm
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