Chapter 12 - Preventive and Therapeutic Effects of Dietary Fibers Against Cardiovascular Diseases

Abstract

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and coronary diseases are leading causes of mortality and morbidity in developed countries. In recent years, although the incidences of these have declined among European countries and United States, it still accounts for almost half (48%) of all deaths in Europe and a third (32.8%) in US. CVD is an inflammatory disease associated with hypercholesterolemia and hypertension. Etiological studies have suggested that modified lipoproteins (e.g., oxidized) present in the arterial subendothelium plays a key role in CVD and coronary heart disease (CHD). Dietary fibers of terrestrial and marine origin are the cornerstones for CVD treatment. Cellulose, hemicellulose, gums, mucilages, pectins, oligosaccharides, lignins, etc. were reported to lower atherogenic lipoprotein levels and degree of oxidation, blood pressure, thrombogenesis, and concentrations of some relevant factors (homocysteine), thus averting CVD and CHD. In this chapter, the emphasis is specified on the therapeutic role of dietary fibers and its components in the prevention of cardiovascular and other relevant diseases. Importance is given to in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies to bring forth the significance of dietary fibers as a nutraceutical.