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Integrative Cardiology/Preventive Cardiology
Antioxidants & Essential Nutrients that Prevent Cardiovascular Dysfunction
The cardiologist of the future must blend basic traditional training with new and proven complementary approaches
toward healing the heart. This includes basic grounded, conventional cardiological approaches combined with
phytonutrients, antioxidants, and essential nutrients in supporting cardiovascular function while preventing
cardiovascular dysfunction at the same time.
Clinical research has clearly documented the role of free radical damage in cardiovascular disease and even aging.
This may be the result of acute ischemia -- reperfusion injury, endothelial damage of
hyperhomocysteinemia, as well
as chronic oxidative damage secondary to lipid peroxidation.
The effects of antioxidant nutrients have been extensively evaluated in epidemiological, population and clinical
studies. Phytonutrients such as the natural flavonoids and carotenoids found in fresh fruits and vegetables and
vitamins C and E have powerful antioxidant effects. CoEnzyme Q10, perhaps one of the most significant medicinal
discoveries of the 20th Century, will stabilize membranes, minimize free radical risk and help protect the
cardiovascular system from the ubiquitous presence of oxidative stress. The ability of CoEnzyme QlO to regenerate
oxidized vitamin E offers yet another supporting role in cardiovascular protection.
An overabundance of pro-oxidant metals such as iron and copper can initiate adverse free radical reactions in the
body. Iron, copper, and other heavy metals, such as lead, mercury, and cadmium can restrict the activities of sulphur
and selenium-containing enzymes. The B complex, particularly folic acid, B12, B6, and PLP are also essential in the
prevention of hyperhomocysteinemia, another major risk factor for premature coronary artery disease.
Supplementing the body with these targeted nutritionals including precious B vitamins, minerals, Omega 3 oils, and
other cardiac supporting herbs in strongly recommended for preventing cardiovascular dysfunction as well as other
common degenerative disorders plaguing the 20th Century.
Objectives:
1. Define the relationship between free radicals and cardiovascular disease.
2. Discuss antioxidants and the role they play in free radical oxidative stress.
3. Review the impact essential nutrients have in preventive cardiovascular disease.
Dr. Stephen T. Sinatra, M.D., F.A.C.C. |