Publication
Title
Natural products from mediterranean diet : from anti-hyperlipidemic agents to dietary epigenetic modulators
Author
Abstract
Background: Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are, currently, the major contributor to global mortality and will continue to dominate mortality rates in the future. Hyperlipidemia refers to the elevated levels of lipids and cholesterol in the blood, and is also identified as dyslipidemia, manifesting in the form of different disorders of lipoprotein metabolism. These abnormalities may lead to the development of atherosclerosis, which can lead to coronary artery disease and stroke. In recent years, there is a growing interest in the quest for alternative therapeutic treatments based on natural products, offering better recovery and the avoidance of side effects. Recent technological advances have further improved our understanding of the role of epigenetic mechanisms in hyperlipidemic disorders and dietary prevention strategies. Objective: This is a comprehensive overview of the anti-hyperlipidemic effects of plant extracts, vegetables, fruits and isolated compounds thereof, with a focus on natural products from the Mediterranean region as well as the possible epigenetic changes in gene expression or cardiometabolic signaling pathways. Methods: For the purpose of this study, we searched the PubMed, Scopus and Google Scholar databases for eligible articles and publications over the last five years. The keywords included: “hyperlipidemia”, “plant extract”, “herbs”, “natural products”, “vegetables”, “cholesterol” and others. We initially included all relevant articles referring to in vitro studies, animal studies, Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) and previous reviews. Conclusion: Many natural products found in the Mediterranean diet have been studied for the treatment of hyperlipidemia. The antihyperlipidemic effect seems to be dose and/or consumption frequency related, which highlights the fact that a healthy diet can only be effective in reversing disease markers if it is consistent and within the framework of a healthy lifestyle. Finally, epigenetic biomarkers are increasingly recognized as new lifestyle management tools to monitor a healthy dietary lifestyle for the prevention of hyperlipidaemic disorders and comorbidities to promote a healthy life.
Language
English
Source (journal)
Current pharmaceutical biotechnology
Publication
Sharjah : Bentham science publ ltd , 2019
DOI
10.2174/1573407215666190628150921
Volume/pages
20 :10 (2019) , p. 825-844
ISI
000488280400004
Pubmed ID
31264546
Full text (Publisher's DOI)
UAntwerpen
Faculty/Department
Research group
Publication type
Subject
Affiliation
Publications with a UAntwerp address
External links
Web of Science
Record
Identifier
Creation 10.09.2019
Last edited 12.11.2024
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