The effect and importance of Phytochemicals in patients with cardiovascular diseases from several aspects.
Abstract:
Phytochemicals, naturally occurring compounds found in medicinal plants, have emerged as significant contributors to the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). This review explores the multifaceted roles of phytochemicals, including flavonoids, plant sterols, and terpenoids, in protecting against CVDs. These bioactive compounds exhibit antioxidant, anti- inflammatory, and anti-atherosclerotic activities, contributing to their cardioprotective effects. Flavonoids, characterized by polyphenolic structures, have demonstrated promising cardiovascular benefits in epidemiological and experimental studies. Plant sterols, with structural similarities to cholesterol, found in various food sources, contribute to the modulation of cholesterol levels, while terpenoids, a diverse group of lipids, present in numerous plant families, offer bioactive properties.
Introduction
Phytochemicals have been found to play a significant role in patients with cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) from various aspects. These compounds, present in medicinal plants, have shown potential in preventing and treating CVDs by exhibiting antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-atherosclerotic activities [1]. The active phytochemicals found in plants such as flavonoids, polyphenols, plant sterols, plant sulfur compounds, and terpenoids have been
identified to have cardioprotective effects [3]. They work by
preventing low-density lipoprotein oxidation, decreasing cholesterol absorption, activating specific signaling pathways involved in inflammation and oxidative stress, and reducing the risk
of atherosclerosis [5]. Additionally, phytochemicals like apigenin,
quercetin, and silibinin have shown potential cardioprotective effects in preclinical and clinical studies, although further research is needed to understand their mechanisms and optimize their use. Overall, phytochemicals offer promising therapeutic options for patients with CVDs, and their importance in preventing and managing these diseases cannot be overlooked.
Flavonoids
Flavonoids are a class of bioactive chemicals with polyphenolic structures and consist of one heterocycle and two phenyl rings [79]. Flavonoids have recently been identified as chemicals with decisive biological actions that may help protect chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease [80]. In numerous epidemiological and experimental research, flavonoid intake has been inversely related to cardiovascular disease events. Many flavonoids from beverages, spices, vegetables, fruits, and medicinal plants have been reported for their beneficial effect on CVD [81].
Plant sterols
Plant sterols are bioactive compounds that perform similarly to cholesterol in animals. They are alkaloids with a side chain structure that differs from cholesterol [87]. Vegetables, cereals, pieces of bread, spreads and margarine, and vegetable oils are the principal plant sterols sources, accounting for 50–80% of daily plant sterol consumption, with fruits accounting for the remaining 12% [88, 89]. Oily fruit, oil seeds, and oils derived from them have the highest
food content in plant sterols [90, 91]. Corn oil, wheat germ oil, and rapeseed oil are the oils highest in sterols, while pistachios have the greatest content among the numerous varieties of fatty fruit [92]. They are also present in cereals and legumes [93]. The average daily consumption of plant sterols in a typical Western diet is around 300 mg, but vegetarians can obtain as high as 600 mg [80, 88, 94]. Stigmasterol, campestral, and sitosterol (Figure 5) are the most frequent plant sterols in the human diet, accounting for roughly 3%, 30%, and 65% of total food content, respectively [88, 89].
Terpenoids
Terpenoids are a wide and diversified group of lipids found in nature. One or more isoprene units make up their structure [98]. Sesquiterpenes, diterpenes, and monoterpenes are obtained from specialized structures such as lysigenous glands, cell schizogenous glands, and ducts. They exist in Lauraceae, Myrtaceae, Umbelliferae, Zingiberaceae, Piperaceae, Rutaceae, and Labiataceae. Plant terpenoids are widely utilized for their fragrant properties, and
salvinorin-A, camphor, menthol, and terpenoids, including citral have been researched for their bioactivity [16].
Conclusion:
Phytochemicals represent a promising avenue for the prevention and management of cardiovascular diseases. The antioxidant, anti- inflammatory, and cholesterol-modulating properties of flavonoids, plant sterols, and terpenoids contribute to their cardioprotective effects. The potential therapeutic benefits of specific phytochemicals, such as apigenin, quercetin, and silibinin, underscore the need for further research to elucidate their mechanisms and optimize clinical applications. As dietary components, these phytochemicals can be easily incorporated into daily nutrition, offering a natural and holistic approach to cardiovascular health. Overall, understanding and harnessing the potential of phytochemicals provide valuable insights for developing complementary strategies in the prevention and management of cardiovascular diseases.
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