American Heart Association says Mediterranean diet with virgin olive oil may boost ‘good’ cholesterol

American Heart Association Rapid Access Journal Report

Dallas, TX – A Mediterranean diet rich in virgin olive oil may enhance the cardioprotective benefits of high-density lipoproteins (HDL—the “good” cholesterol) compared to other diets, according to new research in the American Heart Association’s journal Circulation.

High levels of low-density lipoproteins (LDL—the “bad cholesterol”) and triglycerides, a type of blood fat, are associated with an increased risk of heart and blood vessel diseases. HDL cholesterol is associated with a lower risk because these lipoproteins help eliminate the excess cholesterol from the bloodstream.

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American Heart Association says poor response to Cholesterol Drugs may indicate blocked Arteries

Dallas, TX – If your “bad” cholesterol level stays the same or increases after you take statin drugs, you may have more blocked arteries than people whose levels drop, according to research in the American Heart Association journal Arteriosclerosis, Thrombosis and Vascular Biology.

Low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol is considered the “bad” cholesterol because it contributes to plaque buildup, thick, hard deposit that can clog arteries and make them less flexible. [Read more]

ShopSmart Decodes Tricky Food Labels

What those health claims on food and beverage really mean; plus, those consumers can trust

Yonkers, NY – The package says “heart healthy,” “reduces cholesterol,” or “maintains digestive health.” But what do these food labels really mean? The full report on tricky food labels is available in the September 2013 issue of ShopSmart.

“Promises of better health, weight-loss and more can be enticing, but claims can be misleading and you may not be doing yourself any favors buying foods that make these types of promises,” said Lisa Lee Freeman, editor-in-chief of ShopSmart. [Read more]