Nutrition for Cardiovascular Health

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Questions and Answers

What is the main role of cholesterol in the body?

To act as a precursor in the synthesis of steroid hormones and vitamin D (correct)

To exclusively facilitate digestion of food

To absorb and store fat-soluble vitamins only

To serve solely as a source of energy

What lifestyle modification can effectively manage hypertension for cardiovascular health?

Engaging in sedentary behavior

Consuming high amounts of sugar

Increasing salt intake

Regular physical activity (correct)

Which of the following is a common risk factor for coronary heart disease?

Low triglyceride levels

Low blood pressure

Family history of premature coronary heart disease (correct)

High levels of HDL cholesterol

What effect does cigarette smoke have on endothelial cells?

It damages endothelial cells, leading to plaque formation. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary benefit of regular aerobic physical activity for individuals at risk of coronary heart disease (CHD)?

Strengthening of the heart muscle Signup and view all the answers

Which dietary approach is most effective when combined with sodium restriction to manage hypertension?

DASH diet Signup and view all the answers

What is considered a significant waist circumference measurement for diagnosing metabolic syndrome in men?

≥102 cm Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended minimum duration of moderate-intensity physical activity for adults per week to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease?

150 minutes Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following components is NOT part of the five criteria for diagnosing metabolic syndrome?

Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a modifiable risk factor for coronary heart disease (CHD)?

Male gender Signup and view all the answers

What dietary component is believed to inhibit cholesterol absorption in the intestine and increase cholesterol synthesis in the liver?

Phytosterols Signup and view all the answers

Which type of fatty acids is known to decrease LDL cholesterol levels?

Polyunsaturated fatty acids Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary goal for individuals with coronary heart disease (CHD) regarding LDL cholesterol?

Reduce elevated LDL cholesterol Signup and view all the answers

What lifestyle change is commonly recommended for managing both hypertension and body weight?

Become physically active Signup and view all the answers

What is the definition of hypertension based on blood pressure readings?

SBP > 140 mm Hg or DBP > 90 mm Hg Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about trans fats is true?

Trans fats increase LDL cholesterol levels. Signup and view all the answers

The National Cholesterol Education Program promotes which of the following approaches for lowering CHD risk?

Therapeutic Lifestyle Changes (TLC) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a significant dietary source of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA)?

Flaxseed oil Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Cardiovascular Disorders Overview

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death in the United States, affecting the heart and blood vessels.
Atherosclerosis, a key contributor to CVD, involves the narrowing and hardening of arteries due to cholesterol and inflammation.

Risk Factors for Coronary Heart Disease (CHD)

Major non-modifiable risk factors include increasing age, male gender, and family history of premature heart disease.
Major modifiable risk factors:
- High LDL cholesterol
- Low HDL cholesterol
- Hypertension and diabetes
- Obesity, physical inactivity, and cigarette smoking
- Poor dietary choices high in saturated fats

Impact of Cholesterol on CVD

Elevated LDL cholesterol raises the risk for coronary heart disease; a 1% reduction in LDL correlates with a 1% reduction in CVD risk.
Dietary interventions can help manage elevated LDL levels.

Effects of Cigarette Smoking

Smoking damages endothelial cells, increases LDL cholesterol levels, and reduces HDL cholesterol, promoting plaque formation.
Passive smoking exhibits similar detrimental effects on cardiovascular health.

Dietary Factors in LDL Clearance

Phytosterols: Derived from plants; inhibit cholesterol absorption and promote liver cholesterol synthesis, found in fruits, legumes, and whole grains.
Viscous Fibers: Soluble fibers, such as psyllium, help lower LDL by binding to bile acids to enhance cholesterol excretion, found in oats, fruits, and legumes.
Soy Protein: Contains essential amino acids; may improve cardiovascular health.
High-Protein Diets: The effect on CVD is debated; moderation is critical as they can be high in saturated fats.

Fatty Acids and CVD

Different types of dietary fat impact cholesterol levels:
- Saturated fats: Increase LDL cholesterol.
- Monounsaturated fats: Neutral or decrease LDL cholesterol.
- Polyunsaturated fats: Decrease LDL cholesterol.
- Trans fats: Increase LDL and decrease HDL cholesterol.
Omega-3 fatty acids (found in fish and flaxseed) prevent CVD by reducing triglycerides and inflammation.

National Cholesterol Education Program Guidelines

Prioritize dietary manipulation to manage hypercholesterolemia.
Therapeutic Lifestyle Changes (TLC) aim to lower LDL cholesterol to prevent CHD onset and recurrence.

Hypertension Overview

Hypertension is defined as SBP > 140 mm Hg or DBP > 90 mm Hg, prevalent in African Americans and older adults.
Key lifestyle factors: obesity, physical inactivity, high sodium intake, and smoking.

Treatment of Hypertension

Weight reduction can lower blood pressure significantly (~1 mm Hg/kg lost).
Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) emphasize high fiber, potassium, and low sodium intake.
Regular physical activity is crucial in managing blood pressure.

Benefits of Regular Physical Activity

Engaging in aerobic activity improves numerous health markers: lowers triglycerides, increases HDL cholesterol, reduces blood pressure.
Active individuals have a 50% lower risk of CHD compared to sedentary individuals; at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise daily is recommended.

Metabolic Syndrome

Characterized by abdominal obesity, insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, and hypertension.
Diagnosis defined by the presence of at least three components, including waist circumference and blood pressure metrics.
The primary focus is reducing cardiovascular risk factors.

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Description

This quiz covers essential nutritional strategies for preventing and treating cardiovascular disorders. Participants will learn about risk factors for coronary heart disease, the role of fatty acids, and lifestyle modifications to manage hypertension. Gain insights into medical nutrition therapy and address nutritional challenges faced by clients with heart failure.