Lowering cholesterol reduces heart attack and stroke risk

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New research by the Nutrition and Lifestyle team at The George Institute has indicated that even small reductions in cholesterol can substantially reduce heart attacks and strokes. This occurs across a broad range of individuals, irrespective of age, sex or initial cholesterol level.

The research revealed that a ten percent lowering of ?bad’ LDL-cholesterol could save nearly 3000 Australian lives each year.

Cardiovascular disease is currently the leading cause of death among Australians, causing more than 50,000 or one third of all deaths each year. Raised blood cholesterol is one of the major contributing factors to cardiovascular disease. One in two Australian adults currently has a cholesterol reading above the recommended level, and many people with high cholesterol remain undetected.

Research author, Dr Rachel Huxley, says the key change to reduce cholesterol levels would be lowering saturated fat intake. “Almost all everyone would benefit from lowering their blood cholesterol. This means cutting down on full fat dairy products, convenience meals, takeaway foods, confectionary, cakes and biscuits.”

“The study shows what a positive impact this would make, saving nearly 3000 Australian lives a year.”

The research also revealed that as cholesterol levels are significantly influenced by diet, consuming the right types of food would deliver significant health benefits to the Australian population.

Source: The George Institute for International Health, Australia


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