A research group from the First Affiliated Hospital of Yangtze University in China discovered two types of fruit that can reduce the risk of early death from all causes, especially cardiovascular events, in people with dyslipidemia.
Fortunately, these two fruits are easily accessible and enjoyable: apples and bananas.
In an article published in the scientific journal Frontiers in Nutrition, the authors pointed out that dyslipidemia, or disordered blood lipid levels, is significantly increasing in many countries and becoming more prevalent in younger populations.
This condition damages and impairs the function of endothelial cells, which is a foundation for the development of atherosclerosis and a leading cause of serious cardiovascular diseases.
Notably, the incidence and mortality rates of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases tend to be higher in individuals with dyslipidemia, especially when coupled with hypertension or diabetes.
Optimizing nutrition is, therefore, an important intervention to mitigate these dangerous events.
In a 10-year study involving nearly 2,200 middle-aged individuals with dyslipidemia, the scientists made interesting discoveries. Results showed that consuming apples 3 to 4 times a week could reduce the risk of early death from all causes, particularly cardiovascular disease, by up to 39%.
Substituting apples with bananas lowered the risk by 29%. Interestingly, those who consumed both apples and bananas had a potential risk reduction of 45%. While other fruits were considered, none showed similar effectiveness.
Previous international studies have also confirmed that apples and bananas are rich in beneficial bioactive compounds, helping to control cardiovascular issues, including dyslipidemia and its complications.