Vitamin C Nurtures Arteries

A primary role of vitamin C in preventing coronary artery disease is by maintaining the integrity and stability of the blood vessels. Vitamin C deficiency results in the weaking of connective tissue and loss of endothelial function. The endothelium is a thin layer of protective cells lining the artery. The endothelium is something like the guardian angel of the arteries.

In cholesterol metabolism troublesome low density lipoproteins (LDL), Lp(a) and very low density (VLDL) are inversely correlated with vitamin C concentrations. HDL cholesterol levels are positively correlated.

Vitamin C helps HDL production which leads to an increased removal of fats deposited in the

artery and to a decrease of the atherosclerotic lesion. Vitamin C is known to stimulate 7 a hydroxylase, a key enzyme in the conversion of cholesterol to bile acids.

In prostaglandin metabolism vitamin C increases prostacyclin and prostaglandin E levels (vasodilators) and decreases thromboxane (vasoconstrictor) levels.

Naturally Nova Scotia offers a natural source of vitamin C from organic Acerola Berries, no synthetics, no artificial flavors and no fillers. Their Vitamin C Acerola is available in a powdered drink mix, and easy to swallow caplets. They also offer a Fruit Antioxidant* tablet, again no synthetics, made with organic bilberry, lingonberry, black current etc. Simply stated these two product nurture and protect the arteries. (pure goodness for you and your loved ones) www.NaturallyNovaScotia.com

*Antioxidants neutralize free radicals in the body. In the artery antioxidants inhibit LDL cholesterol from becoming polluted (oxidized).

Red Wine Nurtures . . . the arteries

Like vitamin C, red wine also has antioxidant properties and protects LDL cholesterol from brewing and becoming troublesome in the arteries. Red wine affords added cardio protective benefits due to platelet activity.

In the artery platelets (tiny blood cells) travel about, looking for injury, such a tiny scratch in the artery to repair. Upon finding an injury the platelets cluster to seal up the scratch. The platelets tend to attract more platelets. This contributes to buildup (like a scab) in the artery. If this type of platelet buildup loosens, the fragments can float down a coronary artery, and can cause a blockage that reduces nutrients and oxygen to the heart muscle. The heart muscle cells beyond the blockage (platelet fragments) then die. This results in a heart attack.

Red wine is superior at inhibiting platelet stimulation, build-up and adhesion. Of additional benefit red wine increases HDL cholesterol. HDL cholesterol neutralizes LDL cholesterol in the arteries and transports LDL cholesterol to the liver for removal. These cardio protective benefits can be achieved with four ounces of red wine four times a week.

The Native Muscadine grape has unique & potent anti oxidant properties (distinct from other grape varieties). The San Sebastian Winery, Florida offers Vintners Red an economical premium table wine made from the Noble variety of the Native Muscadine grape. Visit this family run winery at www.SanSabestianWinery.com

Exercise Joyfully. . . not to lose weight

Exercise improves insulin sensitivity. Insulin is a hormone that transports blood sugar (glucose) to cells for use as energy. If glucose can not get into cells, the body is fatigued, immunity is reduced . . . and the glucose becomes stored body fat: (weight gain). Excess fat (adipose tissue) is metabolically active and becomes troublesome to the heart and arteries. 

Exercises also contributes to healthy blood pressure by stimulating nitric oxide (a protective molecule) which keeps arteries open and relaxed.

Exercise joyfully Tai Chi, Yoga, rumba, tennis, or swimming throughout the week. When exercising for enjoyment (not to loss weight) the mind internalizes this positively and releases cell nurturing feel good hormones. Parasympathetic tone then becomes enhanced allowing body cells to renew.