Natural compounds as anti-atherogenic agents: Clinical evidence for improved cardiovascular outcomes

Atherosclerosis, a chronic progressive inflammatory condition characterized by the formation of lipid-laden lesions in arterial walls, is associated with substantial morbidity (including ischaemic stroke and myocardial infarction) mortality. Risk factors for atherosclerosis are well understood can be ameliorated evidence-based guideline-directed pharmaceutical agents (e.g. reduction circulating concentrations low-density lipoprotein cholesterol statins). Additionally, many natural products (usually food derivatives) ‘nutraceuticals’ (pharmaceutical formulations prepared from components foods) have been shown to favourable effects on risk atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. This literature review summarises evidence anti-atherogenic compounds. The article focuses which discussed international guidelines supported extensive high-quality randomized-controlled trial (RCT) data. We focus micronutrients (compounds present small quantities) nutraceuticals, particular, phytosterols, polyunsaturated ?-3 fatty acids red-yeast rice. conclude that ‘nutraceutical approach’ (identify active ingredients products; produce according Good Manufacturing Practice guidelines; evaluate them long-term outcomes trials) mechanism domains product research medicine move closer together.