Research has
consistently revealed the significant role inflammation plays in the
development of atherosclerosis (narrowing of the arteries). C-reactive protein
(CRP) is a key marker for inflammation that many mainstream researchers now
regard as a far more reliable predictor of atherosclerosis than elevated LDL
cholesterol.
But now, CRP
may have met its match…White Blood Cells
(WBCs).
The new red flag
WBCs (also
known as leukocytes) are an important part of the immune system; WBC count
rises when the body is fighting infection due to bacteria or viruses. A new
study shows that white blood cell count may provide doctors with an accurate
and easy-to-use tool for predicting heart disease.
Researchers examined data collected from the Women's Health Initiative, an ongoing study from the National Institutes of Health, USA. More than 72,000 women aged 50 to 79 participated, who had no history of cardiovascular disease (CVD).
After an average of six years of follow up, researchers found that:
Researchers examined data collected from the Women's Health Initiative, an ongoing study from the National Institutes of Health, USA. More than 72,000 women aged 50 to 79 participated, who had no history of cardiovascular disease (CVD).
After an average of six years of follow up, researchers found that:
- Women with the highest WBC counts
at the outset of the study were more than twice as likely to die from
coronary heart disease compared to women with the lowest WBC counts
- Those with the highest counts
also had a significantly increased risk of stroke and nonfatal heart
attack.
- The highest WBC counts in the
study did not exceed the upper end of the ‘normal’ range, (which means it
was not an extremely high count)
- The results demonstrate that WBC
count may be just as reliable as CRP in predicting cardiovascular events
linked to coronary heart disease.
The chicken or the egg dilemma
Inflammation however presents a chicken-or-egg dilemma. Researchers are not yet sure if atherosclerosis triggers inflammation or if inflammation sets the stage for atherosclerosis. In either case, inflammation presents a problem that won't be solved with a ‘one-size-fits-all’ quick fix. (But that won’t stop our friends at the drug companies from trying!)
A case in point: Drug companies have started positioning some of their products to treat patients with elevated CRP…even though CRP is considered a MARKER, not the CAUSE of inflammation.
Some natural solutions for
inflammation
Enzymes such
as Bromelain, Curcumin (an extract from the spice Turmeric), Omega 3 Fatty
Acids from Fish Oil or Flaxseeds, are some of nature’s best anti-inflammatories.
Raw walnuts are another good source.
Note:
In cases of severe inflammation, therapeutic doses of Omega-3, certain amino
acids and herbs (under the care of a knowledgeable naturopath) may be needed.
The next time you go for a check up, ask your doctor to check your CRP and WBC levels. Somewhere in those readings lies the spark that can ignite the potentially dangerous flame of heart disease.
The next time you go for a check up, ask your doctor to check your CRP and WBC levels. Somewhere in those readings lies the spark that can ignite the potentially dangerous flame of heart disease.
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