An artherogenic diet is a type of diet capable of starting or speeding up the development of atherosclerosis. Atherosclerois is a condition characterized by the formation of plaque with cholesterol, lipids and calcium in the arterial lumen. Atherogenic diets consist of high fat, high cholesterol foods and can lead to serious health problems over time such as high cholesterol levels and an increased risk of developing heart diseases.
Artherosclerosis
Artherosclerosis, also known as hardening of the arteries, is a condition that typically takes a long time to manifest as clogged artery. The plaque that clogs your arteries is made from fat, cholesterol, calcium and other substances. Artherosclerois causes your arteries to harden and narrow restricting your blood flow. The plaque in the lining of your arteries is also associated with coronary heart disease.
Saturated Fat
According to "Atherosclerosis: Diet and Drugs," atherogenic foods that come from animal sources have high levels of saturated fat. Animal sources of saturated fats include dairy products such as milk, butter and cheese. Additionally, meat from animals such as beef, pork, lamb and chicken also contain saturated fats include coconut oil, cocoa butter, palm oil and kernel oil.
Trans Fat and LDL Cholesterol
Atherogenic foods also contain trans fatty acids and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and hydrogenated fats. You can find trans fats in margarine, certain cooking oils and shortening. You will find partially hydrogenated vegetable oils in most processed foods. Foods that contain low-density lipoprotein cholesterol include animal products such as egg yolks and organ meats.
Processed and Fast Foods
The nutritional content of processed and fast foods typically make these food highly atherogenic. Examples of atherogenic processed foods include white sugar and flour combined and fried to make pastries, chips, cookies and crackers. These products also contain a high concentration of artificial sugars and sodium which can lead to high blood pressure and diabetes. When your body consumes an excess of sugar, your body converts the excess sugar into fats and cholesterol.
References
- "Atherosclerosis: Diet and Drugs"; Arnold von Eckardstein; 2005
- "Atherosclerosis: Molecular and Cellular Mechanisms"; Sarah jane George et al; 2010
- "Human Physiology: The Mechanisms of Body Function"; Arthur Vander et al; 1998
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