Although apple juice hasn’t been shown to lower LDL cholesterol levels, it shows promise in reducing LDL oxidation in men. When LDL cholesterol is oxidized, it changes particle size and is more likely to be deposited inside artery walls and promote atherosclerosis, or hardening of your arteries. This in turn decreases blood and nutrient flow to your heart, increasing your risk for heart disease and heart attack.
Antioxidants
The mechanism behind apple juice’s ability to lower LDL oxidation might be due to its antioxidant content, according to a review performed by researchers at Cornell University. Although apple juice contains less antioxidants than whole apples, it still contains a sufficient amount of antioxidants called polyphenols, which have been shown to reduce LDL oxidation in men, according to findings published in the May 2004 issue of “Nutrition Journal.”
LDL Oxidation
Researchers at the University of California at Davis investigated the effects of apple juice consumption on LDL oxidation in healthy men. Subjects received 375 ml of apple juice or 340 g of whole apple daily for six weeks. LDL oxidation levels were measured before and after the treatment. Scientists discovered that those in the apple juice group experienced reductions in LDL oxidation, according to research published in the 2000 issue of the “Journal of Medicinal Food.”
Additional Research
Similar results were also seen in another study published in the 1999 issue of “Life Sciences.” Scientists at the University of California at Davis studied the phenolic composition of apple juices and apple extracts. They discovered that both apple juice and apple extracts were effective in inhibiting LDL oxidation in vitro.
Interactions
Apple juice seems to reduce LDL oxidation, but be aware that apple juice may block the absorption of certain medications in the body. Therefore, consult your health care provider before drinking apple juice, especially if you’re taking medications.
References
- "Nutrition Journal"; Apple Phytochemicals and Their Health Benefits; R.H. Liu et al.; May 2004
- "Journal of Medicinal Food"; Apple Juice Consumption Reduces Plasma Low-Density Lipoprotein Oxidation in Healthy Men and Women; D. Hyson et al.; Winter 2000
- "Life Science"; Apple Juice Inhibits Human Low Density Lipoprotein Oxidation; D.A. Pearson et al.; 1999
