Compare and contrast two individuals, one whose diet consists largely of meats containing high levels of cholesterol and the other whose diet is rich in plant sterols. Are their risks of cardiovascular disease likely to be similar or different? Explain your reasoning.

Short Answer

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The individual who largely eats meats high in cholesterol would likely be at a greater risk of cardiovascular disease than the individual whose diet is rich in plant sterols, because cholesterol contributes to the build-up of atherosclerosis, increasing the risk for heart disease, whereas plant sterols can lower cholesterol levels, reducing such risk.

Step by step solution

01

Understanding of Diet Components

Cholesterol is a waxy substance that your body needs to build cells. But when you get too much of it, it can have a negative impact on your health. On the other hand, plant sterols, also known as phytosterols, are plant-derived compounds that are structurally similar to cholesterol and can help to lower cholesterol levels.
02

Discussing the Impact of High Cholesterol Diet

A diet high in meats containing high levels of cholesterol may increase the levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL), also known as 'bad cholesterol', in the body. Too much LDL cholesterol circulating in the blood can slowly build up in the inner walls of the arteries that feed the heart and brain, causing plaque. Plaque can narrow the arteries and make them less flexible - a condition known as atherosclerosis. If a clot forms and blocks a narrowed artery, a heart attack or stroke can occur.
03

Discussing the Impact of Plant Sterols Rich Diet

A diet rich in plant sterols can help reduce cholesterol levels. Plant sterols work by blocking the absorption of cholesterol from the diet and the re-absorption of cholesterol produced by the liver in the intestine. This leads to lower levels of LDL cholesterol in the blood, which reduces the risk of atherosclerosis and its consequent risks.
04

Comparing Risks of Cardiovascular Diseases

Given that high cholesterol and particularly high levels of 'bad cholesterol' contribute to the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases while plant sterols help to reduce the levels of this cholesterol, we can say that someone who eats a plant sterols rich diet, all other things being equal, is at lesser risk than someone whose diet largely consists of meats containing high levels of cholesterol.

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