Atherosclerosis causes the majority of heart attacks, hypertension or other cardiovascular disorders in North America. The main factor which leads to atherosclerosis or atherogenesis (formation of plaque) is the process of LDL accumulation in the sub endothelial space and LDL oxidation. Free radicals, which are produced during oxidation, are extremely detrimental and will cause excessive immune response which is the first step to atherogenesis. As plaque thickens on the arterial walls and hardens, it may rupture the blood vessel or cause thrombi (blood clots). To prevent and avoid these events from occurring, my objective in this study is to determine possible antioxidants which neutralize the harmful oxidants prior to the LDL oxidation process. In addition, I will prove that the amount and the variety of high antioxidant capacity foods or supplements are significant in benefiting atherosclerosis patients when taken regularly over a long period of time. To prove my hypothesis, I will use 36 reference websites including five experiments from years 1996-2009. My data will include the symptoms, process and causes of atherosclerosis, the advantages and disadvantages of oxidation, ways of preventing excess free radicals, an ORAC antioxidant list, and five experiments involving human and animal subjects with cardiovascular diseases being treated with antioxidants. Lastly, I will conclude by saying that atheroma formation retards when patients are treated with the combination of different supplements or foods. Eating fruits and vegetables which are naturally rich in antioxidants may be a more efficient way of improving vascular health than taking multi supplements.

Back to: Virtual Science Fair - Expo-sciences virtuelle                             Creator: Janine Hsu