Fish compound can fight against heart disease

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Written By: Editorial Team | Published : January 13, 2015 1:13 PM IST

London, Jan 13 A peptide originally found in fish could be used in the battle against cardiovascular disease, research has found. The peptide Urotensin II (UII) was first isolated from teleost fish, a class of ray-finned fishes. UII can modulate a vast array of biologic activities encompassing the cardiovascular system, kidneys and central nervous system, the findings showed. (Read: 10 simple tips to prevent heart disease)

'We have been working on this exciting peptide for a number of years; it exhibits a very interesting pharmacological profile. Design and evaluation of small molecule drugs has potential for use in the treatment of several cardiovascular diseases,' said professor David Lambert from the University of Leicester in Britain. Interestingly, the peptide can constrict some blood vessels yet dilate others, the researchers noted. The study appeared in the journal Pharmacological Reviews. (Read: Expert tips to prevent heart disease)

Here are some health benefits of fish

Here are some foods to prevent heart disease

Walnuts

Eating a handful of walnuts tastes great, and is a heart-healthy addition to your diet. More than a decade of scientific evidence shows that incorporating walnuts in a healthy diet reduces the risk of all major diseases like cardiovascular, high blood pressure, diabetes, cancer, asthma and arthritis. They are a good source of omega-3 fatty acids. It can raise good cholesterol (HDL) to help unclog veins and arteries. Omega-3 fatty acid intake helps protect against stroke caused by plaque build-up and blood clots in the arteries that lead to the brain.

Lemon

Vitamin C is a very powerful antioxidant that helps lower cholesterol and thereby keeps the heart healthy. It helps the utilisation of fat, thereby preventing cholesterol from clogging your arteries. Lemon juice helps in keeping the blood pressure low, reducing your risk of cardiovascular diseases. It is worth squeezing a lemon to make a fresh-fruit drink because lemon ranks high as a health food and contain very few calories. Read more about 5 natural foods to prevent heart disease

With inputs from IANS

Photo source: Getty images


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