A recent Nutrients journal study assesses the possible interplay between inflammation, carbohydrate intake, and the development of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) development. Study: The Impact of Dietary Carbohydrates on Inflammation-Related Cardiovascular Disease Risk: The ATTICA Study (2002–2022) . Image Credit: Tatjana Baibakova / Shutterstock.
com The role of carbohydrates, a major source of dietary energy, in the manifestation of cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains unclear. Chronic inflammation influences the development of atherosclerosis , which is often associated with elevated levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6), C-reactive protein (CRP), and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α). These are inflammatory markers also associated with metabolic syndrome and insulin resistance.
CRP is a key predictor of cardiovascular events and systemic inflammation. Similarly, IL-6 and TNF-α have been associated with multiple health outcomes, including cancer and neurodegeneration. Although the role of carbohydrates in insulin secretion and fat storage is well-documented, a direct link to inflammatory effects has not been established.
Some studies have reported that a low-carbohydrate diet is associated with greater reductions in inflammatory marker levels compared to low-fat diets. The type of carbohydrate is important. For example, fiber-rich and low-glycemic index foods can promote satiety, improve digestion, and regulate blood glucose levels.
Conversely, consuming more re.