Del Monte 100% Pineapple Juice: Keeping your Heart and your Immune System in top shape

Metabolic diseases, such as dyslipidemia – which refers to elevated cholesterol levels – and their complications continue to exert a significant burden on patients and their families worldwide. In fact, recent data from the World Health Organization lists ischemic heart disease and stroke – both of which are known complications of elevated cholesterol levels– as among the top 2 causes of mortality worldwide.^1,2  

High levels of cholesterol in the blood lead to its deposition in the blood vessels – a process known as atherosclerosis – which leads to a myriad of complications and can often result to debilitating or fatal complications when left unaddressed, such as stroke and heart attack. Fortunately, cholesterol levels are among the modifiable risk factors for these diseases.³ As such, lowering cholesterol levels is important in decreasing the risks of these complications.  

Although advancements in the management of high cholesterol levels and prevention of cardiovascular disease have progressed significantly over the past few years, lifestyle intervention remains among the first-line management in such cases.^3,4 Understandably, there is now renewed interest in keeping a healthy lifestyle thru natural solutions. Likewise, functional foods – or those that offer health benefits beyond their nutritional value have become an essential component in keeping a healthy lifestyle. Among such functional foods are those containing phytosterols and phytostanols.    

Lifestyle, Nutrition, and Cardiovascular Risk  
The relationship between nutrition and cardiovascular risk (the likelihood of developing heart attack, stroke, and other related diseases) has been well documented. It is widely known that a diet rich in bad cholesterol leads to an increased risk of such diseases. However, studies have also shown that certain foods may in fact decrease cardiovascular risk by lowering levels of bad cholesterol, such as low-density lipoprotein (LDL).⁵  

Phytosterols compete with cholesterol for absorption in the gut, and as such, lower blood levels of cholesterol.⁴ Food-containing phytosterols have been shown to be effective in lowering levels of LDL-C – commonly known as “bad” cholesterol – by an average of 12%.⁵ Ultimately, this translates to lower cardiovascular risk (lower chances of heart attack or stroke).  

In the latest guidelines from the European Society of Cardiology, lifestyle modification remains the initial non-pharmacologic strategy both for decreasing cholesterol levels and decreasing cardiovascular risk.^3,4 When it comes to lifestyle changes, aside from regular exercise, dietary modifications may also be employed to lower risks. Specifically, they recommend adding foods enriched with phytosterols to the diet.⁴ Furthermore, based on LDL-C lowering function and the absence of adverse effects, functional foods with plant sterols/stanols may be considered particularly for individuals with high cholesterol levels in conjunction to their respective pharmacotherapy.⁴              

Reducol^®: Formulated for Optimal Cardiovascular Health  
Reducol^® is a unique blend of phytosterols and phytostanols that is generally recognized as safe. Reducol^® is found in Del Monte Heart Smart 100% Pineapple Juice Drink which is specially formulated to compete with the absorption of dietary cholesterol in the gut, resulting to lower levels of “bad” cholesterol in the bloodstream, thereby helping in decreasing cardiovascular risk and keeping the heart and blood vessels healthy.⁶  

Studies have shown that consumption of food containing phytosterols at 2 grams per day significantly lowers LDL levels in the blood.^3,5 A serving of Del Monte Heart Smart 100% Pineapple Juice Drink supplies 1 gram of plant sterols.⁶ Based on a clinical study, drinking two servings of Del Monte Heart Smart 100% Pineapple Juice Drink with Reducol^® every day for 8 weeks may help lower cholesterol.⁷  

Also, Del Monte pineapple juice is unsweetened, which makes it a healthier alternative and is in line with healthy diet characteristics described in the latest guidelines set by the European Society of Cardiology on cardiovascular disease prevention.³ This is an important feature since most patients who suffer from high cholesterol levels often have elevated blood sugar levels which also independently contribute to cardiovascular risks.    

Stronger Immunity and Healthier Cells with Del Monte Pineapple Juice  
Aside from the protection against cardiovascular diseases conferred by Reducol^®, Del Monte Heart Smart 100% Pineapple Juice also contains a high level of Vitamin C, which is enough to supply 100% of the daily recommended intake.⁶ Vitamin C plays an important role to support the immune system offering protection from infections. It is a powerful antioxidant that can neutralize harmful free radicals. It also contributes to the normal function of the nervous system, and contributes to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue.  

Del Monte Heart Smart 100% Pineapple Juice is also a source of Magnesium with one serving supplying 8% of the recommended daily intake.⁶ Magnesium contributes to the protection of cells from oxidative stress.  

Adding to its nutritional value, Del Monte Heart Smart 100% Pineapple Juice also contains Iron, Calcium, and Zinc, all of which contribute to maintaining normal body functions.⁶    

Living Healthier the Natural Way  
Del Monte Heart Smart 100% Pineapple Juice is prepared from the juice of whole freshly-picked and ripe pineapples that is pasteurized to maintain its essential quality and nutritional characteristics.⁶                    

Conclusion  
Elevated cholesterol levels pose a real threat to our general well-being. Unfortunately, dietary intake of unhealthy amounts of cholesterol-rich foods may quickly lead to elevation of cholesterol levels in the blood, and when left unchecked, may result in the development of complications that can prove to be debilitating and economically costly in the long run. This highlights the importance and practicality of a proactive approach to the primary prevention of such diseases. As such, it is important to take charge of our health and our family’s well-being by promoting a more active lifestyle and healthier eating habits. And when it comes to a healthy diet, it is important to remember that although moderation is key, being aware and placing a premium on the quality of our food and beverages is equally as important. Choosing healthier alternatives in the form of functional foods will surely be beneficial.