Does drinking water lower cholesterol
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The Impact of Drinking Water on Cholesterol Levels
Introduction: Drinking Water and Cholesterol
The relationship between drinking water and cholesterol levels has been a subject of interest in recent research. Various studies have explored how different types of water, including deep seawater, mineral water, and hydrogen-rich water, can influence cholesterol levels and overall cardiovascular health.
Deep Seawater and Cholesterol Reduction
Deep Seawater (DSW) and Lipid Profiles
Research has shown that drinking deep seawater (DSW) can significantly reduce serum total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) in hypercholesterolemic subjects. In a study involving 42 volunteers, those who consumed DSW with high magnesium content experienced a progressive decrease in total cholesterol and LDL-C over six weeks. This reduction was more pronounced compared to groups consuming reverse osmosis water or magnesium-chloride fortified water.
Cardiovascular Benefits in Animal Models
Further studies on hamsters fed a high-fat/cholesterol diet demonstrated that DSW consumption led to decreased serum total cholesterol, triacylglycerol levels, and atherogenic index. Additionally, DSW increased antioxidant capacity and upregulated genes related to cholesterol metabolism, indicating its potential in mitigating diet-induced cardiovascular disorders.
Mineral Water and Cardiometabolic Health
Sodium-Bicarbonated Mineral Water
Several studies have investigated the effects of sodium-bicarbonated mineral water on lipid profiles. In a randomized controlled trial, moderately hypercholesterolemic adults who consumed sodium-bicarbonated mineral water showed significant reductions in total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and glucose levels. This intervention also led to a decrease in oxidized LDL and an increase in urinary pH, suggesting an overall improvement in cardiometabolic risk biomarkers .
Calcium and Magnesium-Rich Mineral Water
Another study compared the effects of mineral water rich in calcium, magnesium, bicarbonate, and sulfate with normal mineral water. Both types of water significantly decreased cholesterol and LDL levels in dyslipidemic adults after one month, although no significant differences were observed between the two groups.
Hydrogen-Rich Water and Lipid Metabolism
Hydrogen-rich water has also been found to have beneficial effects on lipid metabolism. In a study involving patients with potential metabolic syndrome, consumption of hydrogen-rich water for ten weeks resulted in decreased serum total cholesterol and LDL-C levels. Additionally, it improved high-density lipoprotein (HDL) functionality and reduced oxidative stress, highlighting its potential role in preventing metabolic syndrome.
Chlorinated Water and Cholesterol Levels
Contrary to the positive effects observed with other types of water, studies on chlorinated drinking water have shown mixed results. While some animal studies suggested that chlorine in drinking water might raise cholesterol levels, a controlled human study found no significant impact on lipid metabolism parameters after four weeks of consuming chlorinated water .
Conclusion: Drinking Water as a Cholesterol-Lowering Strategy
Overall, the evidence suggests that certain types of drinking water, particularly those rich in minerals like magnesium, calcium, and bicarbonate, as well as hydrogen-rich water, can effectively lower cholesterol levels and improve cardiovascular health. These findings support the potential of incorporating specific types of water into dietary interventions aimed at reducing cholesterol and mitigating cardiovascular risk.
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