Belinal® Reduces Atherosklerotic Plaque Formation
Cardiovascular diseases remain the leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. A major underlying contributor is atherosclerosis, a chronic inflammatory disorder that affects the arterial wall. This condition is marked by the accumulation of macrophages and oxidized low‑density lipoproteins (LDL) within the subendothelial space, promoting plaque development and progressive arterial narrowing. Atherosclerosis typically advances silently over many years without noticeable symptoms, eventually manifesting as severe clinical events such as myocardial infarction, stroke, or peripheral artery disease.
Belinal® is a natural product derived from the branch of silver fir (Abies alba), which has been shown to have potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Belinal® acts on multiple mechanisms to prevent or reverse the functional and morphological changes in the arteries induced by atherosclerosis.
Diagram: The area of atherosclerotic plaques as the percent of the total area
In a recent animal study, we observed that Belinal® significantly reduced the atherosclerotic plaque formation by 80% in the aortas of rabbits fed with an atherogenic diet for 8 weeks. Moreover, Belinal® improved the relaxation response of the aortas by 37%, indicating a better endothelial function and vascular health. These results demonstrate that Belinal® effectively prevents the morphological and functional alterations of the arterial wall caused by atherosclerosis, and thus offers a promising natural solution for the protection of the arteries and the prevention of cardiovascular diseases.
Belinal® can help prevent and treat atherosclerosis, a condition that causes plaque buildup and narrowing of the arteries, leading to increased risk of heart disease and stroke. By taking Belinal® regularly, you can support your cardiovascular health and reduce the damage caused by oxidative stress and inflammation. Belinal® is a safe and effective way to improve your quality of life and well-being.
Mechanisms of Action
- Inhibition of the formation of AGEs (Advanced glycation end products) AGEs are harmful compounds that are formed when protein or fat combine with sugar in the bloodstream. This process is called glycation.
- Vasorelaxation of smooth muscle cells through prostacyclin release mechanisms (PGI2) and/or through endothelium derived hyperpolarizing factor EDHF.
- Anti-inflammatory activity (inhibition of COX-2 activity, suppression of expression of proinflammatory cytokines: tumour necrosis factor α (TNF-α), interleukin IL-6, IL-1β, suppression of COX-1 activity, inhibition of histamine release.
- Inhibition effects on LDL oxidation: the prevention of lipoprotein oxidation, which reduces the formation and uptake of oxidized LDL by macrophages and the subsequent plaque development.
Suggested Dose of Belinal® in Your Formula
80 -120 mg Dose
References
- Kreft S., Štrukelj B. Vasodilatation of human brain arteries and anti-inflammatory activity of the silver fir branch exract. Study report to be published soon.
- Drevenšek G, Lunder M, Tavčar Benkovič E, Mikelj A, Štrukelj B, Kreft S. Silver fir (Abies alba) trunk extract protects Guinea pig arteries from impaired functional responses and morphology due to an atherogenic diet. Phytomedicine. 2015; 22(9).
- Drevenšek G, Lunder M, Tavčar Benković E, Štrukelj B, Kreft S. Cardioprotective effects of silver fir (Abies alba) extract in ischemic-reperfused isolated rat hearts. Food Nutr Res. 2016; 60(1).
- Strukelj B., Molek P. Expert opinion and mechanisms of Belinal® on vascular plaques and LDL cholesterol inhibition. Scientific expert opinion 2023.
- Fukumitsu, Aida K., Shimizu H., Toyoda K. Flaxseed lignan lowers blood cholesterol and decreases liver disease risk factors in moderately hypercholesterolemic men. Nutrition Research 2010; Jul 30 (7):441-446.