The Alpro Foundation presented Viviana De Vergori (pictured), from the University of Milan with the award for her dissertation on the effect of fibers and vegetal proteins on LDL-cholesterol.
Her thesis was selected out of six European nominations that had already won national prizes in their own countries.
De Vergori work found that people suffering from elevated LDL-cholesterol levels, often referred to as ‘bad’ cholesterol, may benefit from a modified diet. Her findings confirmed that a combination of vegetal proteins and soluble fibers led to reductions in LDL-cholesterol levels.
“The work done by young students like Viviana allows us to continuously innovate and develop. Nutritional research in particular deserves the necessary attention considering the impact on our health,” said Professor Delzenne from the Alpro Foundation Board, and chair of the awards jury.
“We are proud of Viviana; she has chosen a very current topic and her results could eventually lead to new innovations,” added Delzenne.
HDL risk
High blood cholesterol levels (known as hypercholesterolemia) is strongly associated with cardiovascular disease (CVD), due to an increased risk of atherosclerotic plaque formation – which can lead to an increased risk of myocardial infarction (heart attack), stroke, and vascular disease.
High blood levels of ‘bad’ LDL cholesterol are known to contribute to this process of plaque formation.
“Research into cholesterol and the role of nutrition is crucial. Scientific research shows that a balanced nutrition can have a positive influence on our health. With the Alpro Foundation Award, our organisation encourages food research on an international level” said Professor Delzenne of the Alpro Foundation Board.
A number of dietary ingredients have been suggested to reduce the levels of LDL cholesterol, thus reducing the risk of plaque formation and subsequent CVD.