A: For years we have been hearing that diets high in cholesterol and saturated fat lead to cardiovascular diseases. It seems logical. Consider the pieces of the puzzle. First, cardiovascular diseases are virtually epidemic in the United States. Second, American diets are high in saturated fats and cholesterol. Third, arterial plaques are made mostly of these substances. It makes sense that if we consume in excess the substances that clog up the arteries we’ll likely suffer the consequences.

The French, however, also consume copious amounts of saturated fat and cholesterol. They may even consume more than Americans! Yet the French population has a significantly lower incidence of cardiovascular disease. This is called the French paradox. They participate in the cause but have immunity to the effect!

How is this possible? The French have inadvertently discovered another piece to the cardiovascular disease puzzle. The French diet is rich in antioxidants that specifically protect cholesterol as it circulates in the bloodstream. Arterial plaque is made of fat and cholesterol that have become damaged by oxidation. Thus, if cholesterol and fat are protected from oxidation as they circulate in the blood they won’t end up as plaque.

In the French diet red wine is cited as the protective factor. The pigment in the grapes has been shown to prevent cholesterol oxidation. This pigment is also found in red beets, blueberries, bilberries, and red cabbage. The French Paradox is not so confusing upon closer inspection. Once we understand it, we can benefit, as they do, by adding these special fruits and vegetables to our daily diets.