Which dietary factor is linked to progression of atherosclerosis?

• A. Unhealthy fats
• B. Fiber
• C. Vitamins C
• D. Water

Answer: (A)

Dietary fats influence blood lipid levels and vascular inflammation that drive the progression of atherosclerosis. Saturated fats and trans fats raise LDL cholesterol, increasing the amount of cholesterol carried into arterial walls. In the vessel wall, LDL becomes oxidized and taken up by macrophages, forming foam cells and fatty streaks that evolve into fibrous plaques. This buildup narrows arteries and makes plaques more prone to rupture, promoting further progression and cardiovascular events. By contrast, dietary fiber tends to lower LDL cholesterol and is protective, while vitamins like C or water do not have a direct, consistent impact on plaque progression. So the dietary factor most strongly linked to progression is the intake of unhealthy fats.