A group of researchers from the Monterrey Institute of Technology and Higher Education (ITESM) found in avocado seed an alternative of cancer-producing preservatives, and of anticoagulants used for cardiovascular diseases.
The research coordinated by scientist Carmen Hernández Brenes, says that avocado seed has molecules called acetogenins which can replace drugs to prevent cardiovascular diseases such as aspirin and food preservatives.
According to Hernández Brenes, acetogenins have an anticoagulant effect, this prevents the formation of blockages in the bloodstream, to reduce embolisms and heart attacks, Hernández said in an interview with CONECTA.
This effect is similar to drugs such as aspirin; but as it is natural treatment, it would not have secondary effects, said the researcher.
From this project that born more than a decade ago, Avocardio and Avosafe were developed. Avocardio can be used as an ingredient in foods or supplements as a natural alternative to the prevention of cardiovascular diseases. Avosafe is a type of natural conservative, which, according to the research, is more effective and safe.
Although Avocardio does not completely eliminate cardiovascular diseases, it can be used for prevention, said Dr. Dariana Rodríguez, a member of the research team.
The product can be consumed especially by people who are at high risk of developing a heart disease, as well as people who have suffered a stroke or a heart attack and should be treated for life, Rodríguez said.
Used as natural preservatives, acetogenins can replace those that contain nitrite, which are associated with cancer development.
At present, the work developed by the team of scientists is in the testing stage; however, it could soon be consumed by humans. For this, in a first phase, the molecules will be added to various foods.
“The advantage is that we are already consuming the molecules, they are in the seed, but they are also in the pulp, so in some way the human already has some exposure,” said Hernández Brenes.
Source: Notimex
