Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains the leading cause of death worldwide. Prevention of CAD by targeting modifiable factors remains a key public health priority. L-Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C - Vit. C) and Omega 3 fatty acids, Eicosapentaenoic / Docosahexaenoic Acid (EPO/DHA), powerful but also necessary antioxidants for the human body, after observational studies as well as randomized studies seem to have a beneficial effect in the direction of the prevention of CVD with pleiotropic mechanisms. Lignin, a polymer of plant origin that is considered a dietary fiber, has a developed porous structure and can retain exogenous and endogenous toxins, and pathogenic microorganisms. Lactulose considered a prebiotic provides a selective substrate for the metabolism of saccharolytic bacteria with bifidogenic activity and multiple benefits to the host's gut health. Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) is an established surgical intervention and treatment of symptoms of myocardial ischemia that improves patient survival Optimal Medical Therapy (OMT) after coronary arterial bypass grafting (CABG) as described in current clinical practice could be made even better by the addition of these beneficial food supplements.
A randomized controlled trial is proposed in an intervention group of 54 post-CABG patients who will be given daily orally in addition to the usual medication, 1000 mg Vitamin C, 840 mg EPO/DHA, 2130 mg Lignin \& 720 mg Lactulose and a control group of 54 patients (Control Group) in which only usual medication will be administered. The intervention will take place from the 15th postoperative day when CAGB patients are discharged and lasts for 2.5 months (10 weeks) postoperatively. The data will be collected on the 15th, 80-90th postop day in 6 months and 12 months postop and then the statistical analysis of the data will be performed. Considering the number of CABG surgeries performed electively in our clinic, this study is expected to be completed in approximately 2-3 years from the day of initiation.
The expected knowledge through the expected results such as these will emerge from this study is the potentially beneficial effect of our food supplements administration (intervention), i.e. Vitamin C, EPO/DHA, Lignin \& Lactulose, on the postoperative course of our patients. Some degree of improvement in the well-being and clinical picture of our patients postoperatively is expected, which will be thoroughly investigated in each phase of the study.