But the same researchers have warned that vitamin E supplements do not confer the same effect and could actually make women more susceptible to the effects of cholesterol.
Vitamin E occurs naturally in nuts, vegetable oils and a variety of cereals.
Oxidised LDL clogs vessels and can lead to blood clots that cause heart attacks and strokes - both of which can be fatal. The research found that the vitamin E supplements taken by women involved in the study were not effective. However, the pills only contained small amounts of vitamin E, leading the scientists to note that pills containing larger quantities could be beneficial. Food elements that were not found to be useful in reducing the effects of LDL were beta carotene, vitamin C and folic acid. Dr Mosca and her team presented their findings to the American Heart Association Epidemiology and Prevention conference in Orlando, Florida on Friday.