10 beneficial foods for maintaining clean arteries
Atherosclerosis, or clogged arteries, is a condition that occurs when fatty deposits accumulate along artery walls. This leads to the narrowing of the arteries and restriction to the blood flood to the heart and other body parts, thus causes coronary heart disease.
The symptoms of clogged arteries depend on the arteries affected.
Carotid arteries: carotid artery disease occurs when the arteries in the brain get clogged. This increases the the risk of stroke. During a stroke, the brain is left without oxygen and brain cells begin to die. Stroke is the leading cause of death and disability in America.
Coronary arteries: CHD or coronary heart disease happens when the arteries in the heart are clogged. When this happens, the heart muscle fails to receive enough blood, which can lead to chest pain, or angina.
Renal arteries: clogged renal arteries in the kidneys can lead to chronic kidney disease which can impair kidney function over time.
Peripheral arteries: Peripheral arterial disease is a result from plaque buildup in the arms, legs, and pelvis.
If you are diagnosed with atherosclerosis, the treatment includes lifestyle changes, medications, procedures or surgeries.
When it comes to prevention and improving the symptoms, changing the lifestyle is a must.
Additionally, what reduces the risks is opting for healthier food options, keeping a healthy weight, limiting the alcohol consumption, stopping smoking cigarettes and other tobacco products, as well as taking medications prescribed by your doctor, such as those for high blood pressure and diabetes.
Further, some foods that help with clogged arteries are:
Curcumin (in Turmeric): Curcumin, found in turmeric, can help lower inflammation in the body and prevent LDL cholesterol from becoming oxidized. As the primary active polyphenol in this vibrant golden spice, curcumin behaves like a targeted molecular strike against the hidden, underlying triggers of cardiovascular disease.
Garlic: People have used garlic as a natural medicine for treating various health conditions for centuries. Its consumption helps lower the high blood pressure and cholesterol levels. At the same time, it can improve C-reactive protein (CRP) and coronary artery calcium (CAC) levels, linked to inflammation and plaque buildup in the arteries. With that, it can help prevent atherosclerosis.
Ginger: Ginger is rich in anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative properties, as well as heart-protective compounds like shogaols and gingerols. These unique bioactive components make this pungent root a heavy hitter when it comes to keeping your blood flowing smoothly and shielding your blood vessels from long-term damage