While clogged arteries can only be treated by doctors, there are ways to prevent them such as reducing cholesterol and maintaining a healthy diet and weight. If you want to cleanse your arteries and prevent plaque buildup, eat the ten healthy foods mentioned below.
Blocked arteries and blood clots are the number one cause of mortality in the United States. Apparently, they are caused by the buildup of cholesterol plaques in the arteries, narrowing the inner walls and slowly blocking the blood flow. This condition is known as atherosclerosis which can lead to strokes, heart attacks and other cardiac problems.
Beans
Apart from being a good source of fiber, beans are also great in lowering blood pressure and helping arteries become more elastic. Beans are also known as antioxidants which can be useful in fighting off inflammation that causes various health diseases such as heart disease. They come in different varieties and can be eaten with greens and other vegetables.
Lentils
Like beans, lentils are also very healthy as they are jam-packed with fiber as well as protein. In fact, Dr. Zahradka and Dr. Carla Taylor from the University of Manitoba conducted a study on rats and discovered that adding lentils to one’s diet can prevent the increase in blood pressure that comes with old age.
According to Dr. Zahradka, “These are amazing results, since they provide a non-pharmacological way of treating diseases associated with blood vessel dysfunction. The most notable finding of the latest study was the fact that lentils could alter the physical properties of blood vessels so that they resembled the vessels found in healthy animals.”
Oats
Oats are rich in soluble fiber which helps in lowering bad cholesterol levels. Dr. Florian Radian, a cardiologist in Los Angeles explains why oats are good for cleaning the arteries, “Cholesterol can seep into the inner layer of blood vessels and form plaque over time.” While some people find oats boring, there are many ways to spice them up such as making overnight oats or oatmeal cookies.
Fatty Fish
Sardines, tuna and salmon are just some of the fatty fish that are filled with healthy fats that are good for cleansing arteries. They are also rich in omega-3 fatty acids which help in increasing the good cholesterol while preventing blood clots in the arteries and lowering blood pressure.
Broccoli
Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli have always been known to have abilities that help fight cancer. However, while this vegetable was being examined by researchers, they also discovered its benefits on improving heart conditions. Sulforaphane, a compound found in broccolis aids the body in fighting arterial clogs when a particular kind of protein is activated. Broccolis are also rich in fiber and have anti-inflammatory properties.
Avocado
Fats used to have a bad reputation in heart health but today, researchers consider monosaturated and polyunsaturated fats as healthy fats that can help increase levels of good HDL cholesterol and reduce bad LDL cholesterol.
Asparagus
Filled with minerals and fiber, asparagus helps in preventing blood clots and lowering blood pressure. Asparagus is also rich in Vitamin E, an antioxidant that helps strengthen the immune system. According to Keri Gans, a nutrition consultant in New York, “Our body absorbs vitamin E better if it’s eaten alongside some fat, and when you cook it with olive oil, you’re getting healthy fat and vitamin E.”
Turmeric
Turmeric has been recognized in recent years as a healthy spice which aids in treating various diseases. Curcumin, a substance found in turmeric is an antioxidant that inhibits fatty deposits from accumulating and clogging the heart arteries. If you love curry, you won’t have any problems consuming turmeric. Otherwise, there are many delicious recipes that include turmeric such as turmeric chicken wraps and Ethiopian cabbage dish.
Watermelon
Watermelon is a popular summertime fruit but you can have it any time of the year as it is full of nutrients particularly nitric oxide which relaxes the arteries and reduces inflammation. This tasty and healthy fruit also helps in adjusting blood lipids and reducing belly fat. Apparently, too much fat in the abdomen can increase the risk of heart problems.
Chocolate
Chocolate is not only sumptuous but can also be healthy. Because of the antioxidant properties in flavanols, plant compounds that can be found in cocoa beans, chocolates can be good for your heart. In point of fact, a study published in the Nutrients journal, chocolate can reduce risks of heart disease when eaten in moderation. Nonetheless, opt for dark chocolate with a high percentage of cacao to reap the health benefits of cocoa beans.
(Note: This article is for informational purposes only and not to be treated as an expert opinion. If you’re dealing with any of health issues mentioned in the article, it’s important to always consult with your doctor or a specialist.)