Arteriosclerosis is a broader term for the condition in which the arteries narrow and harden, leading to poor circulation of blood throughout the body.
Atherosclerosis is a specific kind of arteriosclerosis, but these terms are often used interchangeably. Both conditions lead to decreased blood flow to other parts of the body.
Atherosclerosis occurs when fatty deposits accumulate along artery walls. You may have heard the condition referred to as clogged arteries or a hardening of the arteries.
This causes the arteries to narrow and restricts blood flow to the heart and other parts of the body.
Causes:
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- Too much sugars or diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Cigarette smoking
- Lack of exercises
Symptoms:
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- Chest pain
- Weakness
- Vision problems
- Speech problems
- Headache
- Pain in legs or feet especially when waking up
- Difficulty walking
Foods that can help
Avocados: results in improved blood cholesterol (lower LDL and higher HDL). HDL cholesterol is the cholesterol that helps keep arteries clear of obstructions. Note: the body also uses cholesterol to patch up bleeds so you don’t bleed to death.
Asparagus: Asparagus clean the arteries. It can help to lower blood pressure and prevent blood clots that can cause cardiovascular illnesses. Its full of fiber and minerals, along with a long list of vitamins including K, B1, B2, C and E.
Beets: Beets are rich in nitrate, which is converted to nitric oxide, a vasodilator that helps widen blood vessels and increases blood flow. In one study, researchers found that beet juice decreases systolic blood pressure, which is the first number of a blood pressure reading.
Berries: Berries are rich in a polyphenol called anthocyanin, which is an antioxidant responsible for berries red and purple hues. Anthocyanin protects artery walls and keep blood vessels flexible. They also stimulate the release of nitric oxide to lower blood pressure.
Broccoli: Broccoli is rich in Vitamin K, which helps to keep calcium from damaging the arteries. It’s also full of fiber, which can help to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
Cayenne red pepper: an orange-red spice that can help boost blood flow. It has a compound called capsaicin in the red pepper helps relax muscles that line blood vessels. This, in turn, allows for blood to flow more easily and it decreases blood pressure.
Chocolate: rich in a compound bioflavonoid called anthocyanin, which is an antioxidant responsible for berries red and purple hues. Anthocyanin protects artery walls and keep blood vessels flexible. They also stimulate the release of nitric oxide to lower blood pressure.
Cinnamon: can help to reduce cholesterol levels and clear out plaque and prevent further build-up. Cinnamon is full of antioxidants which improve cardiovascular health by protecting blood from oxidation. The best kind to use is the Sri Lanka.
Cranberries: Cranberries are another antioxidant-rich food that can reduce LDL and raise HDL cholesterol levels. Regular consumption of pure cranberry juice may help reduce your overall risk of heart disease by as much as 40%!
Garlic: Garlic is rich in a compound called allicin, which helps blood vessels relax and thus improvs blood flow through the heart. This reduces the workload on the heart. Blood pressure is decreased when your heart doesn’t have to work as hard to pump blood.
Ginger: ginger aids digestion and helps relieve nausea, and benefits circulation, too. Ginger acts as a vasodilator, meaning it widens blood vessels and can reduce blood pressure. Ginger is an ingredient in Asian and Indian cuisine.
Grapes: Deep purple grapes are rich in antioxidants that boost blood flow by relaxing blood vessel walls and helping blood vessels work better. Compounds in grapes decrease inflammation and make blood less sticky, so you’re less likely to suffer from blood clots.
Persimmon: Persimmons are loaded with antioxidants and polyphenols, which decrease LDL and triglycerides. They’re also a great source of fiber, which helps to regulate blood pressure and keep your arteries clear.
Pomegranate: This fun fruit contains phytochemicals that act as antioxidants to protect the lining of the arteries against damage. Pomegranate juice stimulates the production of nitric oxide, which helps to keep your blood flowing and your arteries open!
Spinach: is rich in the nitrates that get converted to nitric oxide, which makes blood vessels wider so blood can flow through more easily. Results of one study found that eating spinach makes arteries flexible and decreases blood pressure.
Turmeric: This spice is a powerful anti-inflammatory. In fact, it’s a powerful aunty, we just can’t find uncle – ha ha. It lowers inflammation, which is a major cause of arteriosclerosis — the hardening of the arteries. Adding turmeric to your diet can reduce damage to arterial walls, lowering your chances of a blood clot.
Green tea: Green tea contains high levels of catechins, which hinder the absorption of cholesterol during digestion. Drinking a cup or two each day can help to improve your blood-lipid levels and reduce arterial blockage. Green tea also gives your metabolism a natural boost, which can aid in weight loss and support cardiovascular health.
Submitted by
Dr Holly
One Stop Mobile Health Shop
Choices Unlimited for Health & Wellness
Dr. Holly Fourchalk, Ph.D., DNM®, RHT, MH, AAP, HT
604.764.5203
holly@ChoicesUnlimited.ca
www.choicesunlimited.ca
