The arteries are part of the body’s circulatory system and play a large role in one’s health. They are responsible for the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to all cells, the removal of carbon dioxide and waste products, the maintenance of optimum blood pH, and responsible for the circulation of proteins and cells of the immune system.
It’s very important to keep the arteries clean and unclogged to prevent any possible cardiovascular diseases, and thankfully there are healthy, natural foods that can help us!
Here Are 10 Foods That Unclog Arteries Naturally
1. Onions
When we think of heart healthy food, onions aren’t usually the first thing to come to mind. However, a study concluded that the quercetin found in onions can significantly reduce high blood pressure in hypertensive adults. Dr. Jonathan Stegall explains that, “Onions are involved in maintaining good blood pressure, inhibit hardening of the arteries, and keep the arteries elastic.”
2. Apples
An apple a day has its benefits when it comes to helping unclog arteries naturally. Researchers at Ohio State University discovered that apples can help prevent plaque buildup within arteries. They reported that eating one apple daily for four weeks can reduce unhealthy cholesterol by as much as 40%. The polyphenols found in apples prevent low-density lipoprotein (LDL) from oxidizing. Toxins that oxidize in the blood vessels harden the arteries.
3. Fish
Certain fish, such as mackerel, salmon, sardines, and tuna, are wonderful sources of omega-3 fatty acids that can unclog arteries. They reduce inflammation in the blood vessels, reduce high blood pressure and can prevent blood clots. The American Heart Association (AHA) suggests eating baked or grilled meaty fish at least twice a week to lessen plaque buildup in the arteries.
4. Avocado
Avocados are one of the foods that unclog arteries naturally. Studies show that daily consumption of avocado results in improved blood cholesterol (lower LDL and higher HDL). In just 7 days of eating avocado daily, participants saw an average 22% reduction in unhealthy cholesterol (LDL). The consumption of avocado increased HDL cholesterol by 11%, and HDL helps keep arteries clear of obstructions.
An average serving of avocado also contains a healthy amount of fiber, protein, and vitamins that can benefit the heart.
This Is What Happens To Your Body When You Eat Avocado Every Day
5. Broccoli
Broccoli can help prevent artery clogging as it’s packed with vitamin K, which prevents calcium from damaging the arteries. Broccoli also prevents cholesterol oxidation, and contains sulforaphane, which helps the body use protein to prevent plaque build-up in the arteries. Broccoli is full of fiber, which lowers blood pressure, and reduces the stress that can lead to tearing and plaque build-up of arterial walls.
6. Turmeric
Turmeric is a powerful anti-inflammatory. Curcumin, the main ingredient in turmeric, is a naturally occurring antioxidant known as a polyphenol. It works by lowering inflammation, which is a major cause of arteriosclerosis — the hardening of the arteries.
Researchers in France fed 20 mice a diet supplemented with curcumin or a comparison diet not supplemented with curcumin. After 16 weeks, mice fed on the curcumin-based diet had a 26% reduction in fatty deposits in their arteries compared to mice on the comparison diet. Consider adding turmeric to your diet as it also has many benefits that expand beyond cardiovascular health.
7. Nuts
Heart healthy nuts are rich in alpha-linoleic acid (ALA), vitamin E, monounsaturated fats, protein, and fiber. Walnuts especially have been shown to potentially drop the chances of cardiovascular-related death by up to 50% when consumed once per week.
Nuts can also reduce blood vessel inflammation, which naturally protects the arteries.
8. Spinach
Spinach is another great food that helps unclog arteries naturally. Eating spinach once daily can reduce homocysteine levels in the body, which have been linked to the heart disease atherosclerosis. Spinach has a large amount of the antioxidant beta carotene, and eating a diet rich in antioxidant-containing foods has been linked to a reduced risk of cardiovascular (heart and blood vessels) disease. Consider adding some healthy spinach to your salads, sandwiches and smoothies.
9. Watermelon
Watermelon has a high amount of the amino acid L-citrulline which helps unclog arteries. Studies suggest that short-term L-citrulline supplementation may functionally improve arterial stiffness. Watermelon is also a natural source of nitric oxide, which the heart needs for lowered blood pressure.
10. Asparagus
Asparagus is loaded with vitamins B1, B2, C, E, K, fiber, and minerals, all of which contribute to a healthy cardiovascular system and help to unclog arteries. Asparagus boosts the production of glutathione which helps prevent toxic substances from oxidizing in the arteries. Asparagus also contains alpha-linoleic acid and folic acid, which help to reduce the hardening of blood vessels. Last but not least, this superfood also can help lower blood pressure.
A Healthy Start
If you’re looking to improve the health of your arteries, remember to eat the right kinds of organic, whole foods, rather than relying on supplements. Try to reduce the amount of sugars and fats in your diet, two of the main culprits of unhealthy cholesterol, and try to increase the amount of fruits and vegetables. Keep your health professional involved and seek their advice. Integrate a healthy exercise regimen as well, and drink plenty of water. Removing plaque build-up can take some time, but it’s always worth it.
Have any of these healthy foods worked for you?
Let us know in the comments.
Have a beautifully healthy day.
You are loved.
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