The key to maintaining a healthy heart is to keep the arteries clean. After all, it is the arteries that supply oxygen rich blood to the heart. There are many factors that could contribute to heart disease, one among which is plaque build-up in the arteries. Heart attack occurs when the flow of oxygen rich blood to the heart is disrupted. But, do not worry, there are several foods that could be incorporated into your daily diet to unclog the arteries and reduce the risk of heart diseases.
Here Are The 10 Super Foods That Help Unclog Arterie
Orange Juice:
Drinking orange juice daily has been found to lower blood pressure and improve blood vessel function. The antioxidants present in orange juice have been found to increase the health of cells that line the blood vessels. The proper functioning and health of these cells in crucial for preventing the formation of clogged arteries.
Nuts:
Nuts like walnuts and almonds are rich in Omega 3 fatty acids, l-arginine, fiber and Vitamin E, all of which are necessary in order to maintain a healthy heart. Vitamin E has been found to prevent plaque build-up in the arteries and l-arginine improves the health of artery walls. Snacking on nuts has also been found to lower LDL cholesterol levels, which in turn reduces the risk of heart attack.
Pomegranate:
Pomegranate can reduce existing plaque that has been formed in the arteries thereby unclogging it. It improves blood flow and regulates the blood pressure, thereby preventing the risk of heart diseases. Pomegranate also prevents LDL oxidization. Oxidized LDL can trigger heart attacks by damaging the cells that line the coronary arteries and by causing inflammation. It also supports the synthesis and action of nitric oxide, which is crucial for maintaining heart health.
Olive Oil:
Organic virgin olive oil has been found to reduce LDL cholesterol levels and increase HDL cholesterol levels thereby preventing plaque build-up in the arteries. This is because olive oil has various fatty acids in the correct proportions which is essential for maintaining a healthy heart.
Turmeric:
Turmeric has been found to reduce LDL cholesterol levels, prevent plaque formation in the arteries, reduce clot formation and reduce oxidization of cholesterol. Turmeric is a powerful antioxidant and also helps prevent inflammation. Curcumin in turmeric has vitamin B6 which is essential for maintaining healthy homocysteine levels. High levels of homocysteine could lead to plaque build-up and also causes damage to the blood vessels.
Coffee:
Having coffee in moderation has been found to improve heart health. According to research, those who have a few cups of coffee every day were found less likely to have calcium deposits in their arteries.
Green Tea:
Green tea improves the health of endothelial cells, dysfunction of which may lead to clogged arteries. Green tea also contains powerful antioxidants called flavonoids that protect the heart and prevent heart attacks.
Cinnamon:
Cinnamon has been found to lower LDL cholesterol levels. High levels of LDL cholesterol may lead to plaque build-up in the arteries, which eventually leads to heart attack. Cinnamon also contains powerful antioxidants and also reduces oxidative stress on the blood vessels.
Coconut Oil:
The medium chain fatty acids (MCFA) present in coconut oil have been found to improve heart health. Regular consumption of coconut oil has also been found to increase HDL cholesterol levels. HDL is the good cholesterol that protects the heart and reduces incidence of heart attacks.
Broccoli:
Broccoli is rich in antioxidants, which are useful in preventing inflammation and oxidative stress. The compound Sulforaphane present in Broccoli has been found to prevent plaque formation in the arteries. Broccoli is also rich in fiber and phytonutrient l-3C which are helpful in lowering cholesterol levels.
