As you age you simply must know how to reverse atherosclerosis using natural methods because if you are an average human you probably have plaque filled arteries by age 40, especially f you live in the U.S.A. The plaque you probably have in your arteries is called atherosclerosis. Since atherosclerosis is the most common form of artery disease and causes heart attack and stroke it is wise to know how to reverse atherosclerosis.
Coronary Artery Disease, also known as C.A.D. or atherosclerosis is a debilitating and often deadly disease characterized by insidious deposits of cholesterol, calcium, fats and cellular waste products that gradually build up in arteries and form a substance called plaque on arterial walls injured by inflammation and inflammatory changes. Plaque is dangerous in several ways.
1) It narrows the arteries, making it harder for blood to supply the heart muscle.
2) The plaque can rupture causing blood clots or break loose from artery walls, both, leading to obstructions that cause heart attacks and strokes.
3) Plaque also causes further inflammation within the blood vessel, narrowing the artery even more. Ideally, we should all follow healthy lifestyles that minimize the likelihood that plaque will begin building up. Yet sometimes our poor diet and exercise habits catch up with us, and for others, heart disease and vulnerability to atherosclerosis simply run in their families.
The most common mainstream medical solution to plaque accumulation is to prescribe cholesterol-lowering drugs such as Crestor and Lipitor. These drugs, called statin drugs, have many downsides, including a number of potentially serious side effects, among them muscle and liver damage. A natural approach to prevent or reverse atherosclerosis plaque entails a number of simple but powerful and effective lifestyle changes.
So what can you do?
Step 1 – Eat healthy, Low fat, Anti-Inflammatory Foods To Reverse Atherosclerosis
A heart-healthy, anti-plaque-and anti-inflammation diet consists of whole, fresh, nutrient-rich foods and a minimum of processed products. Limiting processed foods is vital because they are low in nutrients yet full of unhealthy and inflammation-causing fats, sugars, sodium and additives. When it comes to healthy foods, your list of favorites should include large amounts of these foods:
- Cruciferous vegetables including broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, cabbage and kale, which are abundant sources of disease-fighting antioxidants which will help to reverse atherosclerosis.
- Pomegranates, blueberries, blackberries, strawberries and other colorful fruits help reverse atherosclerosis. These fruits are packed with phytonutrients called flavonoids that possess potent antioxidant properties.
- Fiber-rich foods that not only boost digestive health, but also help the body eliminate cholesterol and balance blood sugar levels. Choose unrefined whole-grain cereals like oats (oatmeal), whole grain breads, whole-wheat pasta, brown rice, oat bran, legumes, nuts or seeds. They’re easy to incorporate into nearly every meal, and a handful of walnuts or almonds makes for a heart-healthy snack.
- Oily, cold-water fish such as wild salmon, trout, mackerel, sardines and herring. These are rich in healthy, inflammation-fighting fats known as omega-3 fatty acids. Eat at least two servings a week. Other good dietary sources of omega-3 fatty acids are flaxseed and walnuts.
Step 2 – Work Up A Sweat – Exercise To Reverse Atherosclerosis
Even if you follow a healthy diet, sitting at the computer all day and watching TV all evening is like signing up for heart disease. Exercise helps reverse atherosclerosis, keeps you healthy by controlling blood lipid and blood sugar abnormalities and improving circulation. It can also help control stress, a well-known contributor to heart disease.
If you are in good health but have been inactive, start with 10 to 15 minutes of aerobic activity (brisk walking, biking, etc.) three times a week. Gradually work your way up to 30 to 45 minutes four to six (ideally seven) times weekly. If you have a pre-existing medical condition, consult your physician before embarking on a new exercise program.
The simple secret to a successful exercise program is to find an activity that you truly find fun, whether it’s dancing, swimming, riding a bike or taking a brisk walk. For greater enjoyment and accountability, schedule regular exercise dates with a friend, neighbor or coworker.
Step 3 – Take Vitamin Supplements To Reverse Atherosclerosis
In addition to diet and exercise, there are effective, well-tolerated products and natural supplements that help dissolve plaque, fight the major cause of atherosclerosis and strengthen arteries. In order to learn more about the real major cause of atherosclerosis, along with the products and supplements that can safely dissolve arterial plaque simply sign up for my free, no obligation eCourse “Reversing Atherosclerosis.”