Heart disease is still the leading cause of death in America. So you may wonder, how do we counter clogged arteries? Not surprising, you can turn to food to help unclog arteries.
While there are juices, smoothies, and many detox drinks out there to help flush out your system and get things running smoothly, nature has also provided us with foods that have the same powers, naturally
These 10 foods can help unclog arteries and protect your heart!
1. Avocados
Instead of mayo on your burger or sandwich, switch it out for some avocado. Studies have shown that daily consumption of avocados results in improved blood cholesterol ratios (lower LDL and higher HDL). HDL cholesterol is the cholesterol that helps keep arteries clear of obstructions.
2. Asparagus
Asparagus is a natural artery-clearing food. It can help to lower blood pressure and prevent blood clots that can cause cardiovascular illnesses. This veggie is full of fiber and minerals, along with a long list of vitamins including K, B1, B2, C and E. Like avocados, asparagus also protects against high cholesterol.
3. Pomegranate
This fun fruit contains phytochemicals that act as antioxidants to protect the lining of the arteries against damage. Pomegranate juice stimulates the body’s production of nitric oxide, which helps to keep your blood flowing and your arteries open!
Ruby red, delicious and nutrient rich pomegranates pack a mighty punch in safeguarding your health. Pomegranate contains a unique and powerful antioxidant called punicalagin, the most abundant antioxidant in pomegranate, responsible for more than half of the antioxidant activity of pomegranate juice.
Pomegranate juice has been analyzed to have greater antioxidant capacity than red wine, grape juice, cranberry juice, green tea or acai juice. Drinking pomegranate juice measurably reduces oxidative stress (the toxic effects of free radicals) in healthy humans. Much research has shown that pomegranate’s potent antioxidant capacity provides protection against heart disease, cancer and cognitive impairment.
Pomegranate was one of the earliest cultivated fruits, and has been prominent throughout history in art, culture, and religion, from the story of the seasons in Greek mythology to Romeo and Juliet to the Bible.
Pomegranate is ubiquitous in Middle Eastern cooking and its super food status, unique flavor and texture has made it increasingly popular in the U.S. A pomegranate contains hundreds of tiny, crisp arils; each aril is a seed encased in a juicy pulp, a tasty mix of sweet and tart flavors.
4. Broccoli
Whether you love the stuff or hate it, 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. And according to a recent study (2020), it only takes about 1/2 cup a day to see benefits.
Eating a daily serving of cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, or brussels sprouts is linked to a lower likelihood of harmful calcium buildup in the aorta, the body’s largest artery, according to a new report.
Broccoli – Yum! Yes, this close relative of cabbage and cauliflower is both nutritious and delicious. While the largest cultivators of broccoli are China and India, the popular vegetable is eaten all over the world. In fact, it’s loaded with fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that work to keep the body healthy. Broccoli health benefits include the ability to boost the immune system, lower blood pressure, reduce inflammation, and so much more.
5. Turmeric
This spice is a powerful anti-inflammatory. It works to lower inflammation, which is a major cause of arteriosclerosis — the hardening of the arteries. Turmeric is so powerful against inflammation thanks to mainly to one compound, called curcumin. Adding turmeric to your diet can reduce damage to arterial walls, lowering your chances of a blood clot.
6. Persimmon
Better than an apple a day, persimmons are loaded with antioxidants and polyphenols, which work to decrease LDL and triglycerides. They’re also a great source of fiber, which helps to regulate blood pressure and keep your arteries clear.
7. Spirulina
It might sound a little weird, but this blue-green algae helps to regulate lipid levels in the blood. It’s also a source of protein that contains all of the essential amino acids needed by the body to maintain optimum health. Spirulina can help relax artery walls and stabilize blood pressure while balancing your blood fat levels.
8. Cinnamon
This delicious spice can help to reduce cholesterol levels while clearing out plaque and preventing further build-up. Cinnamon is full of antioxidants which improve cardiovascular health by protecting blood from oxidation. Researchers have called it a “mystic” ingredient due its many health benefits. Sprinkle some in your coffee, on your toast, or on just about any other food to spice it up a little, and reap the benefits!
9. Cranberries
Cranberries are another antioxidant-rich food that can reduce LDL and raise HDL cholesterol levels. In fact, regular consumption of pure cranberry juice may help reduce your overall risk of heart disease by as much as 40%!
Cranberries are one of the highest fruit sources of antioxidants. The powerful disease-fighting antioxidants they contain are responsible for their many health benefits. Cranberries benefits include the ability to strengthen the immune system, reduce the risk of heart disease, improve digestive health and more.
10. 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.
