When there is too much plaque in the body, it creates deposits on artery walls, reducing the passageway through which blood flows. Plaque can be caused by calcium and/or cholesterol build-up, which affects arterial elasticity and can lead to hardening of the arteries, stroke and heart attack. Additionally, when blood vessels are constricted, inflammation can ensue, causing varicose veins.
Reducing Arterial Plaque With Vitamin K
According to an article in Health Day News, foods rich in vitamin K help to clean out excess plaque in the arteries. At Holland's Maastricht University, a study on arterial plaque showed that foods high in vitamin K help to maintain more elastic arteries, whereby the blood can flow more freely. Foods rich in vitamin K include:
• Soybeans
• Green vegetables such as kale, spinach, broccoli and Brussels sprouts
• Organic olive and canola oil
Clearing Arteries With Omega-3 Fatty Acids
An article in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology claims that high levels of omega-3 fatty acids may also reduce plaque accumulation in the arteries. According to research done by Dr. Akira Sekikawa, assistant professor of epidemiology at the University of Pittsburgh, middle-aged men living in Japan have less cholesterol buildup in their arteries than their North American counterparts. This is due to the predominance of fish in Japanese diets. Fish contains a high amount of omega-3 fatty acids, which help to sweep out both calcium and cholesterol-derived plaque from the arteries. Other foods that are high in omega-3 are flaxseed, walnuts, tofu and soybeans.
Additional Foods for Clearing the Arteries
Studies completed by Tufts University researchers and Jean Mayer from the USA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging show that oats help to prevent cholesterol from adhering to arterial walls. Buy organic steel-cut raw oats rather than instant oats when possible.
Pomegranate juice is another food that helps to combat hardening of the arteries, stroke and heart attack. According to Dr. Claudio Napoli, professor of medicine and clinical pathology at the University of Naples, Italy, pomegranates contain antioxidants that are believed to strengthen artery and capillary walls while enhancing immune function and promoting overall health.
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