An abdominal aortic aneurysm or AAA is an abnormal bulge in the wall of an artery, particularly the aorta which is main the artery coming from the heart which reaches through to the abdomen. Aneurysms can be dangerous if they continue to grow unnoticed and rupture causing internal bleeding. There are certain foods people with AAA should avoid according to MayoClinic.com as this can exacerbate the condition.
High Fat foods
Foods high in saturated fat and cholesterol should be avoided to prevent an abdominal aortic aneurysm, according to the CardioSmart, the patient education website of the American College of Cardiology. This is because the blood flow through the arteries should be as unrestricted as possible to allow for safe flow of blood. Saturated fat, cholesterol and trans fat can build up along the artery walls restricting blood flow and increasing pressure causing the aneurysm to burst. Foods high in cholesterol and fat include fried foods of any kind, beef, high-fat dairy products, cheese and cream sauces.
High Salt Foods
CardioSmart explains that an aneurysm can develop from prolonged high pressure within an artery. A high salt diet increases the pressure of the blood flow exerted on the vessel walls putting extra pressure on the aneurysm, which increases the likelihood of a rupture. Foods high in salt to avoid include boxed and prepared foods, canned vegetables, canned soups and cured meats.
Refined Sugar
Foods high in refined sugar tend to raise triglyceride levels according to the Cleveland Clinic. High triglyceride levels create damage to the walls of blood vessels since they accumulate and form plaques. Foods high in refined sugar include baked goods, cookies, cakes, ice cream, white bread, white pasta, doughnuts, soda and candy. These foods should be avoided for prevention of an AAA as well as for treatment for an AAA.
