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Arteriosclerosis refers to the rigidity and clogging of the arteries (the blood vessels that transport oxygen and nutrients from the heart to the other parts of the body) Arteriosclerosis does not necessarily mean that you have a pain in the chest, as the clogging may take place in the arteries of any part of the body.
A blockage in the arteries of the heart can cause chest pain, while a blockage in the arteries of the brain may cause slurred speech, numbness in the arms and feet, and dropping of the facial muscles. Arteriosclerosis can also occur in the arteries of the kidneys, genitals, and arms and legs. Medications and surgeries are medical treatment options for arteriosclerosis. Certain home remedies are effective in preventing and delaying the progress of arteriosclerosis.
Home Remedies For Arteriosclerosis
Exercise
Exercising has always been beneficial in treating arteriosclerosis. Exercising increases the oxygen intake of your arterial muscles, thus helping in removing the toxins from them. Exercising also improves the blood circulation within the arteries and also helps in the generation of new blood vessels, which serve as compensatory channels for the flow of blood in the arteries.
Exercising lowers blood pressure and reduces the risk of developing diabetes. Exercising helps in losing weight which is a preventive measure in the development of arteriosclerosis.
Quit Smoking
Smoking has been found to be one of the major culprits of arteriosclerosis. Smoking blocks and damages the arteries. Smoking should be stopped completely to prevent arteriosclerosis or delay its progress in the body.
Fish Oil
Dietary intake of fish is found to lower the risk of arteriosclerosis. Generally, fish contains n-3 fatty acids, which promote cardiovascular health. These n-3 fatty acids specifically eliminate the processes that result in the development of arteriosclerosis. Fish are found to reduce the risk of thrombic arteriosclerosis by lowering the plasma lipoprotein and plasma lipid levels, which is an antithrombic action. It is also seen to facilitate vasodilatation, which opens up the arteries, thus reducing the risk of clogged arteries.
Cod liver oil, which is rich in n-3 fatty acids is seen to reduce the incidence of arteriosclerosis. Fish oil also reduces carotid arteriosclerosis. Coronary arteriosclerosis is found to be less common in post menopausal women with a dietary intake of fish. The dietary fish also reduces the extent of reduction of coronary diameter and reduce the formation of arterial lesions. Fish oil can be included in a number of dishes of different cuisines.
Alphalinolenic Acid (ALA)
Alpha-linolenic acid is an essential fatty acid that helps in promoting heart health, the reversal of hardening of the arteries being one of them. It removes arterial blood clots.
However, it does not help in the reduction of arterial cholesterol. Walnut, flaxseed oil, soybean oil, canola oil, red meat and dairy products are some of the foods that are excellent natural sources of ALA. They can be included in your daily diet to improve your arterial health.
Artichoke
Artichokes and their leaves are found to reduce bad cholesterol, one of the primary causes of arterial blockages, in the arteries. This is because it contains cynarin which reduces cholesterol levels in the human body. The cynarin along with the antioxidants and phytochemicals promotes heart and digestive health.
Steamed stuffed artichokes, artichoke salads and soups, and grilled artichokes are some the healthy artichoke dishes that can be incorporated in one’s diet to improve arterial health.
Barley
Barely leaf is found to have antioxidant and hypolipidemic effect on the human body which is important for cardiac health. It is particularly found to be effective in the treatment of arteriosclerosis.
The 2”-O-glycosylisovitexin( 2O-GIV) flavonoid present in barley grass have antioxidant effect and prevent lipid peroxidation. The fiber content of barley helps in the removal of cholesterol from the body. Barley grass reduces the risk of development of arteriosclerosis.
Healthy Foods
Foods that do not contain bad cholesterol, saturated fats, and low-sodium can help in the prevention of plaque formation on the arterial walls. Dishes cooked with fruits and vegetables and whole grains are a healthy option.
Avoid commercially processed foods, and foods made with refined sugar and refined flours, as these foods do not contain any nutrients, but contain unhealthy fats. Certain cooking media contain saturated fats and they should be avoided.
Cocoa
Cocoa, the main constituent of chocolate that rules the taste buds, finds a great health reason to be on your menu! The antioxidative effects of the cocoa polyphenols are found to have anti-arteriosclerosis properties. Cocoa dilates blood vessels, thereby treating endothelial dysfunction, which is the main cause of arteriosclerosis.
The cocoa flavonols, catechin and epicatechin improve endothelial health by increasing the bioactivity of nitric oxide. The flavonols increase blood flow and reduce the tendency of arterial blood clotting. It also lowers blood pressure and LDL resist oxidation.
Pomegranate
The pomegranate is one of the most effective promoters of cardiovascular health. The antioxidant properties of pomegranate protect the blood vessels and the heart. Pomegranate juice slows down the formation of arterial plaque.
Pomegranate is found to be effective in reducing stress-induced ischemia, and thereby promoting cardiovascular health. The anthocyanins, punicalagins, and tannins, present in pomegranate are all responsible for lowering blood pressure and promoting cardiovascular health. The pomegranate has antioxidative properties to protect the nitric oxide from oxidation and make it available for cardioprotective functions.
Garlic
Garlic is found to improve arterial health, and prevent and treat arteriosclerosis. Garlic prevents clotting or thrombus formation in the arteries. It also prevents hyperlipidemia. Garlic lowers high blood pressure. It is found to be beneficial in the treatment of diabetes mellitus.
All these properties make garlic one of the most beneficial home remedies for arteriosclerosis. Garlic is most beneficial when eaten raw. Garlic soup and garlic tea are also found to be powerful home medications for a number of ailments.
Reduce Mental Stress
Mental stress stiffens up the arteries and makes them inelastic. Hence, it is important to lead a stress-free life. Mental stress can be reduced by doing meditation regularly and by doing physical exercise.
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Caution: Please use Home Remedies after Proper Research and Guidance. You accept that you are following any advice at your own risk and will properly research or consult healthcare professional.