People who smoke, drink excessive amounts of alcohol, and dont exercise enough are more likely to develop it. A buildup of atherosclerotic plaque over time can lead to such serious problems as heart attack and stroke, according to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, a division of the National Institutes of Health (NIH). But the soft plaque beneath the cap is dangerous. It doesn't take much research to conclude that the standard American diet isn't the healthiest. Plaque forms when cholesterol lodges in the wall of the artery. Here are some additional tips that may help you prevent plaque buildup. However, the arteries can become blocked with atherosclerotic plaque (fatty substances), inhibiting the movement of blood through the body. Doctors cannot remove plaque completely from your arteries, but treatments can reduce the size of a blockage. People can prevent clogged arteries with the following lifestyle changes: The type of fat a person eats can affect plaque in the arteries. It can also lower triglycerides, another type of fat that increases your heart disease risk. Apple cider vinegar is a terrific ingredient in foods, sauces, and dressings. The drugs used most often to reduce LDL cholesterol levels are statinssuch as atorvastatin (Lipitor) and rosuvastatin (Crestor). And Vitamin K2 ( as MK-7 ) helps bind - or reduce calcium from existing plaque and carries to bones. Schade DS, et al. Researchers found nearly half, A simple blood test may do a better job at detecting heart disease than only measuring cholesterol levels, according to a new analysis. Summary: In a new study, investigators have revealed previously unknown factors that contribute to the hardening of arteries and plaque growth, which cause heart disease. Psychological stress levels may also cause a reaction in the body. (2018). Vitamin K is a fat-soluble vitamin that assists in blood clotting and modifies certain proteins to a calcium-binding form. (2009). Plaques consist of cholesterol and fatty substances, calcium, fibrin, and cell waste. Taking steps to prevent or slow down the formation of plaque is the best way to avoid clogged arteries at any stage in life. Research suggests that the ketogenic diet positively affects cardiovascular health and lowers several risk factors of plaque formation, including obesity, insulin resistance, and imbalanced cholesterol levels. Stabilizing plaque is the focus. 10 Simple Ways to Keep Your Heart Healthy and Strong. It directly damages the arteries and can make fatty deposits grow faster and become larger. This is because these kinds of fats contain high levels of LDL cholesterol, which is the main material of plaque in the arteries. It is important to continue a heart-healthy diet and regular physical activity even if youre taking a cholesterol-lowering medication. Policosanol is an extract thats made from plants such as sugar cane and yams. High levels of cholesterol arent the only risk factor in developing atherosclerosis, but theyre a significant contributor. Taking large amounts of calcium supplementation may increase the risk of calcium deposits in blood vessel walls. Learn how to recognize coronary artery disease symptoms, how to manage the symptoms, and, Alternative treatments for heart attacks? This is based on wishful thinking, not science. That's why LDL is known as "bad" cholesterol. Avocados, walnuts, and fatty fish all contain unsaturated fats. Plus, get a FREE copy of the Best Diets for Cognitive Fitness. Vitamin K2 is an essential vitamin involved in bone health and blood clotting and has been found to reduce arterial plaque calcification. Keep in mind that these measures are not a substitute for medical treatment for people with serious heart problems. Watch the video below to learn how vitamin D3 supports healthy blood vessels. See additional information. (2013). Many doctors prescribe statins and lifestyle changes to get LDL levels below 70 mg/dL in people at high risk of having a heart attack in the next 10 years. 100 percent whole grains (especially gluten-free grains like rolled oats, quinoa, buckwheat or amaranth) Beans and legumes such as kidney beans, lentils, chickpeas, black-eyed peas and lima beans And don't forget there's a strong link between sugar consumption and heart disease, too. The daily recommended amount of niacin is 16 mg for men. A 2009 literature review concluded that garlic doesnt reduce cholesterol, but a similar review from 2014 suggested that taking garlic could prevent heart disease. (2015). We include products we think are useful for our readers. (2022). such as psoriasis and lupus, Issues unique to women, Besides, orange juice is packed with antioxidant vitamin C which aids to get rid of plaque in arteries by preventing damage in the blood flowing. Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. However, coronary artery calcification can cause stiff arteries and high blood pressure, significantly increasing the risk of coronary heart disease, cardiac arrest, and stroke. Some procedures and interventions can also remove plaque or strengthen arteries. 5. Ginger supplementation may also improve significant markers that can lead to cardiovascular events, according to a 2016 study. Talk to your doctor before you take any supplements, since some might interfere with medicines youre already taking. Heart Disease: Is This Protein Test a Better Predictor of Risk Than Cholesterol Levels? We avoid using tertiary references. The report also focuses on treatments based on the latest scientific evidence, including the pros and cons of statins and other medications, and provides the lowdown on other substances advertised to lower cholesterol. Low-dose intake (400 mcg) has been recommended for overall health. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove or bypass the plaque to restore blood flow and lower blood pressure. Green tea intake lowers fasting serum total and LDL cholesterol in adults: A meta-analysis of 14 randomized controlled trials. "For patients at high risk, despite lifestyle changes, the statin medications are the anchor of therapy and have proven to be effective and safe in preventing first heart attacks and subsequent cardiovascular events in patients who have already had a heart attack," Dr. Mintz concludes. DOI: Sahebkar A, et al. While age is considered a risk factor for blocked arteries, unhealthy lifestyle habits may increase your risk of arterial clogging at a younger age. Take time to relax each day, and seek help from a therapist if you need help coping with issues you might face in your everyday life. Atherosclerosis Your arteries may narrow due to the formation of these plaques. Here's one quote: Making plaque disappear is not possible. Its unclear what causes the condition, since many factors are involved. Cholesterol and protein deposits form plaque similar to scar tissue, leading to stiff blood vessels that lower the bodys ability to regulate blood pressure. This fat-soluble vitamin activates a group of proteins that bind calcium into bone rather than releasing it into the bloodstream. Plaques comprise cholesterol, calcium, a blood-clotting protein called fibrin, and cellular waste products. Foods that are high in trans fats include: Along with trans fats, saturated fats may also affect heart health, though the evidence for this is mixed. Atherosclerosis: Causes and risk factors. This blocks blood flow to your vital organs, in particular the heart. including pregnancy-induced high blood pressure, early menopause and polycystic Depending on the severity and location of plaque buildup, a doctor may recommend a procedure or surgery to remove plaque from your arteries or to bypass the clogged artery entirely. This supports healthy calcium blood levels and directly reduces calcium deposition into arterial plaque. We avoid using tertiary references. . Anti-platelet medications, like aspirin, reduce the likelihood that platelets will gather in the blocked artery, causing blood clots. Could time-restricted eating cause fertility problems? While indulging every so often is no biggie, frequent or daily consumption of such unhealthy foods can lead to the growth of plaque in the arteries. Mazidi, M., Gao, H.-K., Rezaie, P., & Ferns, G. A. In many cases, people can prevent a plaque buildup and atherosclerosis. Removing plaque makes the artery wider, so blood can flow more freely to the heart muscles. Quitting smoking, if you smoke, can also help reverse plaque. 2. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we: We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness. While this phytochemical is found in many plant foods, seeds and nuts have the highest phytic acid content. In some cases, efforts can even reverse some of the damage to improve your heart health. Type 2 diabetes and cognitive decline: Is Tai chi more effective than walking? While diet and lifestyle are major contributors, your risk of atherosclerosis may also increase with age. One review of scientific studies found there was a small but possibly important reduction in the risk of cardiovascular issues when people cut down on saturated fats and replaced them with unsaturated fats. Variability in strength of red yeast rice supplements purchased from mainstream retailers. Lifestyle interventions and carotid plaque burden: A comparative analysis of two lifestyle intervention programs in patients with coronary artery disease. These cholesterol-laden particles are known as low-density lipoprotein, or LDL. For example, atherosclerosis is most common in your 60s and 70s. It can lead to heart attack or stroke. A doctor may recommend a specific exercise routine to fit an individual, based on various lifestyle factor. Factors including smoking, elevated insulin levels, excessive alcohol, and chronic inflammation can injure the lining of arteries and lead to lesions and leaks. Flaxseed, chia seeds and walnuts are also good sources of the nutrient, according to the NIH's Office of Dietary Supplements. While you can't make arterial plaque disappear entirely, "you can shrink it, you can stabilize it," says Dr. Christopher Cannon, cardiologist and Harvard Medical School professor who was featured in the Harvard Health Letter. Replacing processed foods with nutrient-dense options like vegetables, fruit, whole grains and healthy proteins will help prevent plaque buildup more effectively than any supposed magic pill. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission Heres our process. Naturally occurring vitamin K includes a number of different vitamin K compounds, classified as either vitamin K 1 (phylloquinone) or vitamin K 2 (menaquinones). You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our. Total cholesterol should be less than 200 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) LDL cholesterol should be under 100 mg/dL, while HDL cholesterol should be over 60 mg/dL. That increases your risk for plaque buildup. Keep in mind that these measures are not a substitute for medical treatment for people with serious heart problems. A doctor may perform a percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Alexandria, VA 22302.Phone: 703-354-7336, Dr. Berg Nutritionals, Address: 4501 Ford Avenue, Alexandria, Once youve had a clog removed or reduced, its important to do everything you can to prevent more plaque buildup so you can lead a longer, healthier life. Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. Continuous plaque buildup can cause arterial blockage, significantly increasing the risk of heart attacks and stroke. (2022). (2020). There are two kinds of cholesterol. Sanchez A, et al. National Library of Medicines list How do you get the cholesterol out of the plaque? Atherosclerosis, 240(2), 415-423. Trans fatty acids a risk factor for cardiovascular disease. , a group of proteins linked to LDL oxidation, plaque calcification, and the stiffening of blood vessels. A drug made from a highly purified form of EPA (an omega-3 fatty acid found in fish) appears to help reduce plaque in the heart's arteries, according to a study published online Aug. 29, 2020, by the European Heart Journal. Another review study suggests that people should avoid saturated fats because they increase LDL cholesterol in the body, which is a direct cause of heart issues. Risk factors for developing arterial plaque include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, diabetes, obesity, and a family history of heart disease. Beyond its key role in calcium homeostasis, vitamin D has been found to significantly affect the cardiovascular (CV) system. As a result, it is important to address it as soon as it is discovered. To remove plaque from arteries, the following procedures are performed: Angioplasty. Causing blood clots youre already taking plaque burden: a comparative analysis of two lifestyle intervention programs patients. 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