Clogged arteries occur when plaque builds up on the inner walls of the passages. This blockage can restrict the blood flow and lead to serious health issues such as heart attack or stroke. Luckily, home remedies for clogged arteries can ease symptoms and might even help prevent dangerous repercussions by preventing buildup in the first place.
Dark Chocolate
Dark chocolate is a sweet treat high in fiber, magnesium, and iron. These three vitamins are helpful in reducing the amount of plaque buildup in the arteries. If you eat dark chocolate as a remedy for clogged arteries, be sure to stay away from processed options, because they contain high amounts of sugar. If you find this snack too bitter to eat alone, you can also bake with it. Keep in mind chocolate is high in trans fats — enjoy in moderation!
The SMASH Fish Diet
SMASH is an acronym for sardines, mackerel, anchovies, salmon, and herring. These fish have high levels of omega-3s, which are known to reduce the levels of bad cholesterol in the body. The diet recommends two servings of these types of fish per week. The SMASH Fish Diet is a popular choice for those looking to reduce plaque buildup in the arteries naturally. Add other food items from this list to the fish for an extra boost.
Cayenne Pepper
Cayenne pepper contains capsaicin, which has powerful anti-inflammatory abilities. Although it may not cure clogged arteries, studies have shown that eating cayenne pepper could help prevent them. Cayenne pepper can be added to many different foods and drinks to reap the benefits of this ingredient. Many people choose to add a small amount to green tea or water.
Garlic
Garlic may help to reduce the amount of plaque in your arteries. Though delicious, it is also available as a supplement for those who don’t like the taste of it. This small yet powerful food is known to improve circulation, strengthen the immune system, and lower the risk of heart attack. It adds a savory taste to stir-fry, soup, salad dressing, meats, and vegetables. Adding it to the foods that you already eat is a great way to start incorporating more of it into your diet.
Turmeric
Turmeric is a spice that has many different health benefits. Curcumin is the main ingredient in this spice and is a powerful antioxidant that can help combat clogged arteries. Turmeric has been used in medicine for thousands of years and can lower cholesterol levels and prevent clogged arteries. Turmeric is traditionally used in Indian cooking. The taste is somewhat bitter and pungent and, like garlic, you can take turmeric as a supplement if you’d prefer to skip the flavor.
Lemon
Lemons contain high levels of vitamin C, which can help prevent coronary artery disease. It also keeps blood flowing properly throughout the body. You can add lemons to many foods, or boil water with the peel to make a powerful antioxidant drink. Boil one tablespoon of lemon peels with four cups of water for twenty minutes, strain out the peels, and then add honey. Drink one cup of this mixture with each meal for several weeks to get the most benefit.
Pomegranate
Pomegranates are an excellent source of vitamins C, E, and K. Research shows drinking pomegranate juice can reverse hardening of the arteries. The antioxidant qualities mean it’s also useful for clearing out the plaque that can accumulate in the passageways. Drink the pure juice or eat the fruit itself to get the best benefits of this superfood.
Red Yeast Rice
Studies have shown that red yeast rice can help lower bad cholesterol and increase the levels of good cholesterol. In turn, eating red yeast rice can keep the arteries clear of blockages. It can be added as a side dish to many different recipes and is also available in capsule form. This type of rice contains a natural form of an active ingredient in some blood pressure medications. Be sure to speak to your doctor before using red yeast rice, especially if you take any medications.
Flaxseed
Flaxseed contains high levels of alpha-linolenic acid, which can help prevent clogged arteries by maintaining healthy blood flow. The nutty-tasting seed is very versatile; it can be eaten whole, ground into powder, or consumed as an oil. Flaxseed is a rich source of fiber and antioxidants so add it to your cereal, soup, yogurt, and salad. It can also be used as a replacement for eggs when baking.
Ginger
Ginger is an excellent food to add to your diet if you have clogged arteries. It has many antioxidant properties that can help remove plaque and prevent future clogging. It can also remove toxins from the bloodstream. The recommended dose of ginger is one teaspoon or ten grams per day. Add the root to dishes or steeped in water to make a tea.