High blood pressure and high levels of bad cholesterol can cause arterial clogging. The arteries are blood vessels that transfer blood rich in oxygen from the heart to the other organs in the body.
When they are healthy, they are flexible, strong, and elastic. Atherosclerosis develops when the arteries are clogged with arterial plaque for a longer period of time. This problem can cause heart attacks, peripheral vascular diseases, and strokes. Unfortunately, it takes away 600,000 U.S. lives on a yearly basis.
The Major Signs of Atherosclerosis
The signs depend on the type of arteries that are affected by the clogging. Let’s take a look:
Clogged carotid arteries in the brain cause carotid artery disease which is usually manifested through blurry vision, difficulty speaking, dizziness, headaches, sudden weakness, loss of balance, and breathing issues.
Clogged coronary arteries in the heart lead to an insufficient supply of blood to the heart muscle. This is characterized by problems like squeezing in the neck, jaws, shoulders, and arms, shortness of breath, pain in the chest, etc.
Clogged renal arteries in the kidneys are manifested through loss of appetite, issues with the concentration, swollen hands and feet, nausea, etc.
Clogged peripheral arteries in the pelvis, legs, and arms cause ache and numbness.
The Reason for the Blockage
Thickening and hardening of the arteries caused by free radicals, platelet cells, toxic metals, cellular waste, calcium, fat, and vitamin C deficiency can damage the endothelial cells that maintain the proper blood flow.
Atherosclerosis is a condition which can develop in childhood and progress with aging. Other contributing factors are diabetes, smoking, high blood pressure, and insulin resistance.
How to Unclog the Arteries Naturally
Garlic
According to a study from 1991, this potent veggie is very good in unclogging the arteries, lowering the blood pressure, and averting atherosclerosis and heart problems.
Sesame seeds
They are rich in fatty acids that inhibited the formation of lesions and decrease the levels of blood cholesterol and triglycerides in laboratory mice. So, they can unclog the blocked arteries and prevent the atherosclerosis from progressing.
Ginger
This plant possesses anti-inflammatory and antioxidative properties and the gingerols and shogaols in it have the capacity to minimize the plaque deposits, lower cholesterol, and unclog the arteries.
Turmeric
This is another plant of the ginger family that has the power to lower bad cholesterol and cease the formation of plaque. Studies point out that it can suppress atherosclerotic lesions.
Pomegranate juice
This juice is rich in antioxidants and punicic acid that will unclog the arteries, decrease the formation of plaque, and treat atherosclerosis. The selenium and magnesium found in pomegranate will boost the heart’s health.
Cinnamon
A study done in 2003 and published in the Diabetes Care journal showed that consumption of 1, 3, or 6 grams of cinnamon on a daily basis reduced the bad cholesterol, glucose, triglycerides, and cholesterol in type 2 diabetics.
Lemons
This fruit can lower the levels of bad cholesterol and prevent oxidative damage. The vitamin A will increase the levels of lipoprotein, minimize inflammation, strengthen the arteries, and stop the aggregation of the platelets.
Fermented cabbage
Kimchi is made of fermented cabbage and hot peppers and it can slow down the atherosclerotic process. When fermented, cabbage degrades toxins.
Flaxseed
It is abundant in fiber and it can unclog the arteries. The omega-3 acid in it will decrease high blood pressure and treat inflammation.
Cayenne pepper
It can decrease bad cholesterol, lower the chance for strokes and heart attacks, and better the blood flow.
Other Natural Cures for Clogged Arteries
- Broccoli
- Coconut oil
- Fenugreek seeds
- Dietary supplements: folic acid, vitamin B6 and B12, vitamin C and E, lutein, grape seed extract, selenium, copper, magnesium, etc.
- Fish oil
- Asparagus
- Avocados
- Chia seeds
- Physical activity for at least one hour per day, 5 times per one week (opt for walking, yoga, meditation, running, etc.)
