can olive oil remove plaque from arteries?

[Shocking Science Experiment] Your Arteries With & Without Olive Oil

Plaque consists of fatty deposits that accumulate on the walls of your arteries. With plaque buildup, the artery walls harden and their passageway narrows, limiting blood flow to other organs and body parts that need oxygen and nutrient-rich blood to function. This results in a condition known as atherosclerosis and can lead to a number of other serious cardiovascular conditions. 

arteries

CHRISTOPH BURGSTEDT/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY / Getty Images

Causes of Plaque

Plaque consists of cholesterol, fat, calcium, fibrin, and cellular waste products.1 Its formation involves a complex process in which waxy cholesterol adheres to the arterial walls, causing them to thicken, harden, and narrow. This eventually leads to atherosclerosis. 

Cholesterol is found in every cell in the body. It plays an important part in the production of vitamin D, hormones, and substances that aid in food digestion.2 There are two types of cholesterol: high-density lipoproteins (HDL, known as the “good” cholesterol) take cholesterol from other parts of the body back to the liver, which then eliminates it from the body. Low-density lipoproteins (LDL, the “bad” cholesterol) are responsible for creating the buildup of plaque in the arteries.2 

When plaque builds up in the arteries, the body responds by sending white blood cells that attempt to digest LDL, which then turns into toxins. More and more white blood cells are attracted to the area where the change is occurring, leading to inflammation in the artery wall.3 This process causes muscle cells in the artery walls to rapidly increase in number, forming a cover over soft plaque. If this dangerous soft plaque breaks off, it can form a clot, impeding blood flow to organs and body parts.4

Plaque formation due to cholesterol can be caused by various factors, including the following.4

Diet: Foods that are high in saturated fats and trans fats

Weight: Being overweight can lead to increased triglyceride levels as well as heightened risk of heart disease

Exercise: Daily physical activity can help lower cholesterol levels, but also lower triglycerides and raise HDL

Age and sex: As people age, cholesterol levels are prone to increase. In postmenopausal women, LDL rises while HDL can decrease

Heredity: Cholesterol issues may run in families. Genes determine how much cholesterol the body makes

 The 6 Best Cholesterol Test Kits of 2022

To help lower cholesterol, experts recommend making several lifestyle changes.4

Quitting smoking: Apart from increasing the risk of other serious conditions like respiratory and heart diseases, tobacco reduces HDL

Diet change: Reduce foods high in saturated fat like red meat, dairy, and sugar and eat more vegetables, fruit, poultry, fish, and whole grains

Control both blood sugar and blood pressure: Watch blood sugar levels, especially with diabetes, and keep blood pressure within a healthy range

 Ways You Can Lower High Cholesterol

Risk Factors for Plaque

Plaque build-up in the arteries is inevitable, but many risk factors may lead to atherosclerosis. Several of these risk factors can be controlled and help delay or prevent atherosclerosis, while others can’t be controlled.

The following risk factors should be carefully monitored.5 

High cholesterol level

Hypertension: A blood pressure of 140/90 mm Hg over time is considered high if it remains at that level or goes above it

Smoking: Blood vessels not only narrow as a result of smoking, but smoking also raises cholesterol levels and blood pressure

Insulin resistance: When the body can't use its insulin properly, it builds up a resistance that may lead to diabetes

Being overweight or obese

Older age: Atherosclerosis risk increases with age, especially with unhealthy lifestyle choices. In men, the risk increases after age 45. In women, the risk increases after age 55

Family history of early heart disease: Atherosclerosis risk increases if your father or brother was diagnosed with heart disease before 55 years or if your mother or sister was diagnosed with heart disease before 65 years

Warning Signs of Plaque Buildup

Plaque in arteries doesn’t cause any symptoms or signs unless an artery has narrowed or is blocked and blood flow is unable to efficiently reach other parts of the body. Most people won’t know their arteries are hardened or blocked until they have a heart attack or stroke.5 

For example, a person with narrowed or blocked coronary arteries may have ischemic heart disease and experience angina. Other symptoms can be shortness of breath and arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat rhythm).5 

People with blocked carotid arteries may experience symptoms that indicate a stroke. These may range from sudden weakness, confusion, paralysis, speech problems (speaking and understanding), and vision issues to severe headache, dizziness, and loss of consciousness.5

If you experience any of the above, call your healthcare provider or 911 immediately for emergency medical assistance.

Reducing Plaque

To reduce atherosclerosis risk caused by plaque, experts recommend lifestyle changes that include eating a healthy diet without any processed foods or animal products. Primarily plant-based diets (fruit, vegetable, legumes, whole grains) have been shown to improve blood flow and reverse coronary artery disease to some degree.6

A patient shares: How I recovered from totally blocked arteries

An artery-friendly eating plan like the Mediterranean diet is rich in fruits and vegetables but also includes olive oil, nuts, fish, and limited portions of meat, dairy, and wine.3 Whichever eating plan you select, be sure to watch calorie consumption and maintain a healthy weight to lower your risk for heart disease, diabetes, and other conditions.7  

 Which Nuts Help Lower Your Risk for Heart Disease?

In addition to diet, experts recommend that adults participate in some form of aerobic exercise three to four times a week, lasting for at least 40 minutes and involving moderate to intensive activities.7

Even with the lifestyle changes noted above, plaque won’t entirely disappear. With treatment, healthcare providers are able to target smaller blockages of soft plaque by reducing the cholesterol that will shrivel the plaque.6 To remove the cholesterol within the plaque, prescribed statins target LDL cholesterol. These include atorvastatin (Lipitor) and rosuvastatin (Crestor), which work by hindering the liver enzyme responsible for cholesterol production. Ezetimibe (Zetia) may also be included in a patient’s protocol to impede cholesterol absorption in the digestive tract.6

 Herbs and Supplements That Can Help Lower Your Cholesterol

A Word From Verywell

In spite of the asymptomatic nature of plaque buildup in the arteries, it's important that you have your cholesterol levels regularly checked to lower your risk of heart disease. The American Heart Association advises that adults aged 20 and older should have their blood cholesterol checked every four to six months. By the time you've reached age 40, your healthcare provider may monitor your levels more closely based on your age, gender, family history, and other factors. They will determine which treatment is best for your case—whether lifestyle changes, medication, or some combination of both—depending on the results of your cholesterol measurements.

Sorry to all the oil lovers. Not only oils are a processed food there is nothing healthy about eating the extracted fat or anything, whether a vegetable or any other kind of food. We’ve heard that oils are considered healthful foods, especially olive oil, canola, and coconut oils. We are aware that the Mediterranean diet especially considers oil as a healthy source of nutrients; however, olive oil is not a “health” food. Neither is coconut, grapeseed, flaxseed, or any other added oil.

"Processed" food is the result of one or various elements that have been extracted from their original source. When a single nutrient is extracted from a food all other essential nutrients that make it an integral or complete food are left out. This is the case of isolated proteins, for example, where all other nutrients from the original whole food (corn, soy, or peas) such as its fiber, essential fatty-acids, carbohydrates, minerals, and vitamins are left out and only the protein is used. The resulting element is one hundred percent protein, isolated from its original source.

The same concept can be applied to the sugar cane or the corn kernels, where only its glucose is extracted to create sugar or corn syrup. When only the fat is extracted to create oil, it follows the same model— it’s one-hundred percent fat and the exclusion of all other nutrients such as fiber, protein, carbohydrates, minerals and vitamins are discarded. Oil has more calories per gram than any other food. A tablespoon contains about 14 grams of fat.

Scientifically speaking, the extracted elements are considered single isolated nutrients that lose their bioavailability or behave differently than when naturally contained in their original form.

Processed vegetable oils, dairy products, and animal meats (beef, pork, chicken, fish, etc.) injure the layer of our blood vessels known as the endothelial cells. This cell layer is a one cell thick lining of all of our blood vessels. Endothelial cells manufacture a protective molecule of gas called nitric oxide, which protects our blood vessels, and keeps our blood flowing smoothly. Nitric oxide is the strongest dilator (widener) of our blood vessels. It inhibits the formation of blockages (plaques) and inhibits inflammation.

By injuring our endothelial cells and reducing the amount of endothelial cells left to produce nitric oxide, the standard western diet also helps plaque blockages build up and grow. The cholesterol, cells, and debris can cause a whole cascade of events that lead to inflammation, heart disease, plaque formation, and heart attacks.

So yes, olive, as well as any other oils, do clog arteries regardless of how or where they are made. Fat is fat.

Just the opposite. Olive Oil does NOT clog arteries but instead helps to keep them clear. Olive Oil is one of the healthiest oils you can ingest. It can help with the cardiovascular system and brain.

According to Healthline, these are the Proven Benefits of Olive Oil

• Olive Oil Is Rich in Healthy Monounsaturated Fats. ...
• Olive Oil Contains Large Amounts of Antioxidants. ...
• Olive Oil Has Strong Anti-Inflammatory Properties. ...
• Olive Oil May Help Prevent Strokes. ...
• Olive Oil Is Protective Against Heart Disease. ...
• Olive Oil Is Not Associated With Weight Gain and Obesity.

Removing plaque from your arterial walls is difficult. In fact, it’s almost impossible without the use of an invasive treatment. Instead, the best course of action is to halt plaque development and prevent future plaque buildup.

1 Tablespoon of This Oil Can Clean Your Arteries & Prevent Heart Attack - Dr Mandell

How do arteries get clogged?

The circulatory system is an intricate network of capillaries, blood vessels, and arteries. These tubes move oxygenated blood through your body, helping fuel all your body’s functions. When the oxygen is used up, you exhale carbon dioxide from your lungs, breathe in more oxygen-rich blood, and start the cycle again.

As long as those blood vessels are clear and open, blood can flow freely. Sometimes small blockages build up inside your blood vessels. These blockages are called plaques. They develop when cholesterol sticks to the wall of the artery.

Your immune system, sensing a problem, will send white blood cells to attack the cholesterol. This sets off a chain of reactions that leads to inflammation. In a worst-case scenario, cells form a plaque over the cholesterol, and a small blockage is formed. Sometimes they can break loose and cause a heart attack. As the plaques grow, they may block blood flow in an artery entirely.

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Are there natural ways to unclog arteries?

You may have read articles or heard reports promoting natural ways to unclog your arteries. For now, research doesn’t support the use of specific foods to unclog arteries, though small studies in animals show promise for the future.

Losing weight, exercising more, or eating less cholesterol-rich foods are all steps you can take to reduce plaques, but these steps won’t remove existing plaques.

Focus on promoting better heart health by maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Healthy habits will help prevent additional plaque from forming.

Tips for prevention

Heart health tips

Eat a heart-healthy diet.

Make exercise a part of your regular routine. Aim for 30 minutes of exercise at least 5 days a week.

Don’t smoke. If you do smoke, talk to your doctor about smoking cessation programs to help you quit.

Limit your alcohol consumption to no more than one drink a day.

Direct your efforts toward decreasing your low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels and increasing your high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels. Your LDL level is a measure of the “bad” cholesterol that’s in your blood.

When you have a lot of LDL, the excess cholesterol floats through your body and may stick to your arterial walls. HDL, the “good” cholesterol, helps whisk away the LDL cells and stops plaques from forming.

Here are some additional tips that may help you prevent plaque buildup.

Read more: 28 healthy heart tips »

Eat a heart-healthy diet

Diet can play a big role in improving your heart health and reducing your risk for a buildup of plaque. It’s never too late to eat a healthier diet. Just as years of bad eating can damage your body, good eating can help heal it. A heart-healthy diet contains plenty of good fats and low amounts of bad fats.

Add more good fats to your diet. Good fats are also called unsaturated fats. They’re found in foods like olives, nuts, avocado, and fish.

Cut sources of saturated fat, such as fatty meat and dairy. Choose lean cuts of meat, and try eating more plant-based meals.

Eliminate artificial sources of trans fats. Most artificial trans fats are found in processed, packaged foods like cookies and snack cakes.

Increase your fiber intake. Soluble fiber helps lower your LDL. You can find soluble fiber in foods like vegetables, lentils, beans, and oats.

Cut back on sugar. Vitamins and minerals accompany the sugar found naturally in fruit. The sugar found in processed foods like cookies, ice cream, and sugar-sweetened beverages doesn’t have nutritional value. Too much added sugar can negatively impact your health.

Move more

Exercise can improve your cardiovascular health and help prevent cardiac issues. If you’re not physically active, start slowly. Go for a walk once or twice a week. When that fits into your schedule, go for more walks.

Slowly build up your routine and your stamina. Aim to get 30 minutes of moderately intense exercise at least five days per week.

Clear your arteries naturally and safely

It’s important to always talk with your doctor before starting a new exercise routine.

Shed pounds

When you eat better and move more, the natural result might be that you lose weight. Carrying extra weight increases your LDL cholesterol. That increases your risk for plaque buildup.

Losing as little as 5 to 10 percent of your body weight can have a huge impact on your health, including your cholesterol.

Stop smoking and drinking

The day you quit smoking, your health will start to rebound. Quitting smoking may help raise your HDL levels, too. Talk to your doctor if you need help quitting smoking. They can recommend smoking cessation programs and resources.

Too much alcohol can also affect your heart. But some studiesTrusted Source have shown that moderate use of alcohol may increase your HDL levels. It’s not a good idea for anyone to begin drinking for this reason, though. These studies are not definitive enough for doctors to encourage anyone to drink for heart health.

Read more: Can drinking alcohol affect your heart health? »

Medication

If lifestyle changes aren’t enough, your doctor may prescribe medication to help lower your LDL and prevent plaques. Be sure to take your cholesterol medication as prescribed. Many medications may also work better when you make healthy lifestyle changes. So, it’s never a bad idea to incorporate healthy changes, even if you’re taking medicine.

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Complications

If your doctor discovers that one or more of your arteries is blocked, lifestyle changes may not be enough. Instead, your doctor may suggest an invasive treatment to remove or bypass the blockages.

During these procedures, your doctor will insert a tiny tube into your artery to suck out the plaque or break up the plaque (atherectomy). Your doctor may then leave behind a tiny metal structure (stent) that helps support the artery and increase blood flow.

If these procedures aren’t effective or if the blockage is severe, a bypass may be required. During this surgery, your doctor will remove arteries from other parts of your body and replace the blocked artery.

It’s important you work with your doctor to create a treatment plan if you have clogged arteries. If blockages remain untreated, you could experience serious health complications like a stroke, aneurysm, or heart attack.

WERBUNG

Outlook

If you were diagnosed with arterial blockages, now is the time to get healthy. Though there is little you can do to unclog arteries, you can do a lot to prevent additional buildup. A heart-healthy lifestyle can help you lower your levels of artery-clogging LDL cholesterol. It can also help you be healthier overall.

Healthy lifestyle changes are especially important if you have a procedure to remove plaques or bypass a heavily clogged artery. Once you’ve had a clog removed or reduced, it’s important you do everything you can to prevent more plaque buildups so you can lead a longer, healthier life.

One cause of a heart attack or stroke is plaque rupture within a blood vessel called an artery. When a plaque ruptures, platelets rush to the scene and clump together to form a blood clot. Once formed, the blood clot blocks blood flow to the heart or brain, leading to a heart attack or stroke respectively.

One way to lower the risk of heart attack and stroke is to keep plaque from accumulating inside arteries and prevent a rupture of any plaque that’s there. Can olive oil do this? Studies show that people who eat a traditional Mediterranean diet have a lower risk of heart attack and stroke, and some health experts believe the abundance of extra-virgin olive oil they eat is a factor. Why olive oil, and can consuming olive oil prevent or remove plaque build-up inside arteries?

What’s Heart-Healthy in Extra Virgin Olive Oil?

It is rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, a type of fat that experts believe is healthier for the heart. What fewer people realize is extra virgin olive oil is also rich in antioxidants, substances that fight free radicals that damage cells and tissues and cause inflammation. Some of the antioxidants in olive oil include tyrosol, hydroxytyrosol, and oleuropein. These antioxidants may play a role in protecting against cardiovascular disease. In fact, there’s some evidence that components in olive oil can remove plaque inside arteries, thereby lowering the risk of stroke and heart attack.

How might olive oil be protective?

Research shows a diet that contains virgin olive oil enhances the activity of HDL-cholesterol, the “good” cholesterol that helps transport cholesterol from arteries back to the liver so it can’t create plaque. Also, based on research, the antioxidants in extra-virgin olive bind to HDL-cholesterol and protect it, so that it’s better able to do its job. That’s a boon for heart health!

In one study, 296 older people at increased risk of heart disease were assigned to eat one of three diets:

A Mediterranean diet supplemented with an ounce of extra virgin olive oil weekly

A Mediterranean diet supplemented with an ounce of nuts daily

A low-fat diet

 

The study found that subjects who followed the Mediterranean diet had HDL-cholesterol that functioned better to remove plaque, even though their total HDL-cholesterol didn’t go up. Healthier functioning HDL-cholesterol is better able to remove arterial plaque, so less of it builds up and leads to plaque rupture. Whether it can actually reverse already established cardiovascular disease is unclear. It’s more likely that it reduces the build-up of further arterial plaque.

1 TABLESPOON IN A.M. CLEAN YOUR ARTERIES, PREVENT HEART ATTACK & STROKE - Dr Alan Mandell, DC

Another way in which extra virgin olive oil may lower the risk of cardiovascular disease is because of its anti-inflammatory effects. In fact, data shows that 3.4 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil has the anti-inflammatory equivalent of one-tenth of a dose of ibuprofen. Due to its anti-inflammatory benefits, olive oil may lower the risk of other health problems as well, although more research is needed.

Why Extra Virgin Olive Oil is Healthiest?

The antioxidants in olive oil are called phenols and they likely explain many of its health benefits. The quantity of phenols is higher in extra virgin olive oil relative to olive oil since standard olive oil is more refined. Therefore, it’s best to buy unrefined, extra virgin olive oil to maximize its health benefits. Be sure to choose a brand in a dark bottle that blocks light since light can degrade the quality of extra virgin olive oil. Always store olive oil in a cool, dry place.

Do your research before buying. There’s a lot of olive oil fraud out there. Manufacturers dilute genuine extra-virgin olive oil with cheaper oils, like soybean oil, to cut costs. So, you get a less healthy oil that may lack the desired health benefits. The California Olive Oil Council has a certification program that guarantees extra virgin olive oil that contains their seal is legitimate. So, look for a seal of authenticity.

A diet that contains extra virgin olive oil may lower the risk of cardiovascular disease by reigning in inflammation and by improving how HDL-cholesterol functions. Still, research in this area is in its early stages. The best approach is to consume all fats is in moderation, but when you’re choosing a source of fat for cooking or making a salad dressing, olive oil is a heart-healthy option.

You have probably heard of plaque on your teeth, but your body also has another type of plaque. This is plaque that builds up in arteries - the blood vessels that carry oxygen and nutrient-rich blood from your heart to your body’s tissues.

Plaque in the arteries is a fatty, waxy substance that forms deposits in the artery wall. These deposits can narrow the artery and reduce blood flow. This is called atherosclerosis or “hardening of the arteries.” Plaques can also rupture and create a blood clot at the rupture site, as your body’s natural processes try to repair the “injury.” The blood clot can cut off blood flow through the artery and starve your body’s tissues of oxygen and nutrients. Therefore, a ruptured plaque can be serious: It is the most common cause of a heart attack or stroke.

What Is Plaque Made Of?

Arterial plaque is made up of materials that enter the artery wall from the bloodstream. These include fat, cholesterol, calcium, waste products from cells and a clotting agent called fibrin. This is why your physician tests your cholesterol levels. High levels of “bad cholesterol” (low-density lipoprotein, or LDL cholesterol) can indicate a higher risk of plaque build-up.

What Causes Plaque in Arteries?

Plaque build-up in arteries is, unfortunately, a natural part of living. Even children and adolescents have early evidence of the process.

However, diet and other lifestyle factors play an important role. High blood pressure, high LDL cholesterol and smoking can all worsen atherosclerosis. High blood pressure and the toxins in tobacco products damage the smooth inner lining of the artery, called the endothelium. These and other causes of inflammation of the artery lining contribute to cholesterol and other materials embedding in the artery wall to form plaques.

Additionally, some people are predisposed to having atherosclerosis. A genetic condition called familial hypercholesterolemia causes some people to have abnormally very high LDL cholesterol levels in the bloodstream.

Is All Plaque Dangerous?

Plaque builds up in arteries throughout the body, but not all plaques are equally dangerous. You might hear the term vulnerable plaque. This refers to a soft plaque that has a thin, fibrous cap. This plaque is more likely to rupture, causing a blood clot to form at the rupture site, cutting off or restricting blood flow, and potentially causing a heart attack or stroke

Can Plaque Build-Up in the Arteries Be Stopped?

Plaque formation in arteries can be slowed. It may also be possible to reverse some of the damage, but mostly, it’s a process of controlling further damage. Unlike going to the dentist and having plaque removed from your teeth, this is not so easily done in the blood vessels. But improvements can be made. Work with your physician to identify if you are at risk of, or already have, heart disease from atherosclerosis. This may require a physical exam with personal and family medical histories, lab tests and other diagnostic tests. You may be recommended to take medications to control high blood pressure and to lower cholesterol levels. Eating a heart-healthy diet, quitting smoking and getting regular exercise will also help your arteries be their healthiest.

Which artery is the most common to have blockage?

Every 40 seconds, someone in the United States has a heart attack. And each year nearly 800,000 Americans will suffer a heart attack. In fact, heart disease is the leading cause of deaths in Americans.

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the main cause of heart attack, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). A less common cause is a severe spasm, or sudden contraction, of a coronary artery that can stop blood flow to the heart muscle.

A heart attack, also called a myocardial infarction, happens when a part of the heart muscle doesn’t get enough blood. The more time that passes without treatment to restore blood flow, the greater the damage to the heart muscle.

About 47% of people suffer a fatal heart attack outside the hospital setting, which suggests they may have ignored their early warning signs and symptoms such as chest pain, discomfort in the back or arms, nausea and shortness of breath.

Niess_Gary_Head_Web

Dr. Gary Niess

“The ‘widow-maker’ is a lay term for a particular type of heart attack,” said Dr. Gary Niess, an interventional cardiologist with Novant Health Heart & Vascular Institute. “Any artery closure can cause a heart attack where the heart muscle dies, but the widow-maker has a higher rate of mortality.”

The widow-maker is a massive heart attack that occurs when the left anterior descending artery (LAD) is totally or almost completely blocked. The critical blockage in the artery stops, usually a blood clot, stops all the blood flow to the left side of the heart, causing the heart to stop beating normally. When this happens, patients may go into cardiac arrest. Statistically, Niess said widow-makers are more likely to lead to brain injury and irregular heartbeat.

Although blockages can occur in other arteries leading to the heart, the LAD artery is where most blockages occur. The extent of the blockage can vary widely from 1% to 100%.

“Many people can survive widow-makers if we get them treatment right away,” Niess said. And the patient’s blocked artery can often be reopened with a stent, he added.

Like other types of heart attack, this one is largely preventable. “It may sound trite, but don’t smoke, eat right, exercise, treat your cholesterol and high blood pressure,” Niess said.

The Best Foods to Clean Out Your Arteries

Risk factors for heart disease

Two of the most serious causes of heart disease in America are diabetes and obesity, according to the CDC. “Diabetes affects the heart muscle like smoking two to three packs of cigarettes a day,” he said.

Despite its name, the widow-maker doesn’t discriminate. Women are susceptible, too. “In this case, it’s a widower-maker,” Niess said.

Several other medical conditions and lifestyle choices can also put people at a higher risk for heart disease, including:

High blood pressure.

High blood cholesterol.

Smoking.

Being overweight or obese.

Having an unhealthy diet.

Physical activity.

Excessive alcohol use.

Symptoms of a heart attack

The chances for surviving heart attack are higher if you recognize the warning signs and seek prompt attention. Major symptoms include:

· Chest pain.

· Aches and pain in the arms, back, neck or jaw.

· Shortness of breath.

· Nausea.

· Dizziness.

· Cold sweats.

The most common symptoms vary depending on your sex. Both men and women will often complain of chest pain when experiencing a heart attack, but some women are more likely to experience other symptoms such as shortness of breath or nausea.

If you suspect you are having a heart attack, call 9-1-1 immediately. Do not drive yourself to the hospital. Cardiac arrest en route by car is often fatal. Arriving by ambulance offers a much better chance of survival.

Does Black coffee clear arteries?

Drinking a few cups of coffee a day may help people avoid clogged arteries - a known risk factor for heart disease - Korean researchers believe.

They studied more than 25,000 male and female employees who underwent routine health checks at their workplace.

Employees who drank a moderate amount of coffee - three to five cups a day - were less likely to have early signs of heart disease on their medical scans.

The findings reopen the debate about whether coffee is good for the heart.

Heart effects

There is a lot of confusion when it comes to the effect of coffee on heart health.

angiogram showing an obstructed coronary artery

IMAGE SOURCE,SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY

Image caption,

In heart disease, the arteries supplying the heart muscle can become blocked

Some studies have linked consumption to heart risk factors, such as raised cholesterol or blood pressure, while others suggest the beverage may offer some heart protection.

But there is no conclusive evidence either way, and the latest research from South Korea, which is published in the journal Heart, only adds to the discussion.

Unexplained link

In the study, the researchers used medical scans to assess heart health.

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Protocol for Calcified Plaque in Your Arteries – Atherosclerosis – Dr.Berg

Specifically, they were looking for any disease of the arteries supplying the heart - the coronary arteries.

In coronary heart disease, the coronary arteries become clogged by the gradual build-up of fatty material within their walls.

The scan the researchers used looks for tiny deposits of calcium in the walls of the coronary arteries to provide an early clue that this disease process may be occurring.

None of the employees included in the Korean study had outward signs of heart disease, but more than one in 10 of them were found to have visible calcium deposits on their scans.

The researchers then compared the scan results with the employees' self-reported daily coffee consumption, while taking into account other potential heart risk factors such as smoking, exercise and family history of heart problems.

People who drank a few cups of coffee a day were less likely to have calcium deposits in their coronary arteries than people who drank more than this or no coffee at all.

The study authors say more research is needed to confirm and explain the link.

Coffee contains the stimulant caffeine, as well as numerous other compounds, but it's not clear if these might cause good or harm to the body.

Victoria Taylor of the British Heart Foundation said: "While this study does highlight a potential link between coffee consumption and lower risk of developing clogged arteries, more research is needed to confirm these findings and understand what the reason is for the association.

"We need to take care when generalising these results because it is based on the South Korean population, who have different diet and lifestyle habits to people in the UK."

line

How much caffeine?

coffee beans

IMAGE SOURCE,PHILLIP HAYSON/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY

In the US, experts say up to 400mg a day appears to be safe for most healthy adults

There is no recommended daily upper limit for caffeine consumption in the UK, except for pregnant women

If you're pregnant, you should limit the amount of caffeine you have to 200mg a day - equivalent to two mugs of instant coffee

one mug of instant coffee: 100mg

one mug of filter coffee: 140mg

one mug of tea: 75mg

one can of cola: 40mg

an espresso contains about 50mg of caffeine

Coffee shop caffeine levels vary widely

What food cleans arteries and veins?

It’s possible that clogged arteries can cause erectile dysfunction, but there are foods that unclog arteries that you may not be aware of. Some foods may be more supportive than others, but what are the best foods to clean arteries?

Clogged arteries, also known as atherosclerosis, occurs when fatty deposits build up along the artery walls. This accumulation of fatty deposits causes the arteries to narrow, which negatively impacts blood circulation to the heart and other areas of the body.

Atherosclerosis is the most common cause of heart disease. In Western countries, clogged arteries are responsible for more than half of all deaths.

Before the condition becomes fatal, clogged arteries can lead to all sorts of health conditions, including erectile dysfunction (ED), high blood pressure, and poor heart health. The good news is that clogged arteries are not only preventable, there are effective ways to unclog the arteries so that you can improve your cardiovascular health.

Understanding How Arteries Become Clogged

There is no single cause of clogged arteries. More often than not, people have several risk factors that increase their risk of developing the condition. Some of the most common risk factors include:

High blood pressure

Obesity

Poor diet

Sedentary lifestyle

Cigarette smoking

Diabetes

Genetics/family history

If you have any of these risk factors, it’s important to make the necessary changes to lessen your risk of clogged arteries. Eating a healthy diet, quitting smoking, losing weight, and moving more throughout the day can all have a profound impact on your cardiovascular health.

How I Reversed 20 years of Arterial Plaque

The Link Between Clogged Arteries and Erectile Dysfunction (ED)

Men who have clogged arteries not only face an increased risk of poor heart health, but are also more likely to experience erectile dysfunction. In fact, there is a strong connection between erectile dysfunction and heart disease. There is a growing amount of evidence that shows a connection between erectile dysfunction and a clogged or multiple clogged arteries in the penile arteries.

A man achieves an erection when blood travels to the penile arteries. These arteries widen and allow blood to travel and stay in the penis. But a blockage in the penile arteries can lessen or completely restrict the ability for blood to move into the penis. This can lead to partial erections or the inability to get an erection at all.

Clogged arteries in the penis may be a sign of undiagnosed heart disease. When the penile arteries are clogged, there’s an increased chance that there are clogged arteries in other areas of the body.

Remember, blood is pumped throughout the body from the heart through the arteries. When arteries are blocked by plaque or fatty deposits, the condition can make it impossible for blood to travel to the penis. This then leads to erectile dysfunction, also known as ED.

For men, ED not only ruins their confidence, it’s also a telltale sign that there’s a serious underlying health condition. Ignoring clogged arteries not only impacts sexual function, it also greatly increases the risk of a fatal heart attack or stroke.

Unclogging the penile and other arteries in the body requires some important lifestyle changes. If you’re a smoker, recognize that ED is more likely in men who smoke and work to quit. If you’re overweight or obese, focus on losing weight. If you’ve been diagnosed with high blood pressure or diabetes, ensure that these conditions are properly managed.

Most importantly, take some time to clean up your diet. Improving your eating habits by limiting processed foods can have a huge impact on your heart health. Some foods may even unclog the arteries, which can resolve your ED once and for all.

Top Foods That Unclog Arteries Naturally

best foods to unclog arteries naturally berries support heart health

Eating a diet that mostly consists of healthy, wholesome foods offers all sorts of benefits. One benefit that many people don’t realize is that certain foods may actually unclog the arteries naturally. This protects your cardiovascular and heart health, and decreases the risk of some of today’s most deadly conditions.

Here are some of the best foods that unclog arteries to eat in order to prevent or clean clogged arteries.

Berries

Strawberries, blueberries, cranberries, blackberries, and raspberries are best. Studies show that berries reduce inflammation, support heart health, and improve oxidation.

Tomatoes

Tomatoes contain lycopene, which reduces inflammation, improves good cholesterol levels, and reduces the risk of heart disease.

Onions

Onions may protect the arteries thanks to their sulfur content. Sulfur prevents blood vessel inflammation and increases nitric oxide levels.

Citrus Fruits

Citrus fruits are chock full of vitamins, minerals, and flavonoids. Flavonoids decrease inflammation and protect the body against free radicals that oxidize bad cholesterol.

Cruciferous Vegetables

Vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage decrease the risk of clogged arteries by lowering carotid intima-media thickness. These vegetables also reduce arterial calcification.

Leafy Greens

Kale, arugula, spinach, and lettuces are a good source of nitrates, which reduce inflammation and improve blood vessel function. They also contain high levels of potassium, which may prevent vascular calcification.

Beans

These little bites are a fiber-rich food, which help to balance cholesterol levels. Beans may reduce blood pressure and improve artery function.

Fish

unclog arteries through a healthy diet including fish

Most fish are loaded with omega-3s, which reduces the expression of cellular adhesion molecules. These are proteins that allow cells to stick to their surroundings, such as artery walls.

Other foods to add to your diet to prevent clogged arteries include:

Avocados

Oats

Nuts and seeds

Olive oil

Dark chocolate

Spices like turmeric ginger, cinnamon, pepper, and chili

Things to Know About Erectile Dysfunction Outside of Diet

Aside from knowing the best foods to clean the arteries, it’s also important to understand the science behind ED. Eating a healthy diet is only the first step in effectively treating the inability to get or maintain an erection.

1 GLASS OF THIS JUICE IN THE MORNING...REVERSE CLOGGED ARTERIES & LOWER HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE

While it may seem like it, you aren’t alone if you’ve been diagnosed with ED or are considering ED treatment for erectile dysfunction. In fact, around 50% of men in the U.S. between the ages of 40 and 70 will experience some form of erectile dysfunction. It should come as no surprise that a majority of these cases are caused by clogged arteries.

It’s also important to note that ED isn’t a condition that only affects older men. In fact, around 25% of men under the age of 40 have reported severe symptoms of ED. While these men may be healthier than older men, they tend to be at a higher risk of ED because of smoking and illegal drug use.

But what’s most alarming about ED is that most men don’t seek out erectile dysfunction clinics for treatment of the condition. Many men are ashamed and don’t want to own up to the fact that they’re experiencing problems in the bedroom.

Eat a Healthy Diet, Unclog Your Arteries and Support Erectile Dysfunction Therapy

By eating a diet that includes foods that unclog the arteries, you will better protect your cardiovascular health while also offering other benefits. Get your daily dose by drinking a berry and leafy greens smoothie, or by making a filling salad with leafy greens, onions, tomatoes, and flax seeds for some crunch.

The trained medical professionals at Prestige Men’s Medical Center can provide a customized healthy living program to best support your overall health. We will tailor the plan to your unique needs, history, and circumstances so you can get the best results possible. Give us a call today to set an appointment with our expert medical staff about premature ejaculation treatment, low testosterone therapy, and ED and more.

Does lemon juice clean arteries?

The other day my dad went to see his doctor. My dad was scheduled to receive results from his latest blood test, but they didn’t turn out as he had hoped. The doctor told my dad that he had high cholesterol. A previous test had revealed he also had high blood pressure. High cholesterol and high blood pressure are contributors toward clogged arteries. Your arteries are blood vessels responsible for the transportation of oxygen-rich blood from the heart to the rest of the body. A normal artery will be strong, flexible, and elastic. On the other hand, progressive clogging of the arteries is a serious condition called atherosclerosis. It is the major cause of cardiovascular disease, which includes peripheral vascular disease, strokes, and heart attacks. The symptoms of clogged arteries likely depend on the type of arteries being affected.

– Carotid arteries: When you have clogged arteries in your brain, it is a condition called carotid artery disease. Plaque will block or narrow the carotid arteries, and signs of a stroke may be present. Symptoms include breathing problems, sudden weakness, confusion, severe headaches, loss of consciousness, blurry vision, trouble with speech, paralysis, trouble walking,dizziness, unexplained falls, and loss of coordination or balance.

– Coronary arteries: When the arteries in the heart are clogged, it is called coronary heart disease, or CHD. In this case, plaque will block or narrow the coronary arteries when the heart muscle fails to get enough blood. As a result, chest pain, known as angina will occur. It feels like pressure is squeezing your chest, but you may also feel it in your jaw, neck, arms, shoulders, or back. Angina also sometimes feels like indigestion. Emotional stress will also often trigger angina. Other CHD symptoms include heartbeat problems and shortness of breath.

– Renal arteries: Chronic kidney disease will develop from clogged renal arteries in the kidneys. Over time, chronic kidney disease can slowly impair kidney function. There are no symptoms early in kidney disease; however, as the condition worsens, it can lead to loss of appetite, nausea, tiredness, concentration problems, numbness or itchiness, and swelling in the feet or hands. Other symptoms include kidney failure and high blood pressure.

– Peripheral arteries: Peripheral arterial disease will result from plaque buildup in the arms, legs, and pelvis. These arteries are known as peripheral arteries, and if they are blocked or narrowed, you may experience pain or numbness. On occasion, there are also dangerous infections.

What Causes Artery Blockage? Atherosclerosis is often referred to as the hardening, thickening, and narrowing of the arteries. A thin layer of endothelial cells that help keep the inside of your arteries smooth and toned lines your arteries. This process allows your blood to keep flowing. However, several factors will damage the endothelial cells, including platelet cells, increased homocysteine levels, and free radicals from toxins and antioxidant deficiency. Also, vitamin C deficiency and homocysteine will damage the arteries from degradation of a gel-like substance called the ground substance. It is found between the cells and helps maintain the integrity of the epithelial cell barrier. The plaque will accumulate when various substances are unable to migrate out of the atherosclerotic lesion. These substances include fat, calcium, toxic metals, cellular waste, and cholesterol such as LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol. A material involved in blood clotting called fibrin is also accumulated when arteries are clogged. While the exact cause of clogged arteries is a mystery, evidence shows that atherosclerosis is a complex and slow condition that may begin in childhood and develop as you get older. Certain factors may damage your arteries’ inner layers, including smoking, high blood pressure, type 1 diabetes, type 2 diabetes, and insulin resistance.

Other contributing factors of atherosclerosis include lack of exercise, being overweight, a type-A personality, heavy metal exposure, elevated triglycerides, and chronic inflammation from diseases, infections, lupus, or arthritis. High cholesterol and fats in the blood are also possible causes of atherosclerosis. On rare occasions, genetics may also play a factor with elevated production of cholesterol associated with atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis can also be caused by oxidative stress through depletion of vitamin C or other antioxidants. Nutrient deficiencies or imbalances may also lead to atherosclerosis. They may include magnesium, potassium, fiber, antioxidants, and methyl donators. Dietary factors also include a diet high in sugar, processed starches, and damaged fats from overheating oils.

Want to know how to unclog your arteries and reverse atherosclerosis? Your doctor may prescribe cholesterol-lowering drugs like statins drugs, or beta-blockers that lower blood pressure. These will help slow the progression of plaque buildup. However, there are also plenty of well-researched foods that can prevent and help unclog your arteries naturally instead:

A CUP A DAY...CLEAR CLOGGED ARTERIES AND HEART - Dr Alan Mandell, DC

Curcumin (in Turmeric) is a popular spice used in Indian and Ayurvedic cooking, but its true benefit comes from one active ingredient. The primary polyphenol in turmeric called curcumin has long been known for its cardioprotective effects. Turmeric extract is thought to reduce LDL cholesterol and the buildup of plaque in the arteries. In a study published in the journal Molecular Nutrition & Food Research, researchers found that turmeric could reduce cholesterol and suppress early atherosclerotic lesions better than the cholesterol-lowering drug lovastatin. Also, a 2006 study on mice suggested that curcumin can help prevent artery damage associated with carotid artery blockage.

Garlic is also considered one of the better foods that unclog your arteries. Studies have found that garlic can help prevent heart disease, lower blood pressure, and slow down atherosclerosis. In a study published in the journal Atherosclerosis in 1999, researchers found that garlic could prevent plaque buildup in the arteries. A review published in the journal Nutrition in 1997 found that clinical trials on garlic had positive effects in the prevention and treatment of atherosclerosis. Another study from 1999 also found that garlic can reduce the risk of stroke and heart attack by more than 50%. Garlic is thought to help against strokes and heart attacks since garlic acts as a blood thinner.

Ginger has incredible anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative effects. Ginger contains heart-protective compounds like shogaols and gingerols, which can effectively prevent plaque buildup and unclog arteries by reducing total cholesterol. According to a study published in the Journal of Nutrition in 2000, researchers found that ginger extract could reduce aortic atherosclerotic lesion areas, cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood, LDL-linked fat peroxides, and LDL aggregation.

Cayenne pepper: Something spicy can also help unclog your arteries. The compound capsaicin found in cayenne pepper can help reduce LDL cholesterol in the blood. Cayenne pepper can also lower your risk of stroke and heart attack, and improve blood circulation. Also, highly-active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) with HIV protease inhibitor ritonavir is associated with accelerating atherosclerosis and pulmonary artery hypertension. A study published in 2009 found that capsaicin could help prevent pulmonary and vascular complications associated with HAART drugs.

Adding lemon juice in your morning water is a healthy habit and good for your heart. Lemon is known to reduce blood cholesterol levels, and it helps the arteries by preventing oxidative damage. Lemons are also a great source of the potent antioxidant vitamin C. High doses of vitamin C have been found to strengthen arteries, reduce total cholesterol, increase high-density lipoprotein (HDL), inhibit platelet aggregation, and reduce inflammation.

Cinnamon can help reduce many risk factors associated with atherosclerosis and heart disease. A 2003 study published in the journal Diabetes Care in 2003 found that either one gram, three grams, or six grams of cinnamon daily can lower glucose, triglycerides, LDL cholesterol, and total cholesterol in type 2 diabetics. The study observed 60 diabetics for a 40-day period. Researchers concluded that cinnamon can help reduce the risk factors of cardiovascular disease.

Ground flaxseed: Flaxseed is another important food for heart health. Ground flaxseed can help unclog arteries with high fiber. It is also a good source of alpha-linolenic acide, an omega-3 acid that can lower inflammation and blood pressure. In turn, arteries will not become clogged. In a 1997 study published in the journal Atherosclerosis, researchers found that flaxseed lowered the development of aortic atherosclerosis by 46% in rabbits. Researchers concluded that modest flaxseed supplementation is an effective treatment for reducing hypercholesterolemic atherosclerosis. Also, it is a good idea to grind your flaxseed. They contain greater amounts of omega-3. On the other hand, the polyunsaturated fats in pre-ground flaxseeds will break down over longer exposure to oxygen, and it can become rancid.

Fermented cabbage (kimchi) is a popular probiotic Korean recipe that includes fermented cabbage and hot peppers that has been found to slow the atherosclerotic process. A 2007 study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found that an active compound in kimchi called 3-94-hydroxy-3,5-dimethoxyphenyl can help prevent the development of aortic atherosclerosis in high-cholesterol-fed rabbits. Fermented cabbage has also found to degrade toxic chemicals, including bisphenol A and the insecticide chlorpyrifos.

Sesame seed can help unclog a blocked artery. Evidence shows that they can help prevent the progression of atherosclerosis. A three-month animal study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food in 2006 suggests that the fatty acid content in sesame oil could effectively inhibit atherosclerosis lesion formation, blood cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL cholesterol levels in mice.

Pomegranate juice: The high antioxidant content and punicic acid in pomegranate juice are thought to help decrease plaque formation, unclog arteries, and fight atherosclerosis. Pomegranate juice also contains important nutrients for heart health, such as magnesium and selenium. In a randomized, double-blind, parallel study published in the American Journal of Cardiology in 2009, researchers found that drinking 240 milliliters (ml) of pomegranate juice daily for up to 18 months slowed the progression of carotid artery disease for patients at risk of coronary health disease.

Other foods that unclog your arteries include asparagus, avocado, broccoli, chia seeds, fenugreek seeds, and coconut oil. Dietary supplements and nutrients that can help with atherosclerosis include methyl donators like vitamin B6, choline, folic acid, and vitamin B12, as well as antioxidants, such as vitamin C, vitamin E, lutein, zeaxanthin, grape seed extract, and pine bark extract. Other important nutrients include L-arginine, vitamin D, vitamin B3, fish oils, and coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10). Nutritional chelation is also a high-dose nutrient technique that supports plaque removal. Other supplements include magnesium, selenium, resveratrol, copper, chromium, and trimethylglycine. Finally, exercise is considered just as important as dieting for unclogging arteries. Exercises that reduce stress are important, including meditation, yoga, tai chi, and qigong. Aerobic exercises, gardening, walking, or running can also help combat atherosclerosis. Exercise for about 30 minutes daily for five days a week.

Does stress cause plaque in arteries?

Stress Can Increase Your Risk for Heart Disease

Stress is a normal part of life. Stress can come from physical causes like not getting enough sleep or having an illness. Another cause for stress can be emotional, like worrying about not having enough money or the death of a loved one. Stress can also come from less dramatic causes, like everyday obligations and pressures, that make you feel that you're not in control.

Unclog Arteries...1 Glass in the Morning Will Be Rewarding - Dr Mandell

Your body’s response to stress is supposed to protect you. But, if it's constant, it can harm you. The hormone cortisol is released in response to stress. Studies suggest that the high levels of cortisol from long-term stress can increase blood cholesterol, triglycerides, blood sugar, and blood pressure. These are common risk factors for heart disease. This stress can also cause changes that promote the buildup of plaque deposits in the arteries.

Even minor stress can trigger heart problems like poor blood flow to the heart muscle. This is a condition in which the heart doesn't get enough blood or oxygen. And, long-term stress can affect how the blood clots. This makes the blood stickier and increases the risk of stroke. 

In addition, people who have a lot of stress may smoke or choose other unhealthy ways to deal with stress.

Common responses to stress include: 

Aches and pains

Decreased energy and sleep

Feelings of anxiety, anger, and depression

Impatience

Forgetfulness

People respond to stressful situations differently. Some react strongly to a situation. Others are relaxed and unconcerned. Luckily, you can decrease the effect of stress on your body. First, identify situations that cause stress. Although difficult, try to control your mental and physical reactions to these stressful situations. Try the following to help manage stress and keep your heart healthy.

Get plenty of exercise

Exercise can help counteract the harmful effects of stress. For heart health, aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week. This can be done in 30 to 40 minute sessions, 4 to 5 days a week. Exercise can help to improve cardiovascular health by controlling weight, improving cholesterol , and lowering blood pressure. Exercise has another benefit that lowers stress. People who exercise have a reduced physical response to stress. Their blood pressure and heart rates don't go up as high as people under stress who don't exercise.

Regular exercise can also reduce the risk of depression, another risk factor for heart disease.

Need exercise motivation? Get a pedometer and try to walk 10,000 to 12,000 steps per day. This may also help you maintain your weight. With a pedometer, you get instant feedback and credit for all you do, such as taking the stairs instead of the elevator.

Build a strong support system

Research suggests that having a strong support network, like being married, having someone you can talk to and trust, or belonging to organizations or a religion, can reduce your stress level and your risk of heart disease.

If you already have heart disease, this same network can help reduce your risk for heart attack. Having at least one person you can rely on takes a heavy burden off you and provides comfort.

A strong support system helps you take better care of yourself, too. Research shows that a lack of social support increases the chance of engaging in unhealthy behaviors like smoking, eating a high-fat diet, and drinking too much alcohol.

Get treatment for constant depression or anxiety

Depression and anxiety can increase your risk of dying from heart disease, if you already have it.

Research suggests that long-term anxiety or emotional stress can increase the risk for sudden cardiac death. To reduce your anxiety level, try activities that reduce stress like yoga, walking meditation, traditional meditation, guided imagery, or other methods. Look for classes in your area. Alcohol, tobacco, and caffeine can increase feelings of anxiety and increase your stress and blood pressure. Cutting back or quitting these substances may help decrease your anxiety and stress. Talk with your provider if you have feelings of depression or anxiety and ask about medicines that can help.

Reduce work stress

Studies show having a demanding job that offers you few opportunities to make decisions or provides little reward can increase your risk for heart disease. Stress at work becomes even more of a problem when you don't have a strong support system or you have long-term anxiety.

If you can't find a different position within your company, do what you can to gain control over your environment. Try to take some time every day away from work. Do something that is relaxing and that you enjoy. It may be reading, walking, or deep breathing. Your employer may offer and employee assistance program (EAP) to help you manage stress and anxiety. A counselor can help recommend strategies to help you lower your work-related stress.

If you think you're at an increased risk for heart disease because of stress in your life, talk with your healthcare provider. They may recommend counseling, classes, or other programs to help you lower your stress level and your risk for heart disease.

Does coffee cause plaque in arteries?

For those of us who love our morning coffee – or our energy drink before heading to the gym – the thought that it could be harming our cardiovascular system is not something we want to consider. But what science and medicine now tell us about caffeine is not all bad, though we do need to monitor our intake.

Detox your Arteries with this Drink | Dr. Hansaji Yogendra

The US Food and Drug Administration estimates that the average amount of caffeine consumed in the U.S. daily is equal to 2-4 cups of coffee per person.  Many studies indicate that this level of consumption – considered to be moderate – has a variety of health benefits.  But other studies claim that even as little as 1-2 cups of coffee per day or the equivalent, can negatively impact our health.  So, who is right?  And what should we believe?

Let’s look more closely at this ever-popular stimulant and analyze the potential health benefits, as well as the negative side effects, of caffeine consumption.

What Is Caffeine?

Caffeine is a product found naturally in raw coffee beans, cocoa, kola nuts, guarana berries and tea leaves that can diminish feelings of tiredness and improve concentration.  Found in coffee, tea, chocolate, energy drinks, soft drinks and some cold and allergy medicines, its effects start as soon as 15 minutes after it’s consumed and can last up to 6 hours.

The effects can vary greatly person to person based on their lifestyle and their genetics, which may be the reason for the mixed messages surrounding whether it is good for us or bad for us.

Potential Health Benefits of Caffeine

Some studies have shown that a few cups of coffee a day – or the equivalent – can reduce the risk of liver, mouth and throat cancer.  Others studies have documented caffeine’s positive effects on the brain, including a reduction in suicide risk, a boost to long-term memory, and a decreased risk of diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.  Caffeine can also boost sports performance in athletes, particularly in team sports like soccer, football or rugby.

Potential Negative Effects of Caffeine

In contrast to the possible health benefits of caffeine, it does have some negative effects on the cardiovascular system especially when very large amounts of it are consumed daily. Caffeine can raise your heart rate and cause palpitations and extra heartbeats.  And using large amounts of it for long periods can increase your risk of having a heart attack.  This is particularly true in people who have diabetes.

Blood pressure can go up significantly after caffeine use because it seems to block a hormone our bodies produce to keep our arteries open wide.  When caffeine makes the blood vessels in our bodies narrower, this leaves less room for blood flow which, in turn, raises blood pressure.  The blood vessels supplying blood to the brain can also narrow as much as 27% after caffeine intake which can slow down our ability to think and perform mental tasks.

Coffee drinking is also linked to higher levels of cholesterol, especially in people who drink coffee that is processed at very high temperatures like espresso.  And finally, caffeine has been shown to make arteries stiff which contributes to coronary artery disease or hardening of the arteries as we age.

Conclusions

With some information that tells us caffeine has positive effects on our health and other information saying it can harm us, what approach is best?  We recommend that you try to strike a balance.

For most of us, moderate amounts of caffeine can have mostly positive effects.  So, you don’t have to give up your morning coffee, but limit it – or your other sources of caffeine – to the equivalent of 2-3 cups per day.  Of course, lower levels are recommended for pregnant women who are usually advised by their physicians to limit caffeine to 12 ounces of coffee or other caffeinated beverages per day.

If you have diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol or are at risk of other disorders of the cardiovascular system such as coronary artery disease, heart failure, or abnormal heart rhythms, it is best to try to avoid caffeine and substitute non-caffeinated, herbal coffees or teas.

What is the main cause of plaque buildup in arteries?

What is coronary artery disease? A Mayo Clinic cardiologist explains.

Stephen Kopecky, M.D., talks about the risk factors, symptoms and treatment of coronary artery disease (CAD). Learn how lifestyle changes can lower your risk.

Show transcript for video What is coronary artery disease? A Mayo Clinic cardiologist explains.

Coronary artery disease develops when the major blood vessels that supply your heart become damaged or diseased. Cholesterol-containing deposits (plaques) in your coronary arteries and inflammation are usually to blame for coronary artery disease.

The coronary arteries supply blood, oxygen and nutrients to your heart. A buildup of plaque can narrow these arteries, decreasing blood flow to your heart. Eventually, the reduced blood flow may cause chest pain (angina), shortness of breath, or other coronary artery disease signs and symptoms. A complete blockage can cause a heart attack.

Because coronary artery disease often develops over decades, you might not notice a problem until you have a significant blockage or a heart attack. But you can take steps to prevent and treat coronary artery disease. A healthy lifestyle can make a big impact.

Symptoms

If your coronary arteries narrow, they can't supply enough oxygen-rich blood to your heart — especially when it's beating hard, such as during exercise. At first, the decreased blood flow may not cause any symptoms. As plaque continues to build up in your coronary arteries, however, you may develop the following coronary artery disease signs and symptoms:

Chest pain (angina). You may feel pressure or tightness in your chest, as if someone were standing on your chest. This pain, called angina, usually occurs on the middle or left side of the chest. Angina is generally triggered by physical or emotional stress. The pain usually goes away within minutes after stopping the stressful activity. In some people, especially women, the pain may be brief or sharp and felt in the neck, arm or back.

Shortness of breath. If your heart can't pump enough blood to meet your body's needs, you may develop shortness of breath or extreme fatigue with activity.

Heart attack. A completely blocked coronary artery will cause a heart attack. The classic signs and symptoms of a heart attack include crushing pressure in your chest and pain in your shoulder or arm, sometimes with shortness of breath and sweating.

How to reverse ARTERIAL PLAQUE buildup (part 1)

Women are somewhat more likely than men are to have less typical signs and symptoms of a heart attack, such as neck or jaw pain. And they may have other symptoms such as shortness of breath, fatigue and nausea.

Sometimes a heart attack occurs without any apparent signs or symptoms.

When to see a doctor

If you think you're having a heart attack, immediately call 911 or your local emergency number. If you don't have access to emergency medical services, have someone drive you to the nearest hospital. Drive yourself only as a last option.

If you have risk factors for coronary artery disease — such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, tobacco use, diabetes, obesity a strong family history of heart disease — talk to your doctor. Your doctor may want to test you for coronary artery disease, especially if you have signs or symptoms of narrowed arteries.

Request an Appointment at Mayo Clinic

Causes

Development of atherosclerosis

Development of atherosclerosisOpen pop-up dialog box

Coronary artery disease is thought to begin with damage or injury to the inner layer of a coronary artery, sometimes as early as childhood. The damage may be caused by various factors, including:

Smoking

High blood pressure

High cholesterol

Diabetes or insulin resistance

Not being active (sedentary lifestyle)

Once the inner wall of an artery is damaged, fatty deposits (plaque) made of cholesterol and other cellular waste products tend to collect at the site of injury. This process is called atherosclerosis. If the plaque surface breaks or ruptures, blood cells called platelets clump together at the site to try to repair the artery. This clump can block the artery, leading to a heart attack.

Risk factors

Risk factors for coronary artery disease include:

Age. Getting older increases your risk of damaged and narrowed arteries.

Sex. Men are generally at greater risk of coronary artery disease. However, the risk for women increases after menopause.

Family history. A family history of heart disease is associated with a higher risk of coronary artery disease, especially if a close relative developed heart disease at an early age. Your risk is highest if your father or a brother was diagnosed with heart disease before age 55 or if your mother or a sister developed it before age 65.

Smoking. People who smoke have a significantly increased risk of heart disease. Breathing in secondhand smoke also increases a person's risk of coronary artery disease.

High blood pressure. Uncontrolled high blood pressure can result in hardening and thickening of your arteries, narrowing the channel through which blood can flow.

High blood cholesterol levels. High levels of cholesterol in your blood can increase the risk of formation of plaque and atherosclerosis. High cholesterol can be caused by a high level of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, known as the "bad" cholesterol. A low level of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, known as the "good" cholesterol, can also contribute to the development of atherosclerosis.

Diabetes. Diabetes is associated with an increased risk of coronary artery disease. Type 2 diabetes and coronary artery disease share similar risk factors, such as obesity and high blood pressure.

Overweight or obesity. Excess weight typically worsens other risk factors.

Physical inactivity. Lack of exercise also is associated with coronary artery disease and some of its risk factors, as well.

High stress. Unrelieved stress in your life may damage your arteries as well as worsen other risk factors for coronary artery disease.

Unhealthy diet. Eating too much food that has high amounts of saturated fat, trans fat, salt and sugar can increase your risk of coronary artery disease.

Risk factors often occur together and one may trigger another. For instance, obesity can lead to type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure. When grouped together, certain risk factors make you even more likely to develop coronary artery disease. For example, metabolic syndrome — a cluster of conditions that includes high blood pressure; high triglycerides; low HDL, or "good," cholesterol; high insulin levels and excess body fat around the waist — increases the risk of coronary artery disease.

Sometimes coronary artery disease develops without any classic risk factors. Researchers are studying other possible risk factors, including:

» Best Diet For Removing Calcium Deposits & Plaque Buildup From Your Blocked Arteries

Sleep apnea. This disorder causes you to repeatedly stop and start breathing while you're sleeping. Sudden drops in blood oxygen levels that occur during sleep apnea increase blood pressure and strain the cardiovascular system, possibly leading to coronary artery disease.

High-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP). This protein appears in higher-than-normal amounts when there's inflammation somewhere in your body. High hs-CRP levels may be a risk factor for heart disease. It's thought that as coronary arteries narrow, you'll have more hs-CRP in your blood.

High triglycerides. This is a type of fat (lipid) in your blood. High levels may raise the risk of coronary artery disease, especially for women.

Homocysteine. Homocysteine is an amino acid your body uses to make protein and to build and maintain tissue. But high levels of homocysteine may increase your risk of coronary artery disease.

Preeclampsia. This condition that can develop in women during pregnancy causes high blood pressure and a higher amount of protein in urine. It can lead to a higher risk of heart disease later in life.

Alcohol use. Heavy alcohol use can lead to heart muscle damage. It can also worsen other risk factors of coronary artery disease.

Autoimmune diseases. People who have conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus (and other inflammatory conditions) have an increased risk of atherosclerosis.

Complications

Coronary artery disease can lead to:

Chest pain (angina). When your coronary arteries narrow, your heart may not receive enough blood when demand is greatest — particularly during physical activity. This can cause chest pain (angina) or shortness of breath.

Heart attack. If a cholesterol plaque ruptures and a blood clot forms, complete blockage of your heart artery may trigger a heart attack. The lack of blood flow to your heart may damage your heart muscle. The amount of damage depends in part on how quickly you receive treatment.

Heart failure. If some areas of your heart are chronically deprived of oxygen and nutrients because of reduced blood flow, or if your heart has been damaged by a heart attack, your heart may become too weak to pump enough blood to meet your body's needs. This condition is known as heart failure.

Abnormal heart rhythm (arrhythmia). Inadequate blood supply to the heart or damage to heart tissue can interfere with your heart's electrical impulses, causing abnormal heart rhythms.

Prevention

The same lifestyle habits used to help treat coronary artery disease can also help prevent it. A healthy lifestyle can help keep your arteries strong and clear of plaque. To improve your heart health, follow these tips:

Quit smoking.

Control conditions such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes.

Stay physically active.

Eat a low-fat, low-salt diet that's rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains.

Maintain a healthy weight.

Reduce and manage stress.

Can you get rid of plaque on arteries?

High blood levels of cholesterol encourage the formation and growth of vascular plaques that put you at risk for heart attack and stroke. So, can we reduce plaque buildup? "Making plaque disappear is not possible, but we can shrink and stabilize it," says cardiologist Dr. Christopher Cannon, a Harvard Medical School professor.

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Plaque forms when cholesterol (above, in yellow) lodges in the wall of the artery.

Image: Thinkstock 

What causes plaque in arteries?

Plaque forms when cholesterol lodges in the wall of the artery. To fight back, the body sends white blood cells to trap the cholesterol, which then turn into foamy cells that ooze more fat and cause more inflammation. That triggers muscle cells in the artery wall to multiply and form a cap over the area. But the soft plaque beneath the cap is dangerous. "For example, if your blood pressure spikes, it puts pressure on the thin wall of the plaque, which can break open, form a clot, and cause a heart attack," says Dr. Cannon. About three of every four heart attacks occur when plaques rupture.

Larger plaques can block blood flow. But they are typically covered by thick, fibrous caps that can resist breaking apart. These are often treated by inserting a wire mesh tube (stent) near the blockage to widen the artery.

Treatment for plaque buildup

Doctors target smaller, unstable plaque. "If we have a 30% blockage in the artery from soft plaque, the goal is to try to suck out the cholesterol from the inside, so the plaque shrivels down to 15% and leaves nothing inside it," says Dr. Cannon.

Protect yourself from the damage of chronic inflammation.

Science has proven that chronic, low-grade inflammation can turn into a silent killer that contributes to cardiovas­cular disease, cancer, type 2 diabetes and other conditions. Get simple tips to fight inflammation and stay healthy -- from Harvard Medical School experts.

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View Protect yourself from the damage of chronic inflammation.

How do you get the cholesterol out of the plaque? By lowering levels of cholesterol in the blood, where it travels inside particles called lipoproteins. Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) deposits cholesterol into blood vessel walls. The drugs used most often to reduce LDL cholesterol levels are statins—such as atorvastatin (Lipitor) and rosuvastatin (Crestor). Statins block the liver enzyme that promotes cholesterol production. Another medication called ezetimibe (Zetia) may be added to inhibit the absorption of cholesterol in the digestive tract. "Shrinking plaques with strong statins has been seen when you get LDL below 70 (mg/dL)," says Dr. Cannon. Harvard Health Letter

Very intensive lifestyle changes have also been shown to shrink plaque. Dr. Cannon recommends that you:

Eat a Mediterranean diet.It can reduce heart disease risk by 30%. It is rich in olive oil, fruits, vegetables, nuts and fish; low in red or processed meats; and moderate in the amounts of cheese and wine you can consume.

Kick the habit.Smoking damages the lining of the arteries. Quitting can help raise HDL levels.

Exercise.Aerobic exercise can raise HDL, lower blood pressure, burn body fat, and lower blood sugar levels. Exercise combined with weight loss can also lower LDL levels. Aim for 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity exercise. 

Busting the cholesterol myth

Why you can't live without this tricky substance.

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Cholesterol is often vilified as the bad guy, but we need this waxy, fatty substance to make vitamin D, hormones, bile that aids digestion, and the coverings of our cells. The liver produces 75% of the body's cholesterol, but all cells have the ability to make it.

When cells need more cholesterol, the liver sends it via the bloodstream in packages made of cholesterol on the inside and protein on the outside. These cholesterol-laden particles are known as low-density lipoprotein, or LDL. Too much LDL in the blood can cause cholesterol to lodge in the artery walls and form plaques. That's why LDL is known as "bad" cholesterol.

Not surprisingly, high levels of cholesterol in the diet raise blood levels of LDL. But high levels of saturated fat and trans fat in the diet are even more important: they cause the liver to produce lots of LDL cholesterol and send it into the blood.

Whereas LDL particles deposit cholesterol into plaques of atherosclerosis, some high-density lipoprotein (HDL) particles help remove cholesterol from plaques. That's why it's often referred to as "good" cholesterol. How much HDL and LDL should you aim for? An HDL of 60 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) or greater is associated with a lower risk of heart disease. 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. Recent guidelines recommend that statins be prescribed regardless of the LDL level in people at high risk of heart attack because of cardiac risk factors (such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and smoking).  

what is plaque from arteries

What is atherosclerosis?

Atherosclerosis thickening or hardening of the arteries. It is caused by a buildup of plaque in the inner lining of an artery. 

Normal artery and artery with plaque buildup

 

Plaque is made up of deposits of fatty substances, cholesterol, cellular waste products, calcium, and fibrin. As it builds up in the arteries, the artery walls become thickened and stiff.

Atherosclerosis is a slow, progressive disease that may start as early as childhood. However, it can progress rapidly.

What causes atherosclerosis?

It's not clear exactly how atherosclerosis starts or what causes it. However, a gradual buildup of plaque or thickening due to inflammation occurs on the inside of the walls of the artery. This reduces blood flow and oxygen supply to the vital body organs and extremities.

What are the risk factors for atherosclerosis?

Risk factors for atherosclerosis, include:

High cholesterol and triglyceride levels

High blood pressure

Smoking

Type 1 diabetes

Obesity

Physical inactivity

High saturated fat diet

What are the symptoms of atherosclerosis?

Signs and symptoms of atherosclerosis may develop gradually, and may be few, as the plaque gradually builds up in the artery. Symptoms may also vary depending on the affected artery. However, when a major artery is blocked, signs and symptoms may be severe, such as those occurring with heart attack, stroke, or blood clot.

The symptoms of atherosclerosis may look like other heart conditions. See your healthcare provider for a diagnosis.

How is atherosclerosis diagnosed?

First, your doctor will do a complete medical history and physical exam. You may also have one or more of these tests:

Cardiac catheterization. With this procedure, a long thin tube (catheter) is passed into the coronary arteries. X-rays are taken after a dye is injected into an artery to locate the narrowing, blockages, and other abnormalities of specific arteries.

Doppler sonography. A special probe is used to direct sound waves into a blood vessel to evaluate blood flow. An audio receiver amplifies the sound of the blood moving though the vessel. Faintness or absence of sound may mean there is a blockage. This is used to identify narrowing of the blood vessels of the abdomen, neck, or legs.

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Blood pressure comparison. Comparing blood pressure measurements in the ankles and in the arms helps determine any constriction in blood flow. Significant differences may mean blood vessels are narrowed due to atherosclerosis.

MUGA/radionuclide angiography. This is a nuclear scan to see how the heart wall moves and how much blood is expelled with each heartbeat, while the person is at rest.

Thallium/myocardial perfusion scan. This is a nuclear scan given while the person is at rest or after exercise that may reveal areas of the heart muscle that are not getting enough blood.

Computerized tomography or CT. This is a type of X-ray test that can see if there is coronary calcification that may suggest a future heart problem. 

How is atherosclerosis treated?

Treatment for atherosclerosis may include lifestyle changes, medicine, and surgery.

Lifestyle changes

You can change some risk factors for atherosclerosis such as smoking, high cholesterol levels, high blood sugar (glucose) levels, lack of exercise, poor dietary habits, and high blood pressure.

Medicines

Medicines that may be used to treat atherosclerosis include:

Antiplatelet medicines. These are medicines used to decrease the ability of platelets in the blood to stick together and cause clots. Aspirin, clopidogrel, ticlopidine, and dipyridamole are examples of antiplatelet medicines.

Anticoagulants. Also called blood thinners, these medicines work differently from antiplatelet medicines to decrease the ability of the blood to clot. Warfarin and heparin are examples of anticoagulants.

Cholesterol-lowering medicines. These are medicines used to lower fats (lipids) in the blood, particularly low density lipid (LDL) cholesterol. Statins are a group of cholesterol-lowering medicines. They include simvastatin, atorvastatin, and pravastatin among others. Bile acid sequestrants—colesevelam, cholestyramine and colestipol—and nicotinic acid are other types of medicine that may be used to reduce cholesterol levels. Your doctor may also prescribe fibrates to help improve your cholesterol and triglyceride levels.

Blood pressure medicines. Several different groups of medicines act in different ways to lower blood pressure.

Coronary angioplasty

Coronary angioplasty

With this procedure, a long thin tube (catheter) is thread through a blood vessel to the heart. There, a balloon is inflated to create a bigger opening in the vessel to increase blood flow. Although angioplasty is done in other blood vessels elsewhere in the body, percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) refers to angioplasty in the coronary arteries to permit more blood flow into the heart. There are several types of PCI procedures, including:

Balloon angioplasty. A small balloon is inflated inside the blocked artery to open the blocked area.

Atherectomy. The blocked area inside the artery is shaved away by a tiny device on the end of a catheter.

Laser angioplasty. A laser used to vaporize the blockage in the artery.

Coronary artery stent. A tiny mesh coil is expanded inside the blocked artery to open the blocked area and is left in place to keep the artery open.

Coronary artery bypass

Most commonly referred to as bypass surgery, this surgery is often done in people who have angina (chest pain) due to coronary artery disease (where plaque has built up in the arteries). During the surgery, a bypass is created by grafting a piece of a healthy vein from elsewhere in the body and attaching it above and below the blocked area of a coronary artery. This lets blood flow around the blockage. Veins are usually taken from the leg or from the chest wall. Sometimes more than one artery needs to be bypassed during the same surgery.

What are the complications of atherosclerosis?

Plaque buildup inside the arteries reduces the blood flow. A heart attack may occur if the blood supply is reduced to the heart. A damaged heart muscle may not pump as well and can lead to heart failure. A stroke may occur if the blood supply is cut off to the brain. Severe pain and tissue death may occur if the blood supply is reduced to the arms and legs.

Can atherosclerosis be prevented?

You can prevent or delay atherosclerosis by reducing risk factors. This includes adopting a healthy lifestyle.  A healthy diet, losing weight, being physically active, and not smoking can help reduce your risk of atherosclerosis. A healthy diet includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean meats, skinless chicken, seafood, and fat-free or low-fat dairy products. A healthy diet also limits sodium, refined sugars and grains, and solid fats.

If you are at risk for atherosclerosis because of family history, or high cholesterol, it is important that you take medicines as directed by your healthcare provider.

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When should I call my healthcare provider?

If your symptoms get worse or you have new symptoms, let your healthcare provider know.

Key points of atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis is thickening or hardening of the arteries caused by a buildup of plaque in the inner lining of an artery.

Risk factors may include high cholesterol and triglyceride levels, high blood pressure, smoking, diabetes, obesity, physical activity, and eating saturated fats.

Atherosclerosis can cause a heart attack, stroke, aneurysm, or blood clot.

You may need medicine, treatments, or surgery to reduce the complications of atherosclerosis.

What dissolves artery plaque?

A person’s arteries can become clogged by a buildup of a substance called plaque. There are no quick fixes for melting away plaque, but people can make key lifestyle changes to stop more of it accumulating and to improve their heart health.

In serious cases, medical procedures or surgery can help to remove blockages from within the arteries. A doctor may also prescribe medication, such as aspirin, or cholesterol-reducing drugs, such as statins.

In this article, we take a close look at how to prevent plaque buildup, along with risk factors and complications when someone’s arteries are clogged.

What are clogged arteries?

Plaque is a mixture of fat, calcium, cholesterol, and waste from the cells in the body. This mix can stick to the walls of the arteries, making these blood vessels narrower. When this happens, it is called atherosclerosis.

Clogged or blocked arteries can stop fresh blood from reaching parts of the body, which can put a person at risk of a heart attack, heart failure, or stroke.

In many cases, people can prevent a plaque buildup and atherosclerosis. Some medical treatments are available to help clear the arteries, but they are invasive.

The best treatment is usually prevention, as removing plaque is much more difficult than preventing it from occurring.

Preventing clogged arteries

Eating a heart-healthful diet and regularly exercising can be powerful tools for preventing clogged arteries. These disciplines also make a person feel better as time goes on.

People can prevent clogged arteries with the following lifestyle changes:

Avoiding trans fats

The type of fat a person eats can affect plaque in the arteries. The American Heart Association (AHA) recommendTrusted Source that a person limits their intake of saturated fats and trans fats. This is because these kinds of fats contain high levels of LDL cholesterol, which is the main material of plaque in the arteries.

Foods that are high in trans fats include:

fried foods

processed packaged foods

cakes, pies, and pastries

cookies and biscuits

margarine or butter substitutes

vegetable shortening

products with partially hydrogenated oils, otherwise known as trans fats

Along with trans fats, saturated fats may also affect heart health, though the evidence for this is mixed. Saturated fats are mostly found in animal products, such as beef, pork, and dairy, but also in coconut oil and palm oil.

One review of scientific studies found there was a small but possibly importantTrusted Source reduction in the risk of cardiovascular issues when people cut down on saturated fats and replaced them with unsaturated fats.

Another review study suggests that people should avoid saturated fatsTrusted Source because they increase LDL cholesterol in the body, which is a direct cause of heart issues.

Eating more unsaturated fats

Avocados, walnuts, and fatty fish all contain unsaturated fats.

Unsaturated fats are the good fats. They contain HDL cholesterol, which can help to take bad cholesterol from the arteries before it turns into plaque.

According to the AHA, unsaturated fats may helpTrusted Source improve blood cholesterol when eaten instead of trans or saturated fats.

Unsaturated fats are mainly found in plants and fatty fish. Sources include:

avocado

olives

walnuts

some vegetable oils including sunflower and olive

fatty fish, including trout, herring, and salmon

Following other dietary tips

The AHATrusted Source recommend that people aiming to lower their LDL cholesterol eat a diet rich in:

whole fruits and vegetables

nuts

whole grains

low-fat dairy

fish

poultry

They also recommend limiting sugary foods, red meat, and sugar-sweetened beverages.

Drinking herbal teas

Drinking teas, such as green or black tea, rooibos tea, or ginger tea may be good heart-healthy substitutes for other beverages.

A study from 2011 found that drinking 6 cups of rooibos tea per day for 6 weeks helped to lower the amount of LDL cholesterol in the blood in adults who were at risk for heart diseases.

Green tea can also help. A 2011 review reported that green tea and its extracts could lower LDL cholesterolTrusted Source in the blood, though this did not affect HDL cholesterol.

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Ginger supplementation may also improveTrusted Source significant markers that can lead to cardiovascular events, according to a 2016 study. Ginger root can be found as a supplement, but people can also brew it in hot water, and drink it as a tea.

A range of herbal teas is available for purchase online.

Exercising regularly

Obesity is a risk factor for plaque buildup and heart disease. In addition to eating a healthful diet, regularly exercising may help a person to lose weight and reduce their risk of heart problems.

Taking part in cardiovascular exercise, otherwise known as cardio, on a regular basis may also help strengthen the heart and reduce plaque.

Simple cardio activities that raise the heart rate include:

jogging

cycling

running

brisk walking

swimming

playing tennis

doing aerobics

A person should aim to do 30 to 60 minutes of exercise that raises the heart rate for a good workout. A doctor may recommend a specific exercise routine to fit an individual, based on various lifestyle factor.

Other ways to prevent clogged arteries

Stop smoking. According to the AHA, smoking is a major risk factorTrusted Source. It directly damages the arteries and can make fatty deposits grow faster and become larger.

Stress reduction. Psychological stress levels may also cause a reaction in the body. Stress-reduction techniques, including yoga, meditation, or breathing exercises may help some people relax during a hectic day.

Medical treatments

When prevention methods are not effective, a person may need medical intervention to try and alleviate the effects of clogged arteries.

A doctor may recommend medications to lower LDL cholesterol to use alongside dietary changes. These actions should be seen as an additional help rather than as solutions.

Similarly, a blocked artery may require surgical treatment. This could involve inserting a tube into the artery to remove the plaque while leaving behind a stent to support the artery walls and increase blood flow.

With severe blockages, doctors may perform surgery called a heart bypass to make sure the blood can get around the obstructed artery.

Below is a 3-D model of atherosclerosis, which is fully interactive. You can explore this model using your mouse pad or touchscreen.

Risk factors for clogged arteries

Regular exercise may help a person to lose weight and reduce the risk of clogged arteries.

There are some risk factors for clogged arteries that people can manage themselves, including:

high blood pressure

smoking

unhealthy cholesterol levels

insulin resistance and diabetes

obesity

lack of physical activity

an unhealthful diet

When someone employs the tips listed above, they will be taking a step in the right direction. If they are worried about their risk factors, they should speak with their doctor.

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Complications

Clogged arteries, if they are left unchecked, can lead to conditions such as:

Heart disease, which is where plaque builds up in the arteries in and around the heart.

Angina, a condition where chest pain results from a lack of blood flow to the heart.

Peripheral artery disease, which is where plaque builds up in the arms and legs.

A person’s arteries get narrower over their lifetime. The process usually speeds upTrusted Source after the age of 30. Typically, it does not become a problem until a person is in their 50s or 60s.

Outlook

Removing plaque from the arteries is not a simple process. It may involve invasive procedures that can impact a person’s quality of life.

Taking steps to prevent or slow down the formation of plaque is the best way to avoid clogged arteries at any stage in life. This will be especially helpful for a person who is at risk of a plaque buildup or atherosclerosis.

A doctor will be able to recommend diet and lifestyle tips tailored to an individual’s requirements and current abilities, and they can discuss any necessary treatment or prevention options.

(Reuters Health) - A traditional Mediterranean diet with added olive oil may be tied to a lower risk of heart disease at least in part because it helps maintain healthy blood flow and clear debris from arteries, a Spanish study suggests.

Bottles of olive oil are lined in a factory in Dos Hermanas, near the Andalusian capital of Seville September 21, 2012. REUTERS/Marcelo del Pozo

“A Mediterranean diet rich in virgin olive oil improves the function of high-density lipoproteins, HDL, popularly known as `good’ cholesterol,” said lead study author Dr. Alvaro Hernáez of the Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute in Barcelona.

This type of diet typically includes lots of fruits and legumes that are rich in antioxidants as well as plenty of vegetables, whole grains and olive oil. It also tends to favor lean sources of protein like chicken or fish over red meat, which contains more saturated fat.

“Our hypothesis is that these dietary antioxidants may bind to HDL particles and protect them against different kinds of attacks,” Hernáez said by email. “As HDLs are more protected, they can perform their biological functions more efficiently and, therefore, they are able to remove cholesterol from arteries or contribute to the relaxation of blood vessels for longer.”

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High levels of low density lipoproteins (LDL) or “bad” cholesterol and fats known as triglycerides are associated with an increased risk of heart and blood vessel diseases. HDL, or “good,” cholesterol is associated with a lower risk because it helps remove excess LDL from the bloodstream.

For the current study, Hernáez and colleagues examined data on 296 older adults at risk for cardiovascular disease who were randomly assigned to one of three diets: a Mediterranean diet supplemented with one liter per week (about 34 fluid ounces) of extra virgin olive oil, a Mediterranean diet supplemented with 30 grams (1 oz) of nuts a day, or a low-fat diet.

Participants were 66 years old on average, and they were asked to follow their assigned diet for one year.

Only the low-fat diet was associated with reduced LDL and total cholesterol levels, researchers report in a paper scheduled for publication in the journal Circulation.

None of the diets increased HDL levels significantly.

But blood tests and lab work showed better HDL functioning in the group assigned to the Mediterranean diet with extra olive oil.

While some previous research has linked a Mediterranean diet to weight loss and a reduced risk of heart disease and some cancers, scientists haven’t conclusively proven that the diet itself is responsible, instead of other lifestyle choices made by people who eat this way.

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Limitations of the current study include the fact that all three diets were relatively healthy, making it difficult to detect meaningful differences in outcomes, the authors note.

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Still, the findings add to a growing body of research suggesting that HDL function may influence cardiovascular disease risk, Dr. Daniel Rader of the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia writes in an accompanying editorial.

“We know the Mediterranean diet reduces risk of heart disease but still don’t know exactly why,” Rader said by email. “There is probably more than one reason, and this study suggests that one mechanism might be that the Mediterranean diet improves the function of HDL.”

Even without clear evidence explaining why the Mediterranean diet may help the heart, eating this way can still make sense, Rader added.

“For people who are interested in reducing their risk of heart disease, the Mediterranean diet is probably the best proven diet to reduce risk,” Rader said. “I think the majority of people who don’t have other major dietary concerns should look toward the Mediterranean diet as a heart healthy diet.”