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Arteriosclerosis Nutrition

Arteriosclerosis is the hardening of the arteries due to the build up of plaque or fatty deposits, leading to serious complications unless properly treated. Arteriosclerosis can occur anywhere in the body.

  1. Symptoms

    • Symptoms of arteriosclerosis vary according to which arteries are affected. Hardened heart arteries can result in chest pain, while hardened leg arteries can cause leg pain and difficulty walking.

    Causes and Risk Factors

    • Arteriosclerosis may be caused by high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity, diabetes, smoking and poor diet. Men, African Americans and older adults are at an increased risk of developing arteriosclerosis.

    Complications

    • Left untreated, arteriosclerosis may be fatal. Fat deposits can continue to build up and harden along artery walls, weakening blood flow and oxygen delivery to organs and tissue. When vessels become too narrow and obstruct blood flow, a heart attack or stroke could occur.

    Treatment

    • Treatment includes prescription drugs that help lower cholesterol and high blood pressure and reduce the risk of blood clot formation. Surgical procedures, such as angioplasties, may be performed to widen blood vessels.

    Nutrition and Prevention

    • You can treat and prevent arteriosclerosis by modifying your diet to include raw fruits and vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins. Eliminate saturated fat, limit salt intake and replace white sugar with raw brown sugar or honey. Proper diet in addition to regular moderate exercise such as walking or swimming will help you reduce risk factors such as obesity, high blood pressure and high cholesterol.

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