Homemade Cures for Clogged Arteries

Clogged arteries, also known as atherosclerosis, are the result of fat that has built up on and within artery walls, called plaque. Clogged arteries are dangerous, because plaque can cause blood clotting that may lead to stroke or heart attack, according to the Mayo Clinic. Clogged arteries occur gradually, and many individuals are unaware they have atherosclerosis until the artery is not supplying enough blood to the body. Changing the way you eat and exercise are ideal homemade ways to unclog arteries.

Diet

• Clogged arteries are dangerous, and may trigger a heart attack or stroke at any time. According to the Mayo Clinic, you can have atherosclerosis in different arteries, and they will cause various symptoms. Clogging of heart arteries may cause symptoms of chest pain like a heart attack, while clogged arteries in the brain may cause numbness in extremities or make it difficult to speak since facial muscles will begin to droop.

  If you ever experience any of these symptoms see a doctor immediately. Changing diet and lifestyle at home may help to prevent the onset of atherosclerosis, or prevent it from getting worse. As suggested by the Mayo Clinic, switch to a heart-healthy diet. Your diet should include vegetables, fruits and whole grains and keep sodium levels to a minimum. Sodium has a detrimental effect of blood pressure, cholesterol and weight levels since it increases hardening of the arteries and causes you to retain water. Keep sodium levels to no more than 1,500 mg per day or less.

  According to the American Heart Association, you should try to eat fish at least two times a week to get healthy doses of omega-3 fatty acids. Salmon, herring and trout are good fish sources and may reduce the risk of artery disease.

  Quit smoking. The Mayo Clinic states that smoking increases damage to the arteries, and may cause complications if suffering from clogged arteries.

Exercise

• Getting plenty of exercise each day is one of the most important homemade cures for clogged arteries. Exercise improves circulation and supplies oxygen to the muscles and blood, as well as promotes new blood vessels to go around clogs or blockage, known as collateral vessels.

  Get 30 to 60 minutes of physical activity for at least five days a week. Low-impact activity such as walking is ideal for anyone who needs to exercise but may not have the stamina. The American Heart Association suggests other activities, such as jogging, swimming, dancing or any other activity that gets your heart rate up.