Diet for Carotid Neck Problems

Lifestyle changes are a crucial part of regaining and maintaining health for individuals diagnosed with problems, typically blockages, in the carotid arteries of the neck. This means developing a strong exercise regimen and, in support of that, a healthy new diet for the heart and neck.

Significance

• Carotid artery disease, also called carotid artery stenosis, refers to arteries in the neck that have become clogged. "Carotid artery disease, is characterized by a narrowing in one or both of the two carotid arteries in the neck, and can lead to stroke," according to the University of Chicago's Department of Surgery. "Most frequently, the narrowing results from atherosclerosis."

  This "hardening of the arteries," or plaque, occurs over decades as a buildup of fatty substances, largely comprised of cholesterol, accumulates in the arteries, blocking blood flow and oxygen to the brain.

Risk Factors

• Sedentary lifestyles, smoking, and poor eating habits that lead to high cholesterol and hypertension are generally the culprits in development of cardiovascular disease. Since carotid arterial disease is a form of cardiovascular disease, it's important for those with carotid blockages to follow the same sort of heart healthy diet necessary for all patients suffering from plaque buildup in any of the body's arteries. In fact, the majority of patients discovered to have blockage in the carotid arteries have previously been diagnosed with coronary or peripheral arterial disease. This means focusing on reducing levels of cholesterol and blood pressure.

Nutrition

• Sodium wreaks havoc on efforts to relieve hypertension, so be diligent in avoiding salt. Most people should consume less than 2,000 milligrams daily. A diet high in vegetables and fruits will provide quality nutrients and help drop blood pressure. High levels of cholesterol may be battled with unrefined whole grain foods that are loaded with fiber. And don't forget the treasures of the sea. "Eat fish at least twice a week," says the American Heart Association. "Recent research shows that eating oily fish containing omega-3 fatty acids (for example, salmon, trout, and herring) may help lower your risk of death from coronary artery disease."

Diet

• Limiting cholesterol-heavy saturated and trans fats is an important strategy in developing a healthy diet for carotid neck problems. These "bad" fats are typically found in meat and dairy products, especially those that are fried. Butter, margarine and shortening should be avoided while substitutions like olive oil and canola oil are positive alternatives. These are classified as monounsaturated fats which, along with polyunsaturated fats, are much healthier than saturated and trans fats. Yes even these should be used in moderation as all types of fats are high in calories.

  Lean meat, poultry, fish and low-fat dairy products are necessities for heart health. "Beans, peas and lentils also are good sources of protein and contain less fat and no cholesterol, making them good substitutes for meat," according to The Mayo Clinic."Substituting soy protein for animal protein --- for example, a soy burger for a hamburger --- will reduce your fat and cholesterol intake."

  Pork and red meat labeled "loin" or "round" typically have the lowest amount of fat. To make these meats even healthier, grill, bake or broil rather than frying.