Supplements That Strengthen Arteries & Blood Vessels

Plaque damages arteries, causing blood cells to mobilize at the site of the plaque and attempt restoration. This causes inflammation, resulting in more plaque, further thickening the arterial walls. Adding supplements to a diet aids in allaying this deadly dilemma.

Types

• Grape seed extract strengthens the body.

  For instance, grape seed extract contains oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPCs), which strengthen blood vessels and protect LDL cholesterol from oxidation. Certain spices like ginger and turmeric also fight inflammation.

Expert Insight

• Consider supplements with nitric oxide.

  Nitric oxide is a newly discovered hero of the human body. Dr. Jason Allen of Duke University says that nitric oxide does a variety of jobs and is a powerful aid in preventing arteries from clogging.

Vitamin C

• Always take your vitamin C.

  Vitamin C keeps blood vessels healthy and reduces the risk for stroke. Also known as ascorbic acid, it is necessary for the development and repair of all body tissues. Vitamin C is easily absorbed both in food and in pill form.

Benefits

• The magic of omega-3.

  In addition, Dr. Oz says to take DHA, the omega-3 fatty acids found in fish. DHA reduces inflammation and among other things decreases the risk of atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) and arterial clots.

Prevention/Solution

• Supplements help ward off disease.

  According to JAMA, the American diet has insufficient vitamin intake to prevent chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, cancer and osteoporosis. Adding appropriate supplements can dramatically increase one's health and longevity.