Treat Atherosclerosis Naturally with Home Remedies and Life style Corrections

As per the National Health Interview Survey, Centre for Disease Control, estimated prevalence of atherosclerosis 17 per 1000 population in United States. This condition increases the risk of cardiovascular disorders like myocardial infraction and strokes. Home remedies and herbs can prove beneficial in halting the progress of this condition and can also reduce the risk of occurance of complications.

What is Atherosclerosis?

Development of Atherosclerosis

A syndrome characterized by chronic inflammation of the linings of the arterial walls, due to accumulation of plaque. Plaque may comprise of lipoproteins, white blood cells, platelets, calcium or toxins, etc.

The inflammation causes narrowing of the arteries along with hardening of the arterial wall, both of which may result in reduced flow of blood to the most distant parts of the circulatory system.

This in turn forces the heart to pump harder, resulting in elevated blood pressure levels. Over a prolonged duration of time, reduced blood flow may result in ischemia and death of tissue cells.

Home Remedies to Treat Atherosclerosis

Diet is the critical element for control and management of some of the chronic disease conditions. To control atherosclerosis include some of the following in your daily diet, as these act as good natural remedies to keep the heart healthy,

1.  Garlic: Garlic is an amazing food prescription that provides protection against heart diseases. Studies have revealed that garlic reduces the total serum cholesterol level and increases the HDL level in the blood. Garlic is also an important anti-hypertensive. The herb is potent enough to lower the systolic blood pressure by 8 mmHg and the diastolic blood pressure by 5 mmHg. Consuming 2 to 5 pods of the herb daily is recommended. Also, always chop the garlic flakes and let them sit for 5 to 7 minutes. This is very essential, since, it takes that much time for the vital enzymes from the garlic to be released.



Celery to treat atherosclerosis

2. Bell Peppers: Bell peppers reduce the levels of cholesterol in the blood. Furthermore, peppers also prevent platelet aggregation and prevent clot formation, thus reducing the risk of heart attack and stroke. These qualities are attributed to the flavanoid (an anti-oxidant) and vitamin C content of the bell peppers. Bell pepper is also believed to assists in weight loss. 
3. Celery: Research and clinical trials have confirmed that celery helps lower blood pressure levels. Courmarin found in celery tones up the entire vascular system of the body and keeps blood pressure in check. A volunteer for the clinical trial consumed 115 grams of celery every day for 1 week. The trial demonstrated significant results. His blood pressure dropped from 158/96 mmHg to 118/82 mmHg.

 Life Style Modifications to treat Atherosclerosis

Though diet plays a crucial role in regulating and normalizing the levels of Triglycerides and Cholesterol in the blood and reducing the detrimental effects of atherosclerosis, some crucial life style modifications are required,

• Smoking and consumption of alcohol is closely linked with increased risk of developing atherosclerosis.
• Regular exercise is the key to ensure burn down of cholesterol and fat which in turn reduces the risk of atherosclerosis and hypertension.
• Meditation and Yoga techniques have been found highly effective against management of stress and incorporating them as a part of routine life can enhance overall health and reduce the risk of developing atherosclerosis and improves heart health
• Avoid the indiscriminate use of over the counter medications. Though not directly linked to atherosclerosis, overuse of modern medicine can be harmful.