Arteriosclerosis is a health condition in which the arterial walls become thick and narrow. The thickening of artery walls restrict the flow of blood to the organs – heart, brain, legs, kidneys, and abdominal aorta. When arteriosclerosis occurring due to fatty deposits on the inner arterial walls is called Atherosclerosis.
To prevent and treat arteriosclerosis, you can use the following vitamins and nutritional supplements:
1. Vitamin C. Scientific studies have shown that vitamin C has effects in treatment of arteriosclerosis, cardiovascular and heart disease. Taking supplements that contain vitamin C, or fruits, vegetables, such as orange, lemon, grapefruit, chili pepper, can prevent clotting of blood, fat absorption, dissolve the depositions of cholesterol and improve the condition of arteriosclerosis.
2. Vitamin E. Vitamin E is an antioxidant which can protect LDL from oxidative damage and can be helpful in prevention of heart disease. Taking vitamin E daily may lower the risk of arteriosclerosis and heart attacks. In a double-blind trial, people with high cholesterol who took natural vitamin E per day for three years had 10% less progression of atherosclerosis compared with those taking placebo.
3. Omega 3. Omega-3 fatty acids have the effects to break down cholesterol in the lining of blood vessels, and prevent and treat cholesterol/heart disease complications. Omega 3 can be found in many foods, including salmon, mackerel and other fatty fish, and flaxseed oil. Fish oil supplements are rich in omega 3 fatty acids. taking fish oil can lower the risk of arteriosclerosis and heart disease. A double-blind trial showed that people with atherosclerosis who took fish oil (6 grams per day for 3 months and then 3 grams a day for 21 months) had significant regression of atherosclerotic plaques and a decrease in cardiovascular events (heart attack and stroke) compared with those who did not take fish oil.
4. Flavonoids (bioflavonoids, or vitamin P). Flavonoids exist in citrus, tea, wine and dark chocolate. Researches suggest that the flavonoids quercetin, resveratrol, and catechins found in red wine reduce the risk of atherosclerosis by protecting against the damage caused by LDL cholesterol. Studies found that quercetin and rutin can help in maintaining cellular health. They are used in many countries as medications for blood vessel protection.
5. Lycopene, has been found to be low in the blood of people with atherosclerosis, particularly if they are smokers. tomatoes contains high amounts of lycopene.
6. Beta-carotene. The research showed that eating a diet high in beta-carotene protects against atherosclerosis and heart disease.
7. Polyphenols. Polyphenols can be beneficial to those with diseased hearts and circulatory systems. Polyphenols are found in a wide array of phytochemical-bearing foods, such as fruits: apples, blackberries, blueberries, cherries, cranberries, grapes, pears, plums, raspberries, and strawberries, and vegetables: broccoli, cabbage, celery, onion and parsley. Honey, red wine, chocolate, green tea, olive oil, bee pollen and many grains are also the sources of polyphenols.
Visit local health food supplement stores, you can find these vitamins and nutritional supplements. Or you can eat the foods that contain these vitamins and nutrients.
