Heart disease and heart attacks are one of the largest causes of deaths around. These are both caused by plaque buildup in arteries due to unhealthy eating and drinking. The buildup will then make it harder for blood to run through smoothly, causing the blood to get clogged in your arteries. The severity of this problem is tenfold, as clogged arteries can certainly lead to heart attack, heart disease, and stroke. The food you eat certainly plays an important role in your overall health, and the health of your arteries is no exception. These eight food items will help you cleanse those arteries and be on your way to a healthier body!
Avocado
That extra cost to add avocado is well worth it when it comes to keeping your meals healthy and beneficial. Avocado helps rid your body of bad cholesterol and contributes to your overall good cholesterol that helps to clean out your arteries. While acting as a great substitute or addition to any salad or sandwich, avocados also help lower blood pressure, which is a big factor when considering risks of heart attack or stroke.
Spinach
Loaded with all the right things, spinach will be a great contribution to your health. The potassium and fiber found in spinach help lower your blood pressure and prevents your arteries from getting blocked. Make your salads with spinach, throw it in your sandwich, or even hide it in your pasta or smoothie!
Nuts
Nuts are a great snack to have around the house or on the go. They are tasty, fill you up, and are loaded with healthy fats and protein. Magnesium, which is found in a variety of nuts, are linked to obstructing buildup and plaque in arteries. Grab a bag of almonds, walnuts, peanuts, or pistachios to make your snacking healthier and easier!
Pomegranate
Pomegranates are powerful fruits that help prevent blocked arteries and promote blood flow. Due to their high level of antioxidants, pomegranates activate the production of nitric oxide in the blood. This helps keep your blood moving and avoids that plaque buildup that can occur in your arteries. Pomegranate seeds go great as a topping on salads, yogurt, and oatmeal. You can also add pomegranate juice to your morning breakfast or smoothie!
Whole Grains
Whole grains are a great addition to your everyday diet. Rich in fiber, whole grains offer a world of benefits, especially when it comes to your cholesterol. The grains help lower cholesterol and protect you from heart disease. It has even been found that whole grains help widen the artery walls, allowing your blood to run smoothly and thoroughly. Quinoa and oatmeal are great options when considering foods that contain whole grains. You can also opt for brown rice, whole grain bread, and whole-grain pasta when making your choices at any local restaurant.
Watermelon
This summertime staple is not only cool, tasty, and loaded with water, but it also is great for your arteries. Watermelon has a great natural source of amino acids that boost nitric oxide production in the body. This causes your arteries to relax, decreases inflammation and helps lower blood pressure. What more can you ask for? Well, watermelon also helps lower belly fat accumulation, which ultimately lowers the risk of heart disease.
Citrus
Citrus fruits are great sources of Vitamin C and antioxidants. In fact, you will already benefit yourself by simply throwing in some lemons to your iced water. Vitamin C has been linked to reducing your risk of heart disease and protecting your arterial walls. Peel an orange for an afternoon snack, have a glass of orange juice, or maybe enjoy a slice of grapefruit. Any of these fruits will contribute to your overall health and certainly help cleanse your arteries.
Fatty Fish
Fatty fish, such as tuna and salmon, are full of healthy fats that will help you build a healthier and stronger body. The healthy fats, known as Omega-3 fatty acids, found in these fish help clear out your arteries and increase your good cholesterol. Try to avoid eating any breaded fish, as that will defeat the purpose. Opt for baked or grilled fish twice a week to help reduce plaque buildup in your arteries.
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