Arteriosclerosis

What is it?

Arteriosclerosis is the thickening and hardening of the walls of arteries, often due to the build-up of plaque. This condition leads to reduced blood flow and can result in heart attack, stroke, and other complications.

What are the symptoms?

High blood pressure
Shortness of breath
Chest pain
Dizziness or fainting
Fatigue
Swelling in the legs or ankles

What else could it be? (Differential diagnosis)

Atherosclerosis
Hypertension
Heart disease
Stroke

What are the aggravating factors?

High cholesterol
Smoking
High blood pressure
Sedentary lifestyle
Diabetes

What types of food are helpful?

Antioxidant-rich foods: Berries, dark chocolate, and nuts help prevent oxidative damage to arteries.
Omega-3 fatty acids: Found in fish and flaxseed, they help reduce inflammation.
High-fiber diet: Whole grains, vegetables, and fruits to reduce cholesterol.

Sample Recipe: Baked Sweet Potatoes with Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Ingredients: Sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, olive oil, garlic, rosemary.
Directions: Roast sweet potatoes and Brussels sprouts in olive oil with garlic and rosemary for a nutritious side dish.

What are the traditional treatments?

Medications: Statins, antihypertensive medications, and blood thinners.
Angioplasty: A procedure to widen the arteries.
Bypass surgery: To reroute blood flow in severely blocked arteries.
Lifestyle changes: Dietary changes, exercise, and quitting smoking.

What are the natural and alternative treatments?

Turmeric: Contains curcumin, which helps reduce inflammation and improve blood vessel health.
Garlic: A natural blood thinner that may help lower cholesterol.
Hawthorn: Known to support cardiovascular health and improve circulation.