Top 10 Foods for Clean Arteries

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Top 10 Foods for Clean Arteries

Certain foods are known to promote a healthy circulatory system and reduce blood pressure, thereby helping to prevent heart disease, according to BloodPressureCenter.com. With the right foods, you can manage body weight, stay within the recommended daily sodium allowance and maintain a healthy heart. Learn about the special foods that help clear your arteries of plaque, improve blood flow to your organs and heart, and restore your health.

Dairy

BloodPressureCenter.com notes the benefits of drinking skimmed milk, and Dr. Applegate, a nationally renowned expert on nutrition and fitness based out of the University of California at Davis, points out that modest amounts of cheeses such as gruyere, cheddar, parmesan and Swiss, contribute calcium, keeping blood pressure stable.

Whole Grains

Whole grains, especially oatmeal and oat bran, have been found to be high in soluble fibers which can lower cholesterol. These foods have the ability to bind to the "bad" cholesterol (LDL), flushing it from the body.

Protein

Fresh fish is one of the best animal proteins you can consume, being high in heart-healing omega 3 fatty acids. Fish is also high in monounsaturated fats and calcium, which have been found to be helpful in lowering blood pressure and the risk of heart attack.

Dr. Applegate points out that clams are high in omega 3 and 6 oils, as well as sterols which help the body block the absorption of cholesterol.

Fruits

Pectin is a natural fiber that is found in apples and citrus fruits. Pectin binds to cholesterol and helps flush it from the blood. Dr. Applegate explains that apples have been shown to lower cholesterol levels as much as 10 percent over a six-week period. Both oranges and lemons are high in potassium, and aid the kidneys' regulation of blood pressure. Grapefruit contains important nutrients like vitamin C and folic acid. Lycopene, an antioxidant that offers protection against cholesterol damage, is found in pink grapefruit.

Vegetables

Folic acid and vitamin B is found in corn, which helps protect the arteries and is high on the list of Dr. Applegate's Heart-Smart Foods. She explains how onions and avocados are helpful in protecting blood vessel walls by preventing the build up of LDL, or "bad" cholesterol.

Nuts and Seeds

According to Edgar Cayce in his book, "Nourishing the Body Temple: Edgar Cayce's Approach to Nutrition," 10 raw almonds a day can prevent cancer and other chronic diseases, though this claim has not been proven in scientific studies. High in minerals and phytonutrients, monounsaturated fats and vitamin E, almonds are a heart-healthy wonder food.

Fats

Olive oil is high in omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, and is recommended by health care advocates and doctors alike for heart and artery health.

Dried Beans

Dried beans are full of soluble fiber to assist in lowering cholesterol, and are also high in vitamin B and folic acid. Consuming beans or legumes helps to prevent clogged arteries, according to Dr. Applegate.

Spices

Garlic has anti-inflammatory properties and is considered a natural antibiotic that may also help prevent blood clots by lowering cholesterol. One clove of raw garlic a day offers artery protection, says Dr. Applegate.

Sweets

The "Journal of the American Medical Association" points out that about ½ oz. of dark chocolate each day helps protect the heart and control blood pressure due to its being rich in phenols, which are known to be helpful in keeping arteries clear of plaque.

Source : http://www.livestrong.com/article/59740-top-foods-clean-arteries/