How to Clear Your Arteries

Atherosclerosis, or hardening of the arteries, is due to the buildup of calcium, cholesterol, fat, cellular waste and fibrin. High blood pressure, heart attack and stroke can be a result of hardening of the arteries. The blood flow is obstructed and the result is much like water trying to get through a clogged drain. Learning how to clear your arteries can help you prevent and reverse any damage that may have accumulated.

Instructions

1

Eat foods high in vitamin K, such as soybeans, green vegetables, kale, spinach, broccoli and brussels sprouts. According to LiveStrong, Health Day News published an article stating that foods rich in vitamin K help clean out excess plaque in the arteries. It's also suggested to use at least two teaspoons of olive oil a day as well.

2

Eat fish twice a week. Fish is high in Omega-3 fatty acids Other foods that are high in Omega-3 fatty acids are walnuts, tofu, soybeans and flax seed. According to an article published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, high levels of the Omega-3 fatty acids may also reduce plaque accumulation arteries.

3

Drink pomegranate juice. This is another good source of food to help combat hardening of the arteries. Dr. Claudio Napoli, professor of medicine and clinical pathology at the University of Naples, Italy, claims that pomegranate contains antioxidants that are thought to strengthen artery and capillary walls, enhance the immune function and promote overall health.

4

Take medications prescribed by your doctor to lower blood cholesterol levels such as statins, bile acid sequestrants and fibrates.

5

Consult with your doctor regarding surgery, if your case is severe. This may be a balloon angioplasty, in which a balloon-tipped catheter is used, opening blocked arteries. When the narrow part of the artery is reached, the balloon is inflated, pressing the plaque against the arterial wall, improving blood flow. Stenting often follows an angioplasty. With a stent a metal tube is placed in the artery to keep the lumen open after a successful dilation. Bypass surgery is also another option to remove obstructions and improve blood flow to the downstream artery.