Atherosclerosis is a condition where plaque builds up in the arteries, causing them to narrow and harden over time. This can lead to serious health problems, such as heart attack and stroke.

While there are medications and procedures that can help manage atherosclerosis, recent research suggests that nature may hold the key to slowing its progression.

The Study

In a study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, researchers examined the impact of a specific lifestyle intervention on atherosclerosis.

The intervention involved following a whole-food, plant-based diet, engaging in regular exercise, and practicing stress-reducing techniques such as meditation and yoga.

A total of 198 patients with atherosclerosis were enrolled in the study. Half of the participants were randomly assigned to the lifestyle intervention group, while the other half received standard medical care.

After one year, the researchers found that the lifestyle intervention group had an 80% improvement in their atherosclerosis compared to the standard care group.

This improvement was measured using coronary artery calcium scans, which can detect the buildup of calcium deposits in the arteries that can contribute to atherosclerosis.

The Importance of Diet

The diet component of the lifestyle intervention is particularly important when it comes to atherosclerosis. Research has shown that a diet focused on plant-based foods can help reduce the risk of heart disease, including atherosclerosis.

Plants are rich in nutrients such as fiber, vitamins, and minerals that can help improve heart health. They also tend to be low in saturated fats and cholesterol, which can contribute to the development of atherosclerosis.

If you’re looking to improve your diet to support your heart health, consider incorporating more plant-based foods into your meals. This could include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds.

The Power of Exercise

Exercise is another key component of the lifestyle intervention used in the study. Regular physical activity has been shown to improve heart health in a number of ways, including by reducing inflammation and improving circulation.

When it comes to atherosclerosis, exercise can help reduce the buildup of plaque in the arteries by promoting the flow of blood. It can also help improve the function of the endothelium, which is the lining of the blood vessels.

If you’re new to exercise, start small with something like a daily walk, and gradually increase the intensity and duration of your workouts as you become more comfortable. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity most days of the week.

The Importance of Stress Reduction

Finally, the lifestyle intervention also included stress-reducing techniques such as meditation and yoga.

Stress can contribute to the development of atherosclerosis by increasing inflammation in the body and promoting the buildup of plaque in the arteries.

By practicing techniques that promote relaxation and calmness, such as meditation and yoga, you can help reduce the impact of stress on your body.

Other stress-reducing activities could include spending time in nature, practicing deep breathing exercises, or spending time with loved ones.

Overall, the study suggests that a combination of diet, exercise, and stress-reducing techniques may be a powerful tool for slowing the progression of atherosclerosis.

If you’re looking to improve your heart health, consider incorporating some of these strategies into your life.