Arteries are blood vessels that carry blood rich in oxygen and nutrients from the heart to the rest of the body.

However, arteries can get blocked due to the accumulation of plaque, which is formed by the buildup of cholesterol, fat, and other substances in the bloodstream. This blockage can lead to various health problems, such as heart attack, stroke, or peripheral artery disease. Fortunately, there are several foods that can help unblock your arteries and improve your overall heart health.

1. Garlic

Garlic contains allicin, which is an active ingredient that can reduce the accumulation of plaque in the arteries. Allicin also helps lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, which are major risk factors for heart disease.

Eating raw garlic or taking garlic supplements can help improve arterial health.

2. Green Leafy Vegetables

Green leafy vegetables, such as kale, spinach, collard greens, and broccoli, are rich in fiber, minerals, and vitamins that can help lower blood pressure, reduce inflammation, and improve heart health.

They can also boost the production of nitric oxide, which helps relax blood vessels and improve blood flow.

3. Nuts

Nuts, such as walnuts, almonds, pistachios, and cashews, are rich in healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation, lower cholesterol levels, and improve arterial function.

Eating a handful of nuts daily can reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.

4. Fatty Fish

Fatty fish, such as salmon, tuna, sardines, and mackerel, are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for maintaining heart health.

Omega-3s can help reduce inflammation, lower triglyceride levels, and prevent blood clots that can cause heart attacks and strokes.

5. Olive Oil

Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats, which can help reduce cholesterol levels and improve arterial function. Olive oil also contains antioxidants that can protect the arteries from damage caused by free radicals.

Use olive oil instead of butter or margarine in cooking and as a salad dressing for a heart-healthy diet.

6. Berries

Berries, such as blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries, are rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants that can help improve heart health.

Berries can also reduce inflammation, lower blood pressure, and prevent the oxidation of LDL cholesterol, which can contribute to the formation of plaque in the arteries.

7. Whole Grains

Whole grains, such as oats, brown rice, quinoa, and whole-wheat bread, are rich in fiber and nutrients that can help lower cholesterol levels, reduce blood pressure, and improve arterial function.

Eating whole grains instead of refined grains can help reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.

8. Tomatoes

Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, which is an antioxidant that can help prevent the oxidation of LDL cholesterol. This can reduce the risk of plaque formation in the arteries and improve heart health.

Cooked tomatoes, such as tomato sauce or tomato soup, are more effective in releasing lycopene than raw tomatoes.

9. Turmeric

Turmeric contains curcumin, which is an active ingredient that can reduce inflammation, lower cholesterol levels, and improve arterial health.

Adding turmeric to your dishes or taking turmeric supplements can help prevent the buildup of plaque in the arteries.

10. Avocado

Avocado is rich in monounsaturated fats, fiber, and potassium that can help lower cholesterol levels, reduce blood pressure, and improve arterial function.

Eating avocado as part of a heart-healthy diet can help reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.