Artery Health

There are things you can do to prevent, stabilize or even reverse arterial plaque.  The most powerful treatment is probably eating a more whole food plant based diet.  Cutting out excess meat and dairy correlates with a marked reduction in artery plaque.   A Mediterranean diet is a great example and great place to start.  For more advanced risk consider going completely meat and dairy free.

Of course not smoking is equally important.  Managing stress and getting regular exercise helps.  Getting plenty of restful sleep and treating any underlying sleep apnea is key.  When patients are doing all the lifestyle recommendations and taking the following supplements this will typically improve blood pressure and stop plaque progression.  If we still find progressive plaque despite all the above, then testing for toxic heavy metals followed by chelation to remove them is in order.

Supplements for artery health

I find this particular combination to work well for most patients.  There are more, but this is a good general support and good place to start.  We stock these in the office but they may also be ordered from the links below.

N1O1 helps produce nitric oxide (NO) which helps the cells that line our arteries to control blood pressure and cholesterol oxidation, leading to less plaque.

Arterial Protect and Endothelial Defense Pomegranate Plus are a great complementary duo from Life Extension.  The active ingredients from both are listed below.

Hesperidin

Hesperidin is a flavonoid found primarily in citrus fruits like oranges and lemons, offers several potential benefits for artery health. Its positive effects are largely attributed to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and vasoprotective properties. Here’s how hesperidin may benefit arterial health:

1. Antioxidant Effects:

• Reduction of Oxidative Stress: Hesperidin acts as an antioxidant, neutralizing free radicals and reducing oxidative stress. Oxidative stress can damage the endothelial cells lining the arteries, contributing to the development of atherosclerosis (plaque buildup in the arteries). By mitigating oxidative damage, hesperidin helps protect the arterial walls from injury.
• Lipid Peroxidation Inhibition: Hesperidin helps prevent the oxidation of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, a key step in the formation of atherosclerotic plaques. Reduced lipid peroxidation may decrease the risk of plaque formation and, consequently, cardiovascular events like heart attacks and strokes.

2. Anti-inflammatory Properties:

• Inflammation Reduction: Chronic inflammation is a major contributor to atherosclerosis and other cardiovascular diseases. Hesperidin has been shown to reduce the expression of inflammatory markers such as C-reactive protein (CRP) and interleukins. By lowering inflammation, hesperidin helps maintain the health of the arterial walls and prevents the progression of atherosclerosis.
• Inhibition of Inflammatory Pathways: Hesperidin inhibits key inflammatory pathways, such as the nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) pathway, which is involved in the regulation of immune responses and inflammation. This further contributes to its protective effects on the arteries.

3. Improvement of Endothelial Function:

• Enhancing Nitric Oxide Production: The endothelium (inner lining of blood vessels) plays a critical role in regulating blood flow and pressure by producing nitric oxide (NO), a molecule that helps dilate blood vessels. Hesperidin can enhance endothelial function by increasing the bioavailability of NO, leading to improved vasodilation and blood flow.
• Reduction of Endothelial Dysfunction: Endothelial dysfunction is an early marker of cardiovascular disease, where the arteries lose their ability to dilate properly. Hesperidin has been shown to improve endothelial function, reducing the risk of hypertension and other cardiovascular conditions.

4. Blood Pressure Regulation:

• Vasodilation: By promoting the production of nitric oxide and improving endothelial function, hesperidin helps relax blood vessels, which can lead to lower blood pressure. This vasodilatory effect is beneficial for reducing the strain on the heart and arteries.
• Reduction of Blood Pressure: Clinical studies have shown that hesperidin supplementation can lead to modest reductions in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure, particularly in individuals with hypertension.

5. Anti-atherosclerotic Effects:

• Inhibition of Platelet Aggregation: Hesperidin may help prevent the formation of blood clots by inhibiting platelet aggregation. This reduces the risk of thrombosis, which can lead to heart attacks or strokes when blood clots obstruct arteries.
• Reduction of Cholesterol Levels: Some studies suggest that hesperidin may help lower total and LDL cholesterol levels, further reducing the risk of atherosclerosis.

French Melon

French melon, particularly the variety known as Cucumis melo (also called cantaloupe or Charentais melon), has garnered attention for its potential benefits to artery health. These benefits are mainly due to the fruit’s rich content of antioxidants, vitamins, and other bioactive compounds. Here’s how French melon might support artery health:

1. Antioxidant Properties:

• Superoxide Dismutase (SOD): One of the key components found in French melon is superoxide dismutase (SOD), a powerful antioxidant enzyme. SOD helps neutralize superoxide radicals, which are highly reactive and can damage the endothelium (the inner lining of arteries) if left unchecked. By reducing oxidative stress, SOD helps protect the arterial walls from injury and subsequent atherosclerosis.
• Vitamin C: French melon is a good source of vitamin C, an antioxidant that helps reduce oxidative stress in the cardiovascular system. Vitamin C supports the health of the endothelium and aids in the regeneration of other antioxidants, further contributing to the protection of arteries.

2. Anti-inflammatory Effects:

• Reduction of Inflammation: Chronic inflammation is a major factor in the development of atherosclerosis, where plaques form in the arteries. The antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds in French melon can help reduce inflammation in the blood vessels, thus preventing or slowing the progression of atherosclerosis.
• Cytokine Modulation: Some studies suggest that the consumption of French melon may help modulate cytokine levels—proteins that mediate and regulate inflammation—leading to a reduction in inflammatory responses within the cardiovascular system.

3. Support for Endothelial Function:

• Improvement of Endothelial Health: The endothelium plays a critical role in maintaining vascular health by regulating blood flow and preventing clot formation. The antioxidants in French melon, particularly SOD, can help maintain the integrity of endothelial cells, ensuring they function properly and reducing the risk of endothelial dysfunction, a precursor to cardiovascular disease.

4. Blood Pressure Regulation:

• Potassium Content: French melon is a good source of potassium, a mineral that helps regulate blood pressure by balancing the effects of sodium and relaxing blood vessel walls. Proper potassium intake is associated with lower blood pressure and reduced strain on the cardiovascular system.
• Vasodilation: The overall nutrient profile of French melon, including its antioxidants and potassium, may support vasodilation, the widening of blood vessels, which is crucial for maintaining healthy blood pressure and preventing hypertension.

5. Prevention of Atherosclerosis:

• Plaque Formation: By reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, French melon may help prevent the formation of atherosclerotic plaques in the arteries. This is crucial for reducing the risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes.
• Cholesterol Management: Although not as directly studied as other fruits, the antioxidant content in French melon may contribute to better cholesterol management by preventing the oxidation of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, which is a key step in plaque formation.

Pomegranate

Pomegranates are highly regarded for their numerous health benefits, particularly for artery and cardiovascular health. These benefits are attributed to the fruit’s rich content of antioxidants, anti-inflammatory compounds, and other bioactive substances. Here’s how pomegranates can benefit artery health:

1. Antioxidant Properties:

• Rich in Polyphenols: Pomegranates are loaded with polyphenols, particularly punicalagins and anthocyanins, which are powerful antioxidants. These compounds help neutralize free radicals, reducing oxidative stress in the arteries. Oxidative stress can damage the endothelium (the inner lining of arteries) and contribute to the development of atherosclerosis (plaque buildup in the arteries).
• Protection Against LDL Oxidation: One of the key benefits of pomegranate is its ability to prevent the oxidation of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. Oxidized LDL is a significant contributor to atherosclerosis, as it leads to plaque formation in the arteries. By reducing LDL oxidation, pomegranates help maintain healthier arteries and lower the risk of cardiovascular disease.

2. Anti-inflammatory Effects:

• Reduction of Inflammation: Chronic inflammation is a major factor in the development and progression of atherosclerosis. Pomegranates have been shown to reduce the levels of inflammatory markers such as C-reactive protein (CRP) and interleukins. This anti-inflammatory effect helps protect the arteries from damage and reduces the risk of plaque formation.
• Inhibition of Inflammatory Pathways: Pomegranates may also inhibit specific inflammatory pathways in the body, such as the nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) pathway, which plays a role in the body’s immune response and inflammation. This contributes to a reduction in arterial inflammation.

3. Improvement of Endothelial Function:

• Enhanced Nitric Oxide Production: Pomegranates help improve endothelial function by enhancing the production and bioavailability of nitric oxide (NO), a molecule that relaxes and dilates blood vessels. Improved nitric oxide levels lead to better vasodilation, lower blood pressure, and overall healthier arteries.
• Protection of Endothelial Cells: The antioxidants in pomegranate protect endothelial cells from oxidative damage, helping to maintain the health and function of the artery walls. This is critical for preventing endothelial dysfunction, a precursor to cardiovascular diseases.

4. Blood Pressure Regulation:

• Lowering Blood Pressure: Pomegranate juice has been shown in clinical studies to reduce both systolic and diastolic blood pressure. This effect is likely due to the fruit’s ability to improve nitric oxide availability, enhance endothelial function, and reduce oxidative stress. Lower blood pressure reduces the strain on the arteries and heart, contributing to long-term cardiovascular health.
• Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) Inhibition: Pomegranates may have a mild inhibitory effect on the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), which is involved in blood pressure regulation. Inhibiting ACE can lead to lower blood pressure, further supporting arterial health.

5. Anti-Atherogenic Effects:

• Reduction in Plaque Formation: Pomegranate consumption has been linked to a reduction in atherosclerotic plaque buildup in the arteries. This is partly due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, as well as its ability to lower blood pressure and improve lipid profiles.
• Improved Lipid Profiles: Pomegranates may help improve cholesterol levels by reducing LDL cholesterol and increasing high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol. This healthier lipid profile is associated with a lower risk of atherosclerosis.

6. Prevention of Cardiovascular Events:

• Decreased Risk of Heart Disease: The combination of lowered blood pressure, reduced oxidative stress, and improved endothelial function makes pomegranates a valuable fruit for reducing the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular events.

Gotu Kola

Gotu kola (Centella asiatica) is a herb traditionally used in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine with a wide range of health benefits, including those for artery and cardiovascular health. The herb’s potential benefits for arterial health stem from its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and vasoprotective properties. Here’s how Gotu kola may support artery health:

1. Anti-inflammatory Effects:

• Reduction of Vascular Inflammation: Gotu kola contains triterpenoid compounds, such as asiaticoside, asiatic acid, and madecassoside, which have been shown to reduce inflammation. Chronic inflammation is a major contributor to the development of atherosclerosis (plaque buildup in arteries). By reducing inflammation, Gotu kola helps protect the arterial walls from damage and the formation of plaques.
• Modulation of Cytokine Production: The herb can modulate the production of cytokines, which are proteins that play a key role in the body’s inflammatory response. By regulating these proteins, Gotu kola may help lower inflammation within the cardiovascular system, further supporting arterial health.

2. Antioxidant Properties:

• Reduction of Oxidative Stress: Gotu kola is rich in antioxidants, which help neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress. Oxidative stress is a significant factor in endothelial damage and the development of cardiovascular diseases like atherosclerosis. By protecting the endothelial cells from oxidative damage, Gotu kola helps maintain the health of the arterial walls.
• Protection Against Lipid Peroxidation: Antioxidants in Gotu kola can inhibit lipid peroxidation, a process where free radicals cause the oxidation of lipids, including low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. Oxidized LDL is more likely to form plaques in the arteries, leading to atherosclerosis. By preventing this oxidation, Gotu kola helps reduce the risk of plaque formation.

3. Improvement of Endothelial Function:

• Enhanced Blood Vessel Integrity: Gotu kola has been shown to strengthen the endothelium, the inner lining of blood vessels, by increasing the production of collagen and other extracellular matrix components. This strengthens blood vessels, making them more resilient to damage and less prone to atherosclerosis.
• Improved Microcirculation: Gotu kola is known to improve microcirculation, which refers to the blood flow in the smallest blood vessels (capillaries). Improved microcirculation enhances overall blood flow, ensuring that tissues receive adequate oxygen and nutrients while reducing the risk of vascular complications.

4. Blood Pressure Regulation:

• Vasodilation: The herb promotes vasodilation, the relaxation and widening of blood vessels, which helps lower blood pressure. Proper blood pressure management is crucial for preventing damage to the arteries and reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
• Reduction of Hypertension: By improving circulation and reducing arterial stiffness, Gotu kola may help lower blood pressure, particularly in individuals with hypertension. Lower blood pressure reduces the strain on arteries and the heart, contributing to overall cardiovascular health.

5. Anti-atherosclerotic Effects:

• Prevention of Plaque Formation: Gotu kola’s combined anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects help prevent the buildup of atherosclerotic plaques in the arteries. This is crucial for reducing the risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes.
• Improvement of Vascular Tone: The herb may also improve vascular tone, making arteries more flexible and less susceptible to the development of atherosclerosis. This contributes to healthier arteries and better overall cardiovascular function.

6. Wound Healing and Vascular Health:

• Enhanced Healing: Gotu kola has been traditionally used for its wound healing properties. It stimulates collagen production and strengthens the extracellular matrix, which is important not just for skin healing but also for maintaining the structural integrity of blood vessels, preventing vascular damage and promoting repair.
• Reduction of Varicose Veins: Gotu kola is often used to treat venous insufficiency and varicose veins by strengthening vein walls and improving blood flow. While this is more related to veins than arteries, it demonstrates the herb’s broader benefits for vascular health.

Pycnogenol

Pycnogenol, a natural extract derived from the bark of the French maritime pine tree (Pinus pinaster), is rich in procyanidins, bioflavonoids, and other antioxidants. It has been extensively studied for its potential benefits in promoting cardiovascular health, particularly in supporting arterial function. Here’s how Pycnogenol can benefit artery health:

1. Antioxidant Properties:

• Reduction of Oxidative Stress: Pycnogenol is a potent antioxidant that helps neutralize free radicals, reducing oxidative stress in the cardiovascular system. Oxidative stress can damage the endothelial cells lining the arteries, leading to the development of atherosclerosis (plaque buildup). By protecting these cells, Pycnogenol helps maintain the integrity of the arterial walls.
• Prevention of LDL Oxidation: Pycnogenol has been shown to inhibit the oxidation of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, which is a key step in the formation of atherosclerotic plaques. By preventing LDL oxidation, Pycnogenol helps reduce the risk of plaque formation in the arteries.

2. Anti-inflammatory Effects:

• Reduction of Vascular Inflammation: Chronic inflammation is a major contributor to atherosclerosis and other cardiovascular diseases. Pycnogenol has anti-inflammatory properties that can help lower the levels of inflammatory markers, such as C-reactive protein (CRP), in the blood. This reduction in inflammation helps protect the arteries from damage and plaque buildup.
• Modulation of Inflammatory Pathways: Pycnogenol can modulate various inflammatory pathways, including the nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) pathway, which plays a crucial role in the body’s inflammatory response. By inhibiting these pathways, Pycnogenol further contributes to the reduction of inflammation in the cardiovascular system.

3. Improvement of Endothelial Function:

• Enhanced Nitric Oxide Production: Pycnogenol has been shown to enhance the production and release of nitric oxide (NO) in the endothelium. Nitric oxide is a critical molecule that promotes vasodilation, the relaxation and widening of blood vessels, which improves blood flow and reduces blood pressure. Better endothelial function is key to maintaining healthy arteries and preventing cardiovascular disease.
• Protection Against Endothelial Dysfunction: By improving nitric oxide bioavailability and reducing oxidative stress, Pycnogenol helps prevent endothelial dysfunction, a condition where the arteries lose their ability to dilate properly, leading to hypertension and atherosclerosis.

4. Blood Pressure Regulation:

• Lowering Blood Pressure: Clinical studies have shown that Pycnogenol can help lower both systolic and diastolic blood pressure. This effect is likely due to its ability to enhance nitric oxide production and improve endothelial function. Lower blood pressure reduces the strain on arteries and decreases the risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes.
• Vasodilation and Vascular Tone: Pycnogenol promotes vasodilation, which helps reduce vascular resistance and improve blood flow. This improvement in vascular tone contributes to healthier arteries and better overall cardiovascular health.

5. Anti-atherosclerotic Effects:

• Inhibition of Platelet Aggregation: Pycnogenol has been shown to reduce platelet aggregation, which is the clumping together of platelets in the blood. Excessive platelet aggregation can lead to the formation of blood clots, which can obstruct arteries and cause heart attacks or strokes. By inhibiting this process, Pycnogenol helps reduce the risk of thrombosis and atherosclerosis.
• Improvement of Lipid Profiles: Pycnogenol may also contribute to a healthier lipid profile by reducing LDL cholesterol levels and possibly increasing high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol levels. This improvement in lipid balance helps protect the arteries from plaque formation.

6. Prevention of Cardiovascular Events:

• Reduction of Cardiovascular Risk: The combination of lower blood pressure, reduced oxidative stress, improved endothelial function, and anti-inflammatory effects makes Pycnogenol a powerful supplement for reducing the overall risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes.
• Protection Against Vascular Complications: Pycnogenol’s ability to improve blood flow and reduce the risk of clot formation makes it particularly beneficial for individuals with conditions like diabetes or hypertension, where the risk of vascular complications is higher.