Treating Atherosclerosis: Herbs, Diet and Life style Modifications to Manage Atherosclerosis

As per the National Health Interview Survey, Centre for Disease Control, estimated prevalence of atherosclerosis 17 per 1000 population in United States. Atherosclerosis increases the risk of cardiovascular disorders like myocardial infraction and strokes. Including some simple herbs and foods in your diet has been found effective in averting the condition and also improving cardiac health.

What is Atherosclerosis?

Development of Atherosclerosis

A syndrome characterized by chronic inflammation of the linings of the arterial walls, due to accumulation of plaque. Plaque may comprise of lipoproteins, white blood cells, platelets, calcium or toxins, etc. The inflammation causes narrowing of the arteries along with hardening of the arterial wall, both of which may result in reduced flow of blood to the most distant parts of the circulatory system, which in turn forces the heart to pump harder, resulting in elevated blood pressure levels.

Herbs and Diet for Controlling Atherosclerosis

Diet is the critical element for control and management of some of the chronic disease conditions. To control atherosclerosis include some of the following in your daily diet, as these act as good natural remedies to fight atherosclerosis and keep the heart healthy

1.  Garlic: Garlic is an amazing food prescription that provides protection against atherosclerosis and heart diseases. Studies have revealed that garlic reduces the total serum cholesterol level and increases the HDL level in the blood. Garlic is also an important anti-hypertensive. The herb is potent enough to lower the systolic blood pressure by 8 mmHg and the diastolic blood pressure by 5 mmHg. Consuming 2 to 5 pods of the herb daily is recommended. Also, always chop the garlic flakes and let them sit for 5 to 7 minutes. This is very essential, since, it takes that much time for the vital enzymes from the garlic to be released.



Celery to treat atherosclerosis

2. Bell Peppers: Bell peppers reduce the levels of cholesterol in the blood. Furthermore, peppers also prevent platelet aggregation and prevent clot formation, thus reducing the risk of heart attack and stroke. These qualities are attributed to the flavanoid (an anti-oxidant) and vitamin C content of the bell peppers. Bell pepper is also believed to assists in Weight loss. 
3. Celery: Research and clinical trials have confirmed that celery helps lower blood pressure levels. Courmarin found in celery tones up the entire vascular system of the body and keeps blood pressure in check. A volunteer for the clinical trial consumed 115 grams of celery every day for 1 week. The trial demonstrated significant results. His blood pressure dropped from 158/96 mmHg to 118/82 mmHg.

 Life Style Modifications to treat Atherosclerosis

Though diet plays a crucial role in regulating and normalizing the levels of Triglycerides and Cholesterol in the blood and reducing the detrimental effects of atherosclerosis, some crucial life style modifications are required

• Smoking and consumption of alcohol is closely linked with increased risk of developing atherosclerosis.
• Regular exercise is the key to ensure burn down of cholesterol and fat which in turn reduces the risk of atherosclerosis and hypertension.
• Meditation and Yoga techniques have been found highly effective against management of stress and incorporating them as a part of routine life can enhance overall health and reduce the risk of developing atherosclerosis and improves heart health
• Avoid the indiscriminate use of over the counter medications. Though not directly linked to atherosclerosis, overuse of modern medicine can be harmful. 

Cure Cancer with Foods and Herbs: Cancer Diet for Treatment of Cancer

Nutritional support to a cancer patient ought to be optimum. Radiotherapy and chemotherapy can have adverse effects like – fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting. Various research studies have proven that these foods and herbs are very effective in management of cancer. Following these dietary guidelines will greatly improve the nutritional status and help combat cancer.



Top Foods to Cure Cancer: Prevent Cancer with Cancer Foods

Broccoli improtant

to prevent cancer

Cancer is a condition characterized by excessive multiplication of abnormal cells in the body. Certain foods have profound effect on limiting and even destroying abnormal malignant cells.

1. Cruciferous foods : Cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, kale, and Brussels sprouts belong to the cruciferous family. These vegetables offer significant anti-cancer benefits. Compounds called glucosinolates and sulphoraphane increase the excretion of that form of estrogen that is linked to breast cancer. Research and laboratory examinations have also demonstrated that sulphoraphane extracts can drastically reduce the size, frequency, and numbers of tumors. They exert a very powerful anti-oxidant effect. These compounds also enhance the liver detoxification processes.It is recommended that 1 kg of cruciferous vegetables should be consumed per week, to significantly cut the risk of developing cancer.


2. Tomatoes: Lycopene found in tomatoes are powerful anti-oxidants and anti-cancer agents. Lycopene neutralizes the harmful oxygen free radicals before they can damage cellular structures. Boost your daily intake of tomato, have juices, soups, and salads. The redder the tomato, the greater is the content of lycopene in them. Also, eating a tomato with a source of oil, such as olive oil, increases the absorption enormously.

Herbs for Cancer: Herbal Remedies for Treatment of Cancer

Some herbs have beneficial effect on breast cancer prevention and treatment

1. Turmeric:Curcumin, the yellow pigment found in turmeric , is a potent anti-oxidants which plays a crucial role in protecting the healthy cells in the body from free radical damage. Clinical trials have revealed that turmeric helps the body, to destroy mutated cancer cells, so that they can not spread through the body, and cause more harm. Another important study conducted, stated that increasing the consumption of turmeric helps to lower the injurious effects of second hand smoke, which is an important environmental factor responsible for the occurrence of breast cancer. Additionally, turmeric has been reported to prevent the formation of new blood vessels which feed the tumor cells. It also aids in the liver’s detoxification process to get rid of cancer causing compounds. It is advocated that, you add, the fresh grated herb to your meals or season the meals with a spoonful of the powder.








Gralic fights toxins

and protects cells



2. Flax seeds: Lignans present in flax seeds offer noteworthy anti-cancer benefits. A study demonstrated, that adding flax seeds to the diet helps reduce the estrogen levels in the body. Reducing the estrogen level, reduces breast cancer. Furthermore, experts say, enhancing the dietary intake of flax seeds also makes the cancerous growths shrink. Additionally, flax seeds are a very good source of omega 3 fatty acids, and are strongly recommended. Ground flax seeds can be added to the breakfast cereal, smoothie, or to the flour to make breads, cakes, and muffins.


3. Garlic: Allicin, a compound found in garlic, protects the cells from toxic chemicals and free radicals. They also help stop the growth of the cancer cells once they develop. 2 or more servings of the herb, per week have been proved to be therapeutic. Always remember to peel, chop, and let the garlic sit for about 10 minutes. Immediate cooking of the herb doesn’t allow the potent anti-cancer enzymes to be released.

Cancer Diet: Dietary Guidelines for Cancer Patients on Therapy

1. Eat small and frequent meals. Take small bites and chew completely.


2. Stay well hydrated. Drink 2 to 3 liters of water daily. Incorporate fresh vegetable and fruit juices. Without adequate fluids, the body can not detoxify the drugs of chemotherapy. A build up of the drugs, causes added discomfort. What’s more, liquids also remove the metabolic by products of the fight against cancer and dead cell debris. A lemon detox diet is considered beneficial in the eliminating the chemical accumulates in the body.


3. A high protein smoothie is advocated. Cancer patients need a serving of high quality protein, especially, if they are showing signs of cachexia (excessive weight loss). Protein promotes recovery, helps maintain muscle mass and protects the gastro-intestinal lining. Importantly, it boosts the immune mechanisms and prevents the development of opportunistic infections. Whey protein is ideal. It has the highest biological value and has immense therapeutic benefits for an individual suffering from cancer.  


4. Ginger tea is recommended to people who have nausea and vomiting.  


5. Avoid any tea, coffee, alcohol, and aerated beverages. They dehydrate you.