Healthy Diet Tips for Managing Atherosclerosis

If you're dealing with atherosclerosis, making smart dietary choices is essential for managing the condition and improving heart health. One of the first steps is adopting a low-salt diet. It's recommended to limit daily sodium intake to no more than 6 grams to help reduce blood pressure and ease strain on the cardiovascular system.

Choose Healthy Fats

Switching to a low-fat diet that includes healthy plant-based oils can make a significant difference. Oils such as corn oil, peanut oil, canola oil, olive oil, and soybean oil are excellent options that support heart health. These oils contain unsaturated fats that can help lower bad cholesterol levels.

Foods to Avoid

High-Fat and High-Cholesterol Foods

It's important to avoid animal fats, fatty cuts of meat, and organ meats, which are high in saturated fat and cholesterol. Additionally, limit your intake of foods like egg yolks, crab roe, fish roe, squid, coconut oil, cream, and fried foods. These items can contribute to plaque buildup in the arteries and should be consumed sparingly.

Best Protein Sources

Lean meats such as chicken, beef, duck, and fish are better choices. Among these, fish stands out as the best option due to its low cholesterol and high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to promote heart health. Incorporating more fish into your meals can be a powerful strategy for managing atherosclerosis.

Plant-Based Options

Legumes and soy products are also beneficial. Tofu, soy milk, mung beans, peas, lentils, peanuts, and walnuts are all great sources of plant-based protein and healthy fats. These foods can help reduce cholesterol and provide essential nutrients.

Load Up on Fruits and Vegetables

Consuming a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables is crucial. These foods are rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber that support overall cardiovascular health. Potassium-rich fruits like bananas, oranges, and navel oranges are especially beneficial for maintaining healthy blood pressure levels.