Does Anything Dissolve Plaque in Arteries?
When it comes to the health of our arteries, plaque buildup is a major concern.
Plaque is a waxy substance that can form in the walls of our arteries, leading to a narrowing of the arteries and increasing the risk of stroke, heart attack, and other cardiovascular diseases. But is there anything that can dissolve this plaque?
The answer is no. Plaque cannot be dissolved. However, there are steps that can be taken to shrink and stabilize the plaque. According to Dr. Christopher Cannon, a cardiologist and professor at Harvard Medical School, “Making plaque disappear is not possible, but we can shrink and stabilize it.”
The key to shrinking and stabilizing plaque is to lower LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol and make lifestyle changes. LDL cholesterol is the type of cholesterol that can build up in the walls of our arteries and form plaque. Therefore, reducing LDL cholesterol is essential for reducing plaque buildup.
To lower LDL cholesterol, you should eat a healthy diet that is low in saturated fat and cholesterol, and high in fiber and other nutrients. You should also exercise regularly and maintain a healthy weight. Additionally, you may need to take medications to lower your cholesterol levels.
In addition to reducing LDL cholesterol, lifestyle changes can also help to shrink and stabilize plaque. Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can increase the risk of plaque buildup, so it is important to quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption. It is also important to manage stress and get enough sleep.
In conclusion, while it is not possible to dissolve plaque in arteries, there are steps that can be taken to shrink and stabilize it. Lowering LDL cholesterol and making lifestyle changes are key to reducing plaque buildup and improving your cardiovascular health.