‘How can I remove plaque from my arteries naturally?’

The concept of “cleaning” arteries through natural methods, such as garlic, turmeric, or fish oil, is popular online, but the truth is more nuanced. Atherosclerosis, or plaque buildup in the arteries, is a gradual process that can elevate the risk of heart attack and stroke. While lifestyle changes can help slow this progression, they cannot eliminate existing plaque.

Dr Punya Pratap, a consultant cardiologist, explains that regular exercise, a balanced diet, weight control, quitting smoking, and managing blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar are the most effective ways to reduce cardiovascular risk. Exercise improves various health markers and may stabilize plaque formation, but it cannot physically remove plaque.

Certain dietary choices, like consuming more vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and healthy fats, while reducing processed foods, excess salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats, can also aid in controlling risk factors. However, claims about garlic, turmeric, or fish oil naturally cleaning plaque have no solid evidence and should not replace proven medical treatments.

It's crucial to monitor LDL cholesterol, blood pressure, and blood sugar within recommended ranges, with targets tailored to individual factors. Symptoms indicating reduced blood flow, such as chest pain, breathlessness, sweating, or leg pain, warrant urgent medical attention. Lifestyle changes are vital for everyone, but they may not suffice if cholesterol, blood pressure, or diabetes remain uncontrolled, or if significant artery disease is present.

Doctors may prescribe medication and, in some cases, procedures to improve blood flow. Rather than seeking a quick "artery cleanse," focusing on managing the factors that contribute to plaque buildup is the primary goal. Anyone experiencing symptoms or diagnosed with artery disease should consult a healthcare professional for appropriate treatment rather than relying on supplements or home remedies.