May Ease Symptoms of Atherosclerosis
Atherosclerosis refers to the narrowing of blood vessels or arteries resulting from plaque build-up. As a result, it slows down or obstructs blood flow and the delivery of nutrients and oxygen to various parts of the body from the heart. It’s also possible for blood clots to form due to plaque breaking off, and without treatment, the condition may lead to strokes, heart attacks, heart failure, and other life-threatening complications.
Often, the symptoms of the condition won’t appear until blockages occur. These include angina or chest pain, discomfort in body parts where arteries are blocked, buttocks cramping when walking, breathlessness, fatigue, confusion, and muscle weakness. While a common issue linked to aging, it can be prevented with diets low in cholesterol and saturated fats, quitting smoking, managing stress, maintaining a healthy weight, and getting enough exercise.
Some medications that can keep the disease from worsening are statins and other cholesterol-reducing drugs, ACE inhibitors and beta-blockers, and antiplatelet drugs. Moreover, certain foods can ease its symptoms, such as reishi mushrooms, which can minimize breathlessness and chest pains associated with the condition. Some report that it can treat clogged arteries, but more studies are needed to verify whether or not they’re true.
