Often when we talk about heart disease and the management of cardiac risk factors, plaque is one of the foremost topics of conversation.
According to the National Institutes of Health, plaque is made of multiple components found in the blood such as cholesterol, calcium, fat, and sodium. The substance can build up in one's arteries and lead to a number of harmful conditions, such as stroke or atherosclerosis. With that in mind, take a look at these helpful tips for limiting plaque:
Be aware of your lifestyle
Taking a careful inventory of your lifestyle and any harmful behaviors can be vital to the success of your cardiac health and the limitation of plaque. A great way to do this is by speaking with your doctor about your day-to-day life and your general health. He or she can advise you on what behaviors to limit and modify. According to the American Heart Association, your doctor may also prescribe medications to reduce plaque or lower cholesterol.
Whether or not you choose to see a doctor to discuss your concerns about plaque, eating a heart-healthy diet is always a good idea. Try avoiding unhealthy fast foods and fried items, as these tend to be heavier in sodium and fat, which can contribute to plaque buildup. Further, you can replace processed snacks with healthy alternatives, such as fruits and vegetables, to benefit your cardiac health. If you don't know where to begin, consider seeing a nutritionist.