The Best Diet for Vascular Disease and Clogged Arteries

Most of us know that a healthy diet keeps our waistline in check and our risk for disease low, but did you know that eating just three or more servings of fruits and vegetables a day can help reduce your risk of vascular disease?

A study conducted by the New York University School of Medicine studied over 3.7 million patients and found that those who eat three or more servings of fruits and vegetables a day were significantly less likely to develop peripheral artery disease.

Early Diagnosis and Prevention

As we age, it becomes very important to catch vascular problems early, to prevent strokes or the need for amputation. You can control your cardiovascular health by eating a few servings of fruits or vegetables a day and exercising a few times a week. 

We need to increase the nutrition status in our country. We spend so much time thinking about the latest drugs and technologies -- we need to spend more time thinking about lifestyle -- especially sufficient fruit and vegetable intake," - Jeff Berger NYU leading researcher in the study. 

Plant Based Diet Decrease Risk of Vascular Disease

You have control over your vascular health. The study that found a link between a healthy diet and reduced risk of arterial disease examined over 3.7 million patients, and concluded that those who ate at least three servings of vegetables or fruit per day had significantly fewer incidents of peripheral artery disease, or PAD. While it may seem impossible to consume a plant-based diet, it's more manageable when you start off slowly.

Start by incorporating one additional whole fruit or vegetable in your diet, like eating an apple or sliced cucumber. There are also countless resources online for you to learn about low-carb swaps for things like rice and pasta, and which nutrients are found in which foods.

This was a longitudinal study with participants being both male and female with a median age of 64. Percentages eating three servings of fruits and vegetables at various frequencies were as follows:

• Daily: 29.2%
• 4-5 times/week: 22.9%
• 2-3 times/week 25.9%
• Once/week to once/month: 15.0%
• Less than once monthly: 7.1%

The study concluded that people who eat three or more portions of fruit and vegetables per day have an 18% lower risk of developing PAD than those who report eating less, according to a study published in Arteriosclerosis, Thrombosis and Vascular Biology, an American Heart Association journal.

Schedule A Consultation

You have more control of your vascular health by consuming more fruits and vegetables. There is a certain threshold where a patient must seek medical attention before the disease progresses. 

The Center for Vascular Medicine is your resource for effective, minimally-invasive treatment in the Maryland and Northern Virginia areas. We are a team of experienced, skilled professionals who specialize in identifying and treating vascular conditions. Each of our offices is equipped with advanced diagnostic and interventional medical technology needed to deliver the care our patients need. We also work closely with local hospitals for patients who may need more advanced treatment.If you would like to explore your treatment options or you have any questions, contact Center for Vascular Medicine.