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5 natural methods to cleanse arteries and lower plaque deposits

TIMESOFINDIA.COM | Last updated on - Oct 14, 2025, 09:15 IST
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1/13

5 natural methods to cleanse arteries and lower plaque deposits

The risk of heart related ailments is increasing day by day, and one of its foremost contributors is a condition that is marked with massive accumulation of plaque within the arteries. This plaque consists of bad cholesterol, fatty acids and waste material from the cells, which eventually slows down the flow of blood and clogs the arteries completely. Whereas drugs and surgery are occasionally required to treat established arterial disease, increasingly it is being shown that natural, lifestyle-based methods can reverse plaque deposits. It is to be noted that while a healthy diet may keep the arteries clean and free of deposists, there is no supporting evidence to prove that it can reverse plaque formation. Here are five natural effective methods to assist in clearing the arteries and to maintain long-term cardiovascular health.

​Young, busy, and at cancer risk: Oncologists on lifestyle risks and red flags millennials, Gen Zs should know​

2/13

Reduce alcohol and quit tobacco

Not only is sm​oking bad for the lungs, but also for our heart. It damages the endothelium (thin inner lining of arteries), which is even more vulnerable to plaque formation. The chemicals in tobacco increase blood pressure, lower HDL and lower the risk of heart related illnesses. Similarly, while moderate consumption of alcohol has been said to provide some cardiovascular advantages in certain studies, excessive intake produces the opposite effect. It can increase triglycerides, blood pressure, and plaque buildup

3/13

Minimize stress and promote emotional well-being

​Stress is a causative agent of many lethal diseases and among them is heart disease. Stress is more than a mental burden, it has concrete implications for body, mind and other body organs. Prioritizing stress management is crucial for cardiovascular well-being and activities like meditation, sound sleep and being mindful can decrease biochemical activities leading to the deterioration of heart health and plaque buildup in the arteries...

4/13

Maintain healthy body weight

Healthy weight is the secret to improved heart health. Extra body fat, particularly the one around the belly area, is commonly a marker of higher risk of atherosclerosis and heart diseases. Reducing body weight by just 5-10%, combined with physical exercise, can result in considerable improvement in blood pressure levels, cholesterol levels and can even increase insulin sensitivity.
See more: How to gain weight: Tips on weight gaining through proper diet and nutrition​

5/13

Remain physically active

​Physical exercise daily improves heart muscles and keeps the arteries elastic and reactive. Exercising regularly helps in improved circulation, lowers blood pressure and enhances HDL levels, that is good cholesterol. Brisk walking, cycling, swimming and jogging are best suited for the heart. It is commonly believed that having 150 minutes of exercise can help to make a significant difference in seven days by regulating the weight and helps to improve the sugar level in blood.

6/13

Eat a heart-healthy diet

One of the most effective options for enhancing arterial well-being is what we eat. A naturally high-fiber diet composed of whole foods can decrease inflammation, decrease LDL and enhance overall vascular function. Whole grains like oats and brown rice provide soluble fiber, which assists in binding and excreting cholesterol from the blood. Adding healthy fats to diet can enhance the cholesterol balances in the body. Conversely, excessive quantities of processed foods are dense with trans fats, added sugars and refined carbohydrates must be avoided, since these have been found to hasten arterial plaque development and inflammation
​

7/13

What is the plaque buildup called

Plaque buildup in arteries is called atherosclerosis. It involves the accumulation of fatty deposits, cholesterol, calcium, and other substances on artery walls. This narrows and hardens arteries, restricting blood flow. Chronic inflammation plays a key role in plaque formation, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke.

8/13

Diagnosis of artery blockage

Diagnosis of artery blockage involves a combination of blood tests, ECG, stress tests, and advanced imaging. Blood tests check cholesterol, blood sugar, and inflammation levels, while an ECG detects heart rhythm abnormalities or prior heart damage. Stress tests monitor the heart’s response to physical activity or medication.

9/13

Signs of blocked arteries

Chest pain or discomfort (angina)

Shortness of breath

Fatigue with exertion

Pain in the arms, neck, jaw, or back

Coldness or numbness in extremities

10/13

​Take care of your heart

Take care of your heart with diet, exercise and nutrition

11/13

Stay healthy and exercise

Staying healthy isn’t just about eating right — it’s also about keeping your body active. Regular exercise improves blood circulation, boosts mood, strengthens muscles, and keeps the heart and brain functioning at their best. Even light activities like walking, stretching, or yoga can make a big difference when done consistently. Exercise also helps regulate hormones, reduces stress, and enhances memory and focus, keeping both body and mind in sync.

12/13

Exercise can help

Exercise, and the right diet can help keep heart disease at bay. Regular physical activity strengthens the heart and improves blood circulation.

13/13

Keep fit

Keep fit to keep your heart healthy and arteries free of plaque

Top Comment
D
David Andrew Palanuk
230 days ago
Seriously? Arent these 7 things pretty well known? What I was hoping to leadn was what I thought the headline said the article would address, which was how to lower plaaue deposits. But i suppose i read it as "lower/reduce deposits of existing plaque" as opposed to "lower the volume or frequency of any future plaque deposits made". To my knowledge, theres not really any true way to make the existing deposits get smaller which is what i hoped the article had some magical solution, natural or otherwise...
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