Endothelial malfunction is the main cause for atherosclerosis. Arterial blockage increases the risk of stroke, congestive heart failure, and heart attack. Cocoa polyphenols, bioavailable superoxide dismutase, and pomegranate help the arteries from being damaged by enhancing endothelial function.
Pomegranate has influential antioxidant properties that protect the heart and blood vessels. Pomegranate juice reduces atherosclerotic properties, and reduces arterial plaque progression. Anthocyanins, Punicalagins, and tannins present in pomegranate acts as antioxidant and reduce cardiovascular diseases. Cocoa polyphenols enhance endothelial function, improve the free flow of blood, and prevents oxidation of LDL's.
Cocoa has a high concentration of flavonoids. Epicatechin and catechin are the predominant flavanols, which help with the circulation of blood. Cocoa flavanols enhance endothelial function by improving nitric oxide bioactivity and reduces blood clot formation. These compounds reduce the oxidation of LDL and prevent atherosclerotic plaques in arteries.
A solid arteriosclerosis diet for the avoidance of heart conditions ought to incorporate high amounts of foods, which are high in fiber and cancer prevention agents, however in the meantime, low in fat and calories. Fresh foods grown from the ground grains like oats, wheat grain, tan rice, grain, millet, wheat germ, and legumes like lentil and beans. Almonds, pistachios and flax seed prevent atherosclerosis. Fishes such as salmon contains an ample amount of omega-3-fatty acids and is helpful in improved blood flow.Monosaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids help eradicate atherosclerosis.
Accumulation of atherosclerotic plaques can be prevented by maintaining optimal endothelial function. Powerful natural cancer prevention agent sources like cocoa and pomegranate have been demonstrated to improve cardiovascular health. In a few studies, pomegranate and cocoa has been demonstrated to reduce atherosclerosis, lower blood pressure, and enhance endothelial capacity in individuals with coronary illness and diabetes.
References
Nitenberg A. Hypertension, endothelial dysfunction and cardiovascular risk. Arch Mal Coeur Vaiss. 2006 Oct; 99(10):915-21.
Heiss C, Dejam A, Kleinbongard P, et al. Vascular effects of cocoa rich in flavan-3-ols. JAMA. 2003 Aug 27; 290 (8):1030-1.
Aviram M, Rosenblat M, Gaitini D, et al. Pomegranate juice consumption for 3 years by patients with carotid artery stenosis reduces common carotid intima-media thickness, blood pressure and LDL oxidation. Clinical Nutrition. 2004 Jun; 23(3):423-33.
Ignarro LJ, Byrns RE, Sumi D, de Nigris F, Napoli C. Pomegranate juice protects nitric oxide against oxidative destruction and enhances the biological actions of nitric oxide. Nitric Oxide. 2006 Sep; 15(2): 93-102.
