Atherosclerosis, or hardening of the arteries, occurs when the inside walls of an artery become thicker and less elastic. The thickening reduces the area available for blood flow. Although atherosclerosis reveals few symptoms at first, the damaged artery eventually cannot carry enough blood to supply the necessary amount of oxygen. The result is often a stroke or heart attack. About 1 million people die as a result of atherosclerosis each year in the United States.

Nutrition


Vitamins and Minerals
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin E
- Coenzyme Q10
- Selenium
- Lipioc acid
- Essential fatty acids * decrease saturated fats and trans fatty acids
- Folic acid
- B6
- B12
- Betaine
- Chromium: may result in plaque reduction
- Magnesium: decreases arrhythmia, angina, and death rates following heart attack, especially when given potassium
- Bromelian: stops platelets from sticking togther and breaks down plaque
- Carnitine: important fatty acid metabolism, depleted in cardiac muscle during acute heart attacks

Herbs
- Hawthorn (Crataegus oxycantha): prevents cholesterol deposits and improves blood flow
- Ginkgo (Ginkgo Biloba): helps keep arteries clear and keeps platelets from sticking together
- Rosemary (Rosemariana officinalis): increases coronary artery blood flow
- Gentian (Gentiana lutea): bitter, digestive tonic, historically used for smoking cessation, avoid with ulcers

Hawthorn or ginkgo are recommended for treating atherosclerosis. Concentrated extracts may be required to achieve the recommended doses. In addition, a tincture or tea of one to four of the above herbs, taken before meals, may be helpful. Click on any of the above herbs for tinctures. Scroll down for other products.

Beneficial Foods:
- Garlic
- Ginger
- Onions
- Fiber
- Fruits
- Vegetables
- Protein from vegetarian source

Products
Suzanne's Super Antioxidant Formula
Suzanne's Flax Seed Oil
Solaray Magnesium
Solaray L-Carnitine
Solaray Hawthorn Special Formula
Solaray Ginkgo Biloba Extract
Solaray Refresh