The coronary arteries are responsible for carrying blood to the heart, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP). When a fatty substance called plaque builds up in the arteries, it interferes with blood and oxygen flow. This can cause coronary heart disease (CHD), which can lead to serious health issues such as heart attack. Making changes such as eating better, exercising and taking medications to lower cholesterol can help reduce plaque buildup in the arteries.

Eat Healthy

Eating a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol can minimize plaque buildup in the arteries. The AAFP recommends eating a diet full of whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean meats and poultry and freshwater fish (like salmon and mackerel). Choose dairy products that are low-fat or non-fat. Oils, fats and sweet foods should be limited. Toss out products that contain trans fats, such as margarines and polyunsaturated oils. These foods have been linked to heart disease, high cholesterol and diabetes, according to the AAFP. When cooking, choose olive and canola oil, which are healthy alternatives. White wine vinegar can be used while cooking instead of butter. Egg-free substitutes can also help lower cholesterol levels. If you want to add more flavors to food, use spices (like oregano and rosemary) instead of sour cream or butter. You should also incorporate regular exercise into your routine. Exercise appears to make the heart stronger and decrease high blood pressure and the chance of developing heart disease. Aim for at least 30 minutes of vigorous exercise four to six times weekly.

Stop Smoking

According to the AAFP, smoking raises blood pressure and contributes to the buildup of plaque in the arteries. If you smoke, talk with your doctor about options for quitting. The Mayo Clinic suggests creating a quit-smoking plan, which can include taking prescription medications such as nicotine replacement therapy. Nicotine replacement therapy is available in a patch, gum or lozenges. The goal, according to the Mayo Clinic, is to slowly wean the patient off nicotine dependence. Antidepressants such as Wellbutrin are also used to quit smoking. These medications increase dopamine levels in the brain (which is the same thing nicotine does). Getting support from family members during this time is also important. Over time, giving up smoking will help reduce and prevent additional plaque buildup.

Medication Options

Decreasing the amount of cholesterol in the bloodstream reduces the amount of plaque buildup in the arteries, according to the Mayo Clinic. Cholesterol-modifying medications include statins, fibrates and niacin. Calcium channel blockers are another medication option. They relax the muscles that support the arteries, which allows blood to flow better. Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors are medications that reduce blood pressure and prevent plaque from getting worse.

Source:

American Academy of Family Physicians

Mayo Clinic: Coronary Artery Disease

Mayo Clinic: Quit Smoking Basics

More Information:

Mayo Clinic: Nicotine Dependence