16 Hidden Gem Foods That Work Wonders for Your Arteries

Arteries are the body’s largest blood vessels, and they play a major role in supplying blood to different parts of the body.

There are several ways to keep these ‘pipes’ clean and healthy, and perhaps the best way to start is with a healthy diet.

Let’s talk about these 16 foods that can keep your arteries clean and healthy and that you should definitely add to your diet.

Flax Seed

Thanks to high fiber, omega 3s, and antioxidant compounds called lignans, flaxseeds are great for keeping the body’s arteries clean.

Citrus Fruits

Loaded with polyphenol compounds and flavonoids, citrus fruits are good at regulating the ‘not-so-good’ LDL cholesterol, which in turn aids the health of your arteries.

Berries

With high amounts of quercetin and anthocyanin polyphenols, berries offer antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which are great for the arteries.

Olive Oil

Extra virgin olive oil carries a mighty source of polyphenol antioxidant compounds and monounsaturated fatty acids, which are known to increase the healthy HDL cholesterol and decrease the unhealthy LDL cholesterol.

Fatty Fish

Fish such as sardines, salmon, mackerel, and anchovies are packed with omega-3s that are protective against vascular inflammation.

Pulses

Pulses such as chickpeas, lentils, beans, and peas are high in soluble fiber, which is great at lowering LDL cholesterol and preventing atherosclerosis or the clogging up of arteries.

Avocados

Much like olive oil, avocados also contain high levels of monounsaturated fatty acids. These compounds along with the fiber content they boast are great for stablizing blood sugar and keeping the arteries healthy.

Allium Vegetables

Garlic, onions, leeks, chives, scallions, and shallots are great sources of organosulfur compounds, which are great for the arteries in that they reduce inflammation and cholesterol, keeping blood pressure in check.

Tomatoes

Cooked tomatoes are especially high in the lycopene compound, which has been associated with an increase in the ‘good’ HDL cholesterol.

Walnuts

Walnuts are a rich source of fiber, protein, and healthy fats, and due to omega-3s, they are great for your heart and artery health.

Cruciferous Vegetables

Brussels sprouts, broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, and arugula are all packed with fiber and organosulfur compounds that can maintain a healthy artery system in the body.

Beets

Beets are high in nitric oxides, which are known to widen blood vessels. This can lower blood pressure and, in turn, prevent artery damage.

Green Tea

Green tea’s polyphenol compounds, known as catechins, have powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.

Leafy Greens

Much like beetroot, spinach also contains nitrate ovides and other micronutrients, such as folates, which aid cardiovascular health.

Dark Chocolate

Dark chocolate is not only delicious, but it turns out that it also contains polyphenol compounds, which can aid blood pressure, lower inflammation, and prevent blood clots. Be sure to go for at least 70% cocoa dark chocolate to reap these benefits!

Spices

Spices such as chili, ginger, cinnamon, and pepper contain anti-inflammatory compounds that can improve artery function by reducing free radicals, improving blood lipid levels, and reducing the clumping together of blood platelets. These spices can be added to savory or sweet meals to give them a simple power-up.

Experts Warn People to Never Refrigerate These 15 Food Items

Refrigeration prevents spoilage and may extend the shelf life of common foods and other perishable items. While we may innocently store some foods in the refrigerator, you may be surprised that you shouldn’t store all of them, as this may affect their nutritional value, taste, and texture. 

Although refrigeration can help preserve certain foods, some items shouldn’t be refrigerated to maintain flavor and freshness. Avoiding these foods can ensure your food stays nutritious, fresh, and flavorful. 

Here are 15 food items experts warn people never to refrigerate for optimal flavor and freshness.

Experts Warn People to Never Refrigerate These 15 Food Items

3 Foods Dogs Shouldn’t Eat

We all love our furry friends and wouldn’t mind sharing tiny bits and pieces of food when we’re eating. While this may all be innocent, and you may be giving your dog foods that are okay, certain foods can be poisonous to dogs.

Dogs may react differently to food depending on the type, ingested amount, and size.

Read on as we discuss the three common foods dogs shouldn’t eat.

3 Foods Dogs Shouldn’t Eat