Q:
My wife’s doctor recently warned her that she was at risk for atherosclerosis. Should we be making any changes to our diet?
Jeff S., Annapolis, MD
A:
Atherosclerosis is a condition in which fatty material is deposited along the walls of arteries. It is a major cause of cardiovascular health problems in modern society. In addition to aging, a diet high in total and saturated fat, high cholesterol levels, a sedentary lifestyle, hypertension (high blood pressure) and diabetes can increase your risk of developing atherosclerosis.
Atherosclerosis stems from atherogenesis, the process involving inflammation of the arteries. Although the mechanism of atherogenesis is complex and not yet fully understood, damage to the endothelium (lining of your blood vessels) is thought to be caused by cells of the immune system and LDL, or “bad” cholesterol. When cholesterol, fats and white blood cells build up in your artery walls, this causes other cells to activate and accumulate in the area. The process then repeats itself as more immune cells are attracted to the site, causing your blood vessels to thicken and become inflamed.
Eating a diet rich in vitamin E (found in foods like nuts, seeds, and oils) and fatty fish (which contain polyunsaturated ― omega-3 ― fatty acids) may reduce your risk of atherosclerosis. Avoid smoking too, since it greatly worsens atherosclerosis and speeds its growth in the coronary arteries, the aorta, and arteries in the legs. And, be sure to fit in regular exercise, which can improve circulation.