Progressive arterial disease caused by plaque buildup reducing blood flow.
Progressive hardening and narrowing of arteries due to plaque accumulation containing lipids, inflammatory cells, and fibrous tissue, restricting blood flow.
Atherosclerosis develops through chronic endothelial injury from hypertension, hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia, and smoking, triggering inflammation and lipid oxidation. Oxidized LDL cholesterol accumulates in arterial walls, attracting macrophages that transform into foam cells forming fatty streaks. Over decades, these streaks develop into fibrous plaques with lipid cores that can rupture, causing thrombosis and acute vascular events. Risk factors include age, male sex, family history, and metabolic disorders. Nutritional interventions emphasizing antioxidant-rich foods, anti-inflammatory nutrients, and cardiovascular protective compounds significantly slow disease progression.
Results from cumulative cardiovascular risk factors, requiring aggressive nutritional intervention to prevent acute vascular events.
Adopt Mediterranean diet pattern emphasizing olive oil, fatty fish, nuts, and plant-based foods rich in antioxidants. Ensure adequate intake of vitamins C and E, selenium, and polyphenols. Maintain blood pressure and glucose control through nutrition and exercise while avoiding smoking.
Atherosclerosis prevention and progression management require sustained Mediterranean-style dietary patterns combined with cardiovascular risk factor control.
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