Blocked blood vessels occur when plaque gradually builds up inside arteries, narrowing the vessel lumen and obstructing blood flow. This process often progresses silently over many years, linked to high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes, and being overweight. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle while controlling these risk factors can limit plaque formation.

Limit foods that raise cholesterol

According to Eating Well, diets high in saturated fat and trans fat can increase bad cholesterol, which promotes plaque formation. Fatty meats, processed meats, fried foods, and some packaged foods should be limited.

Individuals should prioritize heart-healthy foods such as fish, nuts, vegetable oils, vegetables, fruits, beans, and whole grains. This dietary approach helps reduce unhealthy fats and increases fiber intake.

Manage blood pressure, blood sugar, and weight

Persistently high blood sugar, especially in individuals with diabetes, is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Being overweight or obese often accompanies high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and blood sugar disorders. Therefore, maintaining an appropriate weight and controlling blood sugar helps reduce factors that promote blood vessel damage.

Sustained high blood pressure puts significant strain on artery walls, potentially damaging the inner lining of blood vessels and accelerating atherosclerosis. As plaque grows, it narrows the vessel lumen, obstructing blood flow and increasing the risk of blockages.

Scientific eating supports blood vessel health. Photo: Bui Thuy

Increase physical activity

Regular exercise boosts blood circulation and helps manage blood pressure, cholesterol, and weight—all factors linked to atherosclerosis. As plaque accumulates and develops, it can narrow the vessel lumen, obstructing blood flow. Individuals should maintain consistent physical activity like brisk walking, cycling, swimming, or exercises suitable for their physical condition to protect blood vessel health and reduce the risk of blockages, according to Times of India.

Quit smoking, avoid secondhand smoke

Nicotine and toxins in tobacco damage the blood vessel endothelium, allowing cholesterol and other substances to accumulate and form plaque. Inhaling smoke also increases inflammation and oxidative stress, promoting plaque development and gradually narrowing the vessel lumen.

By Le Nguyen (Compiled)