While vitamin C doesn't directly "remove" existing plaque, studies suggest it can improve blood vessel function, help stabilize plaques, and support collagen formation, which strengthens artery walls, particularly in deficient individuals, though benefits in humans are mixed and often seen with combination therapies like Vitamin C and E, especially in those with existing issues or low baseline levels, indicating a role in preventing progression rather than reversal.
Making plaque disappear is not possible, but with lifestyle changes and medication they can shrink and stabilize. Doctors especially want to target the softer plaques before they rupture.
Optimal Vitamin K2 intake is crucial to avoid the calcium plaque buildup of atherosclerosis, thus keeping the risk and rate of calcification as low as possible. Matrix GLA protein (MGP)—found in the tissues of the heart, kidneys, and lungs—plays a dominant role in vascular calcium metabolism.
As a powerful antioxidant, the potential role of vitamin C in reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease may be attributed to its ability to neutralize harmful free radicals, and in turn reduce oxidative stress.
Coronary artery calcification (CAC) and especially progression in CAC is a strong predictor of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and cardiovascular mortality. Vitamin K2 is thought to inhibit vascular calcification through many different mechanisms.
Is Vitamin K2 Dangerous? In general, vitamin K2 is considered safe when consumed as part of a balanced diet or in the form of dietary supplements at recommended doses. No serious side effects have been associated with this vitamin, even at relatively high doses.
(D)CoQ10 also reduces foam cell formation and decreases plaque size by promoting reverse cholesterol transport through ABCG1 and ABCA1.
Very high doses of vitamin D3, vitamin A, vitamin B3 and vitamin C have all been shown to promote blood thinning and negatively interact with some patients on warfarin.
Importantly, multiple studies have documented increases in cardiovascular risk associated with the use of supplemental vitamin C, even when taken in doses of about 1000 mg per day, which is half of the established Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL) of 2000 mg [19,23].
Vitamin C has low toxicity and is not believed to cause serious adverse effects at high intakes [8]. The most common complaints are diarrhea, nausea, abdominal cramps, and other gastrointestinal disturbances due to the osmotic effect of unabsorbed vitamin C in the gastrointestinal tract [4,8].
Brushing with baking soda can safely and effectively remove plaque. While still abrasive, baking soda toothpaste is not as hard as the enamel that makes up teeth and can remove plaque without damaging the enamel.
However, advanced atherosclerosis, defined as complex plaque with fibrosis and calcification, may not be completely reversible with currently available therapies12. Thus, the best chance to prevent and “cure” atherosclerosis may occur in young individuals before complex and potentially irreversible plaque can develop.
The limonene in orange peels is known for breaking down plaque while the vitamin C can help combat microorganisms that contribute to plaque.
They're caused by high cholesterol, smoking, genetics, and a diet high in unhealthy fats. Symptoms of clogged arteries can include fatigue, shortness of breath, dizziness, and chest pain.
Although fully hardened plaque won't go away without dental intervention, it's possible to manage plaque as it builds up, before it hardens, and it's also possible to prevent plaque buildup from happening at all. If you notice that your teeth feel fuzzy when you run your tongue across them, you're noticing plaque.
Exercise Regularly
Physical workout is the foundation of non-surgical heart blockage treatment. Plan to start aerobic activities such as brisk walking, swimming, and cycling at least 2-3 hours a week. Add resistance training to your routine to strengthen the heart and muscles.
Vitamin C is a very powerful antioxidant and is essential for the formation of collagen and optimum extracellular matrix (ECM) [10,11]. It has been demonstrated to prevent lipoprotein deposition and development of atherosclerosis by protecting the integrity and strength of the vascular wall [12].
Vitamin C supplementation is contraindicated in blood disorders like thalassemia, G6PD deficiency, sickle cell disease, and hemochromatosis. Avoid taking supplements immediately before or following angioplasty. Diabetic patients should take vitamin C supplements with care as it raises blood sugar levels.
You should be able to get all the vitamin C you need by eating a varied and balanced diet. If you take vitamin C supplements, do not take too much as this could be harmful. Taking less than 1,000mg of vitamin C supplements a day is unlikely to cause any harm.
Taking too much vitamin C can cause side effects, including:
There isn't one single "strongest" natural blood thinner, as several herbs and foods like garlic, ginger, turmeric, cayenne pepper, and ginkgo biloba have antiplatelet or anticoagulant properties, but their strength varies and research is ongoing. These natural options can slow blood clotting by affecting platelets or other factors, but they aren't a substitute for prescription blood thinners and can increase bleeding risk, especially with medications like warfarin. Always consult your doctor before using them.
Prevention. Scurvy can be prevented by a diet that includes uncooked vitamin C-rich foods such as amla, bell peppers (sweet peppers), blackcurrants, broccoli, chili peppers, citrus fruits (lemon, lime, orange, etc), kiwifruit, and parsley.
CoQ10 may improve congestive heart failure symptoms. Although findings are mixed, CoQ10 might help lower blood pressure. Some research also suggests that when taken with other nutrients, CoQ10 might help people recover from bypass and heart valve surgeries.
Sadly there aren't yet any proven supplements that unclog arteries. However, holistic remedies like fish oil can be used to great effect in disease prevention. Also, advancements in cardiology are being made daily. It is never too late to care for your heart!
Organ meats.
CoQ10 is present in cells throughout your body, especially in your vital organs. This means animal organ meats have the highest amounts of CoQ10 per 100 grams. For instance, a beef heart has 11.3 milligrams, and a beef liver has 3.9 milligrams.