Atherosclerosis (AS) can not only be prevented, but is also reversible if certain measures are taken into consideration and acted upon:

• A high-fat diet is the main risk factor. Diets high in fat increase circulating cholesterol and triglycerides, which cause the formation of atherosclerotic plaque inside the arteries.

• Uncontrolled hypertension is well-known to increase cardio-circulatory damage. Blood pressure levels higher than 140/90 contribute to AS. Currently these levels are considered borderline at best, and efforts should be made to attain lower levels.

• Smoking: in the United States, cigarette smoke causes 180,000 deaths a year due to vascular conditions.   Statistically a smoker lives seven years less than a non-smoker.

• Diabetes control: this disease causes circulatory problems, increasing the risk of AS.

• Weight control: being overweight places an excessive burden on the heart and limits exercise activity

• Practicing regular physical exercise: exercise reduces cholesterol and blood pressure levels and keeps the cardio-circulatory system in good condition

• Reducing stress and depression: these mental states often lead to higher blood pressure levels which tend to become chronic, and indirectly, to increased appetite, hypertension and lack of exercise.

• Genetic history: learning whether your family has a history of circulatory diseases may help prevent the onset of AS.