Updated: 14-04-2025
Did you know about the Atherosclerosis Diet?
Atherosclerosis is a condition in which cholesterol, calcium, and biochemical waste are deposited in the walls of blood vessels.
It is an underlying cause of most heart attacks and strokes.
Atherosclerosis Diet
A low-calorie, complex carbohydrate, normal protein, restricted fat, low sodium and potassium, high fibre, high vitamin and mineral diet should be provided.
- Whole milk should be avoided.
- HDL (high-density lipoprotein) is good cholesterol that helps to prevent atherosclerosis.
- Omega-3 fatty acids should be included, which protect the heart from clots and inflammation and reduce the risk of heart strokes.
- Drinks and alcohol will raise blood pressure and triglyceride levels. Hence, it should be restricted.
- Salt should be taken in low amounts.
- Potassium should be restricted as it results in an irregular heartbeat and may result in death.
- Hence, leached fruits and vegetables should be given.
Foods to be included for the Atherosclerosis Diet
Deep sea fish, omega-3 fish oil like salmon and tuna, soy milk, almonds, oatmeal, oat bran (contains high amounts of soluble fibre), brown rice, wheat pasta, and legumes such as kidney beans, lentils, and chickpeas can also be included.
Foods to be avoided for the atherosclerosis diet
Saturated fats, trans fats, cholesterol, refined carbohydrates like sugary foods, soft drinks, sweet baked foods, and salt were avoided.
Whole milk dairy products, including yoghurt, cheese, ice cream, margarine, fried foods, egg yoghurt, and organ meats, are not to be included.
Sample diet for atherosclerosis
| Timings | Menu | Serving |
| Early morning | Black tea | 1 Cup |
| Breakfast | Rice flour dosa | 2 no’s |
| Tomato chutney | 1/2 serving | |
| Mid-morning | Apple | 1 no. |
| Sweet corn | 1 Cup | |
| Lunch | Rice | 2 Servings |
| Pulka | 1 no. | |
| Curry | 1 Serving | |
| Fish curry | 1/2 serving | |
| Tea time | Green tea | 1 Cup |
| Oats upma | 1 serving | |
| Dinner | Pulka | 1 no. |
