Dr. Eric Berg DC, a health educator with 13.5 million YouTube subscribers, identifies a superfood as the top choice for naturally clearing arteries and promoting heart health
A prominent health expert has highlighted a specific superfood that he claims clears arteries “better than aspirin.” Dr. Eric Berg DC, renowned for his significant following on YouTube, has shared the benefits of this ‘number one’ food. Maintaining clear arteries is crucial because blocked arteries can hinder blood flow. When arteries are clear, blood circulation improves, delivering oxygen and essential nutrients to organs while reducing the risk of various health issues, including heart attacks and strokes.
Atherosclerosis, a condition characterized by plaque buildup in the arteries, can lead to severe blockages. If this occurs in the coronary arteries, it could trigger a heart attack, while blockages in the brain could cause a stroke. The plaque, known as atheroma, mainly consists of excess ‘bad’ cholesterol (LDL), fatty deposits, cellular debris, calcium, and fibrin. This accumulation narrows the arterial walls and can obstruct blood circulation. Interestingly, around 40% of heart attacks happen between 6 am and noon—during a time when cortisol and adrenaline levels are elevated, increasing the risk of blood clotting.
In a video titled “#1 Best Food to Unclog Arteries,” with a thumbnail shouting, “Better than aspirin,” Dr. Berg prompts viewers to learn about the most effective food for preventing heart attacks and strokes.
He emphasizes that the superfood he recommends serves as a natural cleanser for arteries without the negative side effects that may accompany pharmaceuticals, as reported.
While aspirin can help manage clogged arteries, it doesn’t actually remove the blockages. Instead, it’s an antiplatelet medication that prevents clots in narrowed arteries—clots that could potentially lead to severe cardiovascular events.
Aspirin works to manage the risks tied to existing blockages but isn’t a solution for the plaques themselves.
Doctors often prescribe aspirin to patients with a history of heart disease or those at high risk for heart attacks and strokes, especially after procedures like angioplasty.
However, aspirin is not suitable for everyone, particularly individuals without cardiovascular disease or those at an increased risk of bleeding. Thus, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional before starting any aspirin regimen, as it can lead to complications such as stomach bleeding.
Although aspirin is known for preventing heart attacks by thinning blood and inhibiting clot formation, it does come with side effects and may not be appropriate for all users.
Dr. Berg proposes eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), an omega-3 fatty acid, as a natural alternative that avoids similar negative effects.
Research highlights EPA’s ability to lower triglyceride levels, a type of fat in the blood that, when elevated, can increase the risk of heart disease.
In addition, EPA can help reduce non-HDL cholesterol, which includes harmful particles like LDL.
According to Dr. Berg, “EPA helps prevent blocked arteries by making your platelets less sticky. Studies show it can thin the blood similarly to low-dose aspirin.”
He adds that EPA can help stabilize vulnerable arterial plaques by decreasing inflammation. A 2019 study noted a significant reduction in plaque and fewer cardiovascular events among participants who consumed EPA. Additionally, it might even positively affect mood by reducing cortisol and adrenaline levels.
Among the best sources of EPA are salmon, mackerel, fatty fish, and fish oil. Yet, Dr. Berg mentions that cod liver oil or cod liver stands out as the most effective choice for naturally clearing arteries. Various reputable sources identify oily fish like salmon and mackerel as excellent EPA carriers, alongside cod liver oil and certain shellfish.
If you adhere to a plant-based diet, options like flax seeds, chia seeds, and walnuts provide ALA, which the body can convert into EPA, although less efficiently than fish.
Dr. Berg also points out that cod liver oil offers vitamins A and D. Retinol, the active form of vitamin A, aids in tissue repair and can also have anti-inflammatory properties that potentially help reduce atherosclerotic plaque.
A 2015 animal study discussed that while aspirin is often used to prevent ischemic events, many patients might not respond effectively to it.
Fish oil is recognized for its anti-inflammatory and heart-protecting qualities, lowering cholesterol, and modifying platelet behavior.
Moreover, some research indicates that EPA could yield greater benefits than aspirin concerning inflammation and artery health.
While recent studies show hopeful results, the effectiveness of omega-3 fatty acids remains somewhat contradictory, necessitating further research. Experts advise caution, as omega-3s may not match the proven effectiveness of aspirin, and stopping aspirin without professional advice is not recommended.
Dr. Berg also discusses the advantages of vitamin D, emphasizing a study that identified it as particularly effective in protecting artery linings.
He concludes that vitamin D can enhance nitric oxide production and arterial flexibility while decreasing inflammation and the risk of plaque rupture.
EPA fish oil is generally safe for most people if taken correctly. However, it’s essential to be mindful of any possible side effects or interactions with medications, especially if one has underlying health issues.
Consulting with a healthcare provider before starting fish oil supplements is crucial to determine their safety and suitability for individual health conditions.
