Here’s is a List of the 9 Worst Foods That Clog Arteries

Everything you eat affects your health, though some foods are more destructive than others. Foods that clog arteries cause your body to create cholesterol, which combines with other substances to form plaque. Plaque builds slowly, hardening until it narrows your arteries. Eventually, this buildup can lead to serious issues like hypertension, heart disease, stroke and other conditions.

That’s why it’s so important to focus on healthy nutrition rather than gorging on harmful foods. This will ensure that your arteries stay clear to keep your blood flowing properly. Of course, it is best to discuss any concerns you have in this area with a medical professional and follow their advice. If you’re unsure which foods are most likely to clog your arteries, check out the following list.

Close up of a hotdog burger and fries. Excessive use of such foods can clog arteries.

The List of Foods That Clog Arteries

Though we are all aware that the foods we eat aren’t always the best, not everyone knows which ones to avoid. There are even some options that are believed to be healthy but are actually foods that clog arteries.

To avoid high levels of cholesterol and maintain a healthy diet, there are specific additives to watch for. These include saturated fats, fried food, and trans fats. Though not necessarily in the same foods, they all contribute to high cholesterol.

Saturated fat

Saturated fat is one of the worst offenders when it comes to plaque buildup in the arteries. Most experts suggest limiting saturated fats to under 7% of your daily calories. Knowing which foods to avoid can help you meet these goals. Though animal products are the main source of saturated fats, there are also a few others to watch for.

If you want to reduce the foods that clog arteries by avoiding saturated fats, limiting the following options can help:

  1. Butter and margarine
  2. Whole milk and cream
  3. Ice cream
  4. High-fat cheese
  5. Processed or cured meats, including hot dogs, pepperoni, salami, sausage, etc.
  6. Red meat, like beef, pork, and lamb
  7. Palm and palm kernel oil
  8. Baked goods, including pies, cakes, cookies, croissants, etc.
  9. Coconut products, like oil and milk

By limiting your intake of these options, you’ll reduce the amount of cholesterol in your bloodstream.

Fried foods

Fried foods are incredibly tasty but are extremely unhealthy as they can also clog arteries. This is because cooking foods in hot oil alters more than the taste and texture. Those foods absorb the oil, increasing the calorie count. Reusing oil repeatedly also breaks it down, causing even more oil absorption in the foods it’s used to cook. Some of the worst fried foods are:

  • French fries
  • Chicken nuggets
  • Onion rings
  • Fish sticks.

These increase the cholesterol in your blood. This leads to clogged arteries and increases your risk of serious heart conditions.

Trans fat foods also clog arteries

Trans fats are created when hydrogen is combined with liquid oil to create hydrogenated oil. It is used in restaurants and processing plants to give foods a better flavor and texture. Trans fats also increase shelf life, which creates less waste.

Unfortunately, it is extremely unhealthy, so it’s best to avoid those options containing trans fats. Sticking to foods that don’t clog arteries is a much safer and healthier option.

This article is for educational and informational purpose only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. For any questions about your own health condition, speak to a qualified physician or healthcare provider.