Weird But Effective: 3 Unusual Foods That Clean Your Arteries
April 03, 2025 read
When it comes to heart health, most people know that eating fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats is good for their arteries. But did you know there are some weird, lesser-known foods that can actually help clean your arteries and improve blood flow?
Yes, they might sound a little strange—but they work!
If you want to lower cholesterol, reduce plaque buildup, and keep your heart in top shape, here are three unusual but powerful foods you need to try.
1. Natto: The Slimy Superfood That Dissolves Blood Clots
🧐 What is it? Natto is a fermented soybean dish from Japan. It has a strong smell, sticky texture, and a funky, cheesy flavor. While it might not be the most appetizing food at first, it’s packed with a powerful enzyme called nattokinase, which is amazing for your arteries. If you have a local Asian grocery store, you’ll find natto there!
💖 Why it works:
- ✔ Breaks down blood clots – Nattokinase helps prevent dangerous clot formation that can lead to heart attacks and strokes.
- ✔ Lowers blood pressure – It relaxes blood vessels, helping blood flow more smoothly.
- ✔ Reduces artery plaque – Studies show it can help break down excess fibrin, a protein that contributes to plaque buildup.
🥢 How to eat it:
- Mix it with mustard, soy sauce, or green onions for a traditional Japanese-style snack.
- Add it to rice or stir it into miso soup.
- If you can’t handle the taste, nattokinase supplements are a great alternative!
2. Hibiscus Tea: The “Nature’s Blood Pressure Medicine”
🧐 What is it? Hibiscus tea is a deep red herbal tea made from dried hibiscus flowers. It has a tart, cranberry-like flavor and is used in many cultures for its health benefits.
💖 Why it works:
- ✔ Lowers blood pressure – Hibiscus tea contains natural compounds called anthocyanins that help relax blood vessels and improve circulation.
- ✔ Reduces LDL (bad) cholesterol – Studies show it helps lower bad cholesterol levels, which can prevent plaque buildup.
- ✔ Packed with antioxidants – It fights inflammation and protects the lining of your arteries.
☕ How to drink it:
- Steep dried hibiscus flowers in hot water for 5-10 minutes for a refreshing tea.
- Add a bit of honey or lemon for extra flavor.
- Drink one to two cups a day for maximum heart benefits.
3. Dark Leafy Greens: Nature’s Artery Scrubber
🧐 What are they? Dark leafy greens like kale, spinach, Swiss chard, and arugula might not sound unusual, but their powerful heart benefits are often overlooked.
🍖 What studies actually show:
- ✔ Rich in nitrates – These compounds help relax blood vessels and improve circulation.
- ✔ Remove calcium buildup – The vitamin K in leafy greens helps prevent artery hardening.
- ✔ Lowers blood pressure – Studies show leafy greens can help regulate blood pressure naturally.
🥗 How to eat them:
- Add spinach or kale to smoothies for a nutrient boost.
- Make a heart-healthy salad with arugula, walnuts, and olive oil.
- Sauté Swiss chard with garlic and olive oil for a delicious side dish.
The Bottom Line: Don’t Be Afraid to Try New Foods!
If you’re looking for natural ways to clean your arteries and protect your heart, these three unusual foods—natto, hibiscus tea, and dark leafy greens—are a great place to start.
Yes, they might be a little different than what you’re used to, but their science-backed benefits make them worth trying!
💡 Which one are you most excited to try? Let us know in the comments!
