Arteriosclerosis

Arteriosclerosis is a condition in which a buildup of calcium on the insides of artery walls causes thickening and hardening of the arteries. Atherosclerosis is similar, but characterized by a buildup of fatty substances, causing the artery walls to lose elasticity and harden.  In both cases the arteries become restricted leading to high blood pressure and eventually to angina, heart attack, stroke, and/or sudden cardiac death. A high fiber, low cholesterol diet is recommended and fried foods, red meat, sugar, alcohol and saturated fats should be avoided.