Brief Summary
Dr. Berry debunks a popular internet remedy for unclogging arteries and offers a science-based approach to slowing the progression of arterial clogging and potentially reducing existing blockages. He emphasizes the importance of a diet that is low in carbohydrates, anti-inflammatory, and rich in healthy fats and proteins from sources that humans have consumed for thousands of years. The key points include monitoring coronary artery calcium (CAC) scores, achieving ketosis through diet, and prioritizing whole, unprocessed foods.
- Debunks internet remedies for unclogging arteries.
- Promotes a science-based approach to slowing and potentially reversing arterial clogging.
- Emphasizes a low-carbohydrate, anti-inflammatory diet rich in healthy fats and proteins.
Intro
Dr. Berry starts by addressing a viral video claiming to unclog arteries with a lemon, garlic, and Wakanaka root concoction, which he dismisses as unsupported by science. He contrasts this with his evidence-based approach to decreasing the progression of arterial clogging and potentially reducing existing blockages through diet and lifestyle changes.
Measuring Arterial Clogging
The primary method for measuring arterial clogging is the coronary artery calcium (CAC) score, obtained through a CT scan of the heart arteries. The average person's CAC score increases by 20-25 points annually. However, individuals following a ketogenic diet often experience a slower increase, with some maintaining the same score or even seeing a decrease.
Dietary Principles to Slow or Reduce Arterial Clogging
To slow the progression of arterial clogging or reduce existing blockages, Dr. Berry recommends a diet based on three main principles. First, the diet should be anti-inflammatory, consisting of real, whole foods that humans have consumed for at least 12,000 to 15,000 years, avoiding recently discovered or processed foods that can cause chronic inflammation. Second, the diet should be rich in healthy fats and proteins, particularly animal fats and proteins, which are essential for the structure and function of arterial walls. Third, the diet should be very low in carbohydrates to promote ketosis.
The Role of Ketosis and Diet
Following these dietary principles won't unclog arteries overnight, but it will slow the progression of clogging and gradually improve existing blockages. A very low carbohydrate diet helps maintain normal blood sugar and insulin levels, reducing damage to artery linings. An anti-inflammatory diet allows the artery linings to heal and existing plaques to resolve. Dr. Berry directs viewers to his other videos for more information on ketosis and how to achieve it through diet.
Conclusion
Dr. Berry concludes by advising viewers to ignore unscientific remedies and instead focus on a low-carbohydrate, anti-inflammatory diet to reverse clogged arteries.
