What Is PAD?
PAD stands for “peripheral artery disease,” a condition that affects the legs. PAD results when arteries become blocked with plaque and blood flow to the muscles is restricted. It can lead to pain and cramping as you move around, and as it gets worse, even pain when you are resting. If left untreated, it can lead to an increased risk of stroke and heart attack. Exercising, maintaining a healthy weight, not smoking, and eating a healthy diet can help to prevent PAD.
If you have PAD, suddenly developing a healthy lifestyle probably won’t make it go away completely, but it can help with painful symptoms. Eating fish at least twice a week can be one way to help your heart and your circulation. Fish have unsaturated fats, called “omega-3 fatty acids.” These fatty acids help to reduce inflammation in the body, which can damage blood vessels and lead to heart problems. They also lower blood pressure, reduce blood clotting, and can improve the quality of life for patients with cardiovascular disease, which is a risk factor for developing PAD.
You might avoid eating fish because you are concerned about the amount of mercury it may have, but most health professionals agree that the benefits of eating fish outweigh the risks of exposure to contaminants. (However, if you are pregnant, you should discuss the risks and benefits of eating fish with your doctor.)
Eating right is important for the health of your heart and your vascular system, and you may want to commit to a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids if you have concerns about developing PAD or other vascular problems. If you are concerned about years of eating a poor diet and living an unhealthy lifestyle and what it has done to your vascular system, contact the office of Dr. Sammy A. Zakhary in Glendale, Arizona. Call (623) 258-3255 for an appointment today.
