The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition reports that high carbohydrate content in the diet is linked to hardening of the arteries, high blood pressure and diminished blood flow to the heart. Refined carbohydrates lead to high blood sugar.
"In an effort to ensure our survival, the excess sugar is converted into triglycerides so it can be stored as fat, causing weight gain and leading to heart disease. Even more devastating, the excess sugar and fats in the blood are abrasive to the inner lining of the arteries and along with higher blood pressure, cause micro cracks to form. These cracks are then efficiently plugged with available minerals and oxidized cholesterol in an effort to avert bleeding, and a foamy plaque is formed which is the beginning of Coronary Artery Disease, the most prevalent form of heart disease."
There is research to support the idea that arterial plaque and heart disease can be reversed by reducing carbohydrates and adopting a healthy diet.
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