When it comes to protecting your heart, preventing clogged arteries is one of the smartest long-term strategies you can take. Heart attacks and strokes remain leading causes of death worldwide—and while many people turn to aspirin as a preventive measure, emerging research shows that a natural alternative may offer powerful protection without the side effects.

Let’s break down the science, the top nutrient that keeps your blood flowing smoothly, and the food proven to deliver it in its most beneficial form.

---

✅ Key Takeaways

• Aspirin can prevent blood clots but carries risks like bleeding ulcers and brain bleeds.

• Omega-3 fatty acids—especially EPA—can reduce clotting as effectively as aspirin, without harmful side effects.

• The best food for artery health is cod liver oil, thanks to its rich content of EPA, vitamin A, and vitamin D.

---

Why Heart Attacks and Strokes Really Happen

Most people think clogged arteries are mainly due to cholesterol buildup—but that’s only part of the story.

✅ 80% of heart attacks and strokes are caused by blood clots, not cholesterol blockages.
That means the real danger occurs when unstable plaque ruptures and forms an instant clot that blocks blood flow.

Another surprising fact?

✅ Almost half of heart attacks occur in the morning
This is when cortisol and adrenaline spike—two hormones that increase platelet stickiness and raise clotting risk.

That’s why controlling clot formation is one of the most important ways to protect your heart.

---

The Problem With Aspirin

Aspirin has been used as a heart-protective remedy for thousands of years. It works by:

• thinning the blood

• reducing clot formation

• preventing platelets from sticking together

However, aspirin is not harmless. Common risks include:

• stomach bleeding

• ulcers

• gastrointestinal irritation

• increased risk of brain bleeds

Because of these complications, post-2022 medical guidelines no longer recommend daily aspirin for most adults, particularly older individuals or those prone to bleeding.

So what’s the safer, natural alternative?

---

✅ The Natural Alternative: Omega-3 EPA

Omega-3 fatty acids—especially EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid)—are emerging as one of the most effective natural supports for arterial health.

✅ EPA reduces blood clotting like aspirin—without the side effects.

Here’s how:

• 1. EPA reduces inflammation in arterial walls

This helps stabilize plaque, preventing rupture—the main trigger of sudden heart attacks.

• 2. EPA keeps platelets from sticking

Unlike aspirin, which interferes with platelet function, EPA gently reduces platelet aggregation, so they stay “free-floating” instead of clumping into clots.

• 3. EPA lowers stress hormones

EPA reduces cortisol and adrenaline levels, which may explain why it’s also linked to better mood and emotional well-being.

---

⭐ The No. 1 Food for Unclogging Arteries: Cod Liver Oil

While salmon, sardines, and mackerel are excellent sources of omega-3s, cod liver oil stands out as the single best food for arterial health.

✅ Why Cod Liver Oil Is Superior

1. It contains high levels of EPA

This omega-3 is the most effective natural agent for keeping blood thin and preventing clots.

2. It provides natural Vitamin A (retinol)

Vitamin A:

• repairs the endothelial lining of arteries

• reduces inflammation

• helps reverse early stages of arterial plaque

3. It’s rich in Vitamin D

Vitamin D is crucial for vascular health. Studies show it:

• protects artery walls from damage

• increases nitric oxide, which relaxes blood vessels

• reduces arterial stiffness

• stabilizes plaque

Among all micronutrients studied, Vitamin D shows the strongest protective effect against endothelial damage.

---

✅ How to Take Cod Liver Oil for Heart Health

✔ Choose high-quality, wild-caught cod liver oil

This ensures purity and optimal nutrient levels.

✔ Take the recommended daily dose

Follow the label or consult your healthcare provider for personalized dosing.

✔ If you dislike the taste

Mix cod liver oil into:

• juice

• smoothies

• yogurt
  Or choose capsule form for easy swallowing.

---

Conclusion: A Simple Daily Habit for a Stronger Heart

Aspirin may have a long history in heart prevention, but cod liver oil offers a safer, more natural, and scientifically powerful alternative.

With its potent combination of:

✅ EPA (clot-prevention)
✅ Vitamin A (artery repair)
✅ Vitamin D (vessel protection and relaxation)

cod liver oil stands as the best food for supporting clear, healthy arteries and reducing the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

If you’re looking for a natural way to care for your cardiovascular system, a daily spoonful of cod liver oil may be one of the most effective habits you can adopt.

Your heart—and your arteries—will thank you.