Alternative medicine

It's thought that some foods and herbal supplements can help reduce your high cholesterol level and high blood pressure, two major risk factors for developing atherosclerosis. With your doctor's OK, you might consider these supplements and products:

• Alpha-linolenic acid
• Barley
• Beta-sitosterol (found in supplements and some margarines, such as Promise Activ)
• Blond psyllium (found in seed husk and products such as Metamucil)
• Calcium
• Cocoa
• Fish oil
• Garlic
• Green tea
• Oat bran (found in oatmeal and whole oats)
• Sitostanol (found in supplements and some margarines, such as Benecol)

Talk to your doctor before adding any of these or other supplements to your atherosclerosis treatment. Some supplements can interact with medications, causing harmful side effects.

You can also practice relaxation techniques, such as yoga or deep breathing, to help you relax and reduce your stress level. These practices can temporarily reduce your blood pressure, reducing your risk of developing atherosclerosis.