Foods to Avoid with PAD

6 Foods to Avoid with PAD

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is caused by plaque buildup that narrows the arteries, usually in the legs. PAD limits blood flow, leading to symptoms such as pain, numbness, and weakness in the legs. While minimally invasive treatments are important for dealing with PAD, lifestyle changes, especially in diet, play a crucial part in supporting vascular health. Knowing what to eat and avoid can help you efficiently manage PAD.

1. Processed and Packaged Foods

Processed foods, such as chips, instant noodles, and frozen meals, are typically filled with trans fats, sodium, and preservatives. High sodium intake can lead to higher blood pressure, which would strain the arteries already affected by PAD. An overabundance of salt also worsens fluid retention, disrupting circulation in your legs.

Trans fats are commonly found in many processed foods and can be particularly harmful to health. They have been linked to increased LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol levels and decreased HDL (high-density lipoprotein) cholesterol levels. This combination can contribute to plaque accumulation in the arteries, obstructing blood flow, especially in individuals with peripheral artery disease (PAD).

Diet Tip: Instead of processed foods, opt for fresh fruits, vegetables, and lean meats. Choose low-sodium packaged foods and always check for hidden trans fats on nutrition labels.

2. Red Meat and Processed Meats

Red meats like pork, beef, lamb and processed meats such as deli meats, bacon, and sausage are high in saturated fats. Consuming these can raise cholesterol levels and contribute to plaque buildup in the arteries. Regularly eating red or processed meats can speed up the progression of PAD, increasing the risk of a heart attack or stroke. 

Diet Tip: Instead, eat lean proteins such as fish, chicken, and turkey. Fish like salmon, sardines, and mackerel are particularly rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which can reduce inflammation and enhance healthy blood circulation.

3. Sugary Snacks and Beverages

Sugary foods and drinks, such as soda, candies, and cookies, contribute to inflammation and weight gain, both of which are harmful for people with PAD. Increased weight puts more pressure on the legs and arteries, worsening symptoms like pain.

Diets high in sugar can lead to insulin resistance, which is a precursor to diabetes, a common comorbidity for individuals with PAD. Diabetes and PAD together increase the likelihood of developing severe medical issues, including non-healing wounds and possible amputations.

Diet Tip: Instead, eat healthy snacks packed with nutrients, such as nuts, fruits, or whole-grain options. Choose water, low-sugar beverages, or unsweetened herbal teas over sugary drinks.

4. Fried Foods

Fried foods such as doughnuts, fried chicken, and French fries are usually cooked in oils that are high in saturated fats or trans fats. These fats can raise cholesterol levels and cause inflammation, which can worsen blockages in the arteries and lead to PAD.

Fried foods are also high in calories, making it easy to consume excess calories that lead to weight gain. The additional weight can put extra strain on the circulatory system, making PAD symptoms more severe.

Diet Tip: Instead of fried foods, eat baked, grilled, or steamed foods. You can also cook with olive oil or avocado to supply heart-healthy fats that are good for artery health.

5. Full-Fat Dairy Products

Full-fat dairy products, such as butter, cheese, whole milk, and cream, are high in saturated fats. Similar to red meats, saturated fats can raise LDL cholesterol levels and contribute to the buildup of plaque in the arteries, leading to more severe PAD symptoms.

Avoiding or limiting these high-fat dairy choices can help reduce the risk of arterial blockages and improve overall circulation. Reducing consumption of full-fat dairy can also assist in weight management, which is important for managing PAD.

Diet Tip: Instead, choose fat-free or low-fat versions of these dairy products or choose plant-based alternatives such as soy milk, dairy-free yogurt, or almond milk. These dairy options can provide essential nutrients without the additional saturated fats.

6. High-Sodium Foods

High-sodium foods, including fast foods, frozen dinners, and canned soups, can raise your blood pressure. Since sodium is typically hidden in processed and packaged foods, it is crucial to read labels and make low-sodium choices. It’s also important to monitor your salt intake. Consuming too much salt can elevate your blood pressure, which is a common risk factor for PAD.

Diet Tip: Season your food with herbs and spices rather than salt. Fresh foods, like fruits and vegetables, naturally have less sodium, making them healthy choices for a heart-healthy diet. 

Foods That Are Good for PAD

PAD Foods

Avoiding harmful foods is important, but it is just as important to include healthy foods in your diet. Here are some healthier options to choose from: 

Leafy greens, such as spinach, collard greens, and kale, are high in antioxidants, which help fight oxidative stress and inflammation. These vegetables are also high in nitrates, which help dilate blood vessels and reduce blood flow. 

Whole grains, such as whole-wheat bread, oatmeal, brown rice, and quinoa, provide fiber that helps in lowering cholesterol levels and maintaining healthy blood vessels. These grains are digested slowly, which prevents rapid increases in blood sugar levels, making them beneficial for PAD patients who are at risk of diabetes.

Apples, berries, and citrus fruits are full of antioxidants that help combat inflammation and protect against artery damage. They give necessary vitamins and minerals that boost overall heart health.

Almonds, walnuts, and chia seeds are great sources of protein, fats, and fiber. They help improve cholesterol levels and minimize inflammation, adding to better circulation in those with PAD.

Fatty fish, like salmon, sardines, and mackerels, are filled with omega-3 fatty acids. These acids improve cholesterol levels, reduce inflammation, and help with healthy circulation. Omega-3s also prevent blood clots, which is good for people with PAD.

Manage PAD with American Endovascular

Avoiding processed and packaged foods, red and processed meats, sugary snacks and beverages, fried foods, full-fat dairy products, and high-sodium foods can help alleviate PAD symptoms. Remember, making these dietary changes is an essential step toward managing PAD, but it is also important to seek professional medical advice and treatment. 
If you’re concerned about PAD and how to manage it through lifestyle changes, schedule an appointment with American Endovascular for more information and to learn more about our treatment options. Let us help you take control of your health and navigate your PAD management with confidence.

Learn more about vascular health, prevention, and care for Peripheral Artery Disease.

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