b'B VITAMINS.Studies have linked low levels of three key B vitaminsB6, B12, and folatetohigher levels of an artery-damaging amino acid called homocysteine. Research in the Journal of the American reports that this, in turn, elevates the risk of atherosclerosis. But according to one College of Nutrition recent meta-analysis of 8,513 stroke patients, supplementing with these three nutrients effectively reduces homocysteine levels and helps protect against heart attack, stroke, and vascular death.CAYENNE PEPPER.A rich source of capsaicin, cayenne pepper boasts anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help foster healthy arteries and better blood flow. Recent research shows that capsaicin also protects against calcification. In one study, researchers discovered that this spicy compound works on a molecular level to prevent the accumulation of calcium in the aorta. CURCUMIN.This golden compound, which is derived from the curry spice turmeric, providesstrong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help prevent the buildup of arterial plaque. Growing evidence also suggests that curcumin regulates key signaling molecules involved in the progression of atherosclerosis. In one study that appeared in the journal Molecules, curcumin prevented cellular changes to the endothelium that contribute to its dysfunction. However, ordinary curcumin supplements arent well absorbed by the body. To make sure you get this compounds artery-loving benefits, look for a bioavailable form. One well-studied formulation, listed on labels as Meriva, combines curcumin with phospholipids to significantly enhance absorption. HAWTHORN.Hawthorn contains a wealth of flavonoids, polyphenols, and oligomeric procyanidinspowerful antioxidants that neutralize oxidative damage to LDL cholesterol. This herb also counters the chronic inflammation that contributes to atherosclerosis and helps stabilize existing plaque. Studies show that hawthorn also improves circulation and benefits those with heart failure.L-ARGININE.This artery-protecting amino acid increases levels of nitric oxide, which relaxes blood vessels and improves blood flow throughout the body. Although the body can naturally produce this amino acid, you likely also receive significant amounts of l-arginine from your diet. However, as you get older, you may need more than your body and diet can supply. Fortunately, you can boost your intake of l-arginine through supplementation. NATTOKINASE.Derived from natto, a cheese-like food made from fermented soybeans, nattokinase is an enzyme that works on multiple fronts to reduce atherosclerosis. Studies show that this cardiovascular multitasker reduces the accumulation of platelets in arteries and decreases atherosclerotic plaque buildup. Plus, nattokinase helps prevent blood clots and may support healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Taken together, these actions have been shown to reduce atherosclerosis to a greater extent than statin drugs. GET HEART HEALTHY11'