A coronary artery calcium (CAC) score, also known as a calcium score, is a non-invasive measurement that measures calcified plaque in heart arteries. This score helps assess an individual’s risk for future cardiovascular events by identifying coronary artery disease. This understanding guides strategies for managing cardiovascular health.
The Reality of Calcium Score Reduction
While “reducing” an existing coronary artery calcium score is a common question, current medical understanding indicates that reversing established calcified plaque is not achievable. The calcium score reflects calcification already present in coronary arteries. Interventions aim to prevent further calcium buildup and slow atherosclerosis progression, not to decrease the score itself.
Strategies after a CAC score assessment focus on stabilizing existing plaque and reducing the risk of heart attacks or strokes. Even without a numerical decrease, managing risk factors improves cardiovascular health. The goal is to halt or slow new plaque accumulation and reduce adverse cardiac events.
Dietary Changes for Heart Health
Dietary adjustments play an important role in cardiovascular health and calcium score progression. Prioritizing a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains provides nutrients and fiber, lowering cholesterol and improving blood pressure. Incorporating lean protein sources like fish, poultry, and legumes, along with healthy fats from avocados, nuts, and olive oil, supports heart function.
Limiting saturated and trans fats found in red meats, processed snacks, and fried foods manages cholesterol. Reducing dietary sodium intake, often found in processed and restaurant foods, benefits blood pressure. Avoiding sugary drinks and foods with added sugars manages blood sugar and prevents inflammation, factors in atherosclerosis.
Lifestyle Modifications for Cardiovascular Wellness
Beyond diet, several lifestyle modifications contribute to cardiovascular wellness and manage factors linked to calcium score progression. Regular physical activity, at least 150 minutes of moderate or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise weekly, strengthens the heart and improves circulation. Activities like brisk walking, cycling, or swimming also manage weight and improve cholesterol.
Maintaining a healthy body weight reduces strain on the cardiovascular system and impacts blood pressure and lipid levels. Quitting smoking is an important step for heart health, as smoking contributes to arterial damage and plaque formation. Managing stress through techniques like mindfulness, meditation, or ensuring adequate sleep (7-9 hours per night) supports cardiovascular well-being.
Medical Management and Professional Support
Professional medical guidance is important for managing cardiovascular risk factors linked to a calcium score. Regular consultations with a healthcare provider monitor key health indicators like blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar. These measurements help tailor an individualized management plan.
Medications may be prescribed to address specific risk factors and prevent atherosclerosis progression. For instance, statins are used to lower cholesterol, while anti-hypertensive medications manage high blood pressure. For individuals with diabetes, blood sugar control medications reduce cardiovascular complications. These medical interventions, combined with lifestyle changes, aim to reduce heart disease risk and should be discussed with a cardiologist or primary care physician.