“The disease linked to atherosclerosis is the leading cause of death in the United States.

About half of Americans between ages 45 and 84 have atherosclerosis and don’t know it.”

Atherosclerosis is deadly and dangerous, but can be prevented.

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Clogged arteries can lead to many health issues and should not be taken lightly."

Read on to discover all five on this essential list.

Bacon may have such a high-fat content that it can lead to blocked arteries.

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Making good choices now can help you avoid serious medical consequences later in life."

She adds: “Another big health risk associated with bacon is that it can be high in sodium.

It can be used for everything from baking decadent treats to adding flavor to savory dishes.

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Therefore, moderation is key when it comes to butter consumption.

One option is switching to a low-fat dairy spread with reduced saturated fat content.

Ultimately, it just takes a bit of experimentation (and creativity!)

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to find what works best for you.”

To further slash your calorie intake you could opt for smaller varieties such as shortbread cookies or fig bars.

One effective strategy is reducing portion sizes.

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Deep frying food coats the food in unhealthy grease and oil that encourages the clogging of arteries.

Baking provides an easy and fast alternative that results in just as good of a taste.

Sauteing is another healthy alternative that lets you get creative with your ingredients!

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These strategies provide a wonderful balance between indulging cravings and enjoying healthy foods."