Regular exercise helps arteries by boosting the endothelial cells' nitric oxide production. And research suggests it may even do more. In mice, exercise stimulates the bone marrow to produce endothelial progenitor cells, which enter the bloodstream to replace aging endothelial cells and repair damaged arteries.

Do your arteries dilate during exercise?

It looks at the role of adenosine triphosphate, or ATP, a chemical that can be released by red blood cells and is believed to cause blood vessels to dilate during exercise, when muscles demand more oxygen.

Does exercise clear arteries?

Losing weight, exercising more, or eating less cholesterol-rich foods are all steps you can take to reduce plaques, but these steps won't remove existing plaques. Focus on promoting better heart health by maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Healthy habits will help prevent additional plaque from forming.