"Top 5" Approaches to Reduce the Risk of Cardiovascular Disease
Thanks to Växa International for this information.Research conducted in 52 countries reveals several controllable risk factors attribute to 90% of all heart attacks. Previously, it was believed only half of the heart attacks were caused by factors such as smoking and cholesterol. Today, most heart attacks can be pinpointed to one or more of the risk factors mentioned below. These factors are neither gender specific nor related to a particular ethnic group.
I. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle
Smoking changes the viscosity of blood. This can potentially lead to clumping in the blood vessels that supply the heart. The National Library of Medicine published a study stating that smoking inhibits vitamin and mineral uptake. It also depletes levels of vitamin C, and creates a toxic internal environment. An imbalance of essential vitamins and minerals may exacerbate the harmful effects of smoke components on cancer and coronary heart disease. Giving up smoking can help avoid cancer and lower the risk of heart disease.
Vitamin C is a highly effective antioxidant; it protects molecules in the body from damage caused by smoking and free radicals generated through normal metabolism.
II. Watch Cholesterol Intake
It is important to not only control your cholesterol, but to decrease fat intake when faced with the risk of cardiovascular diseases such as heart attack, stroke, and other disorders caused by atherosclerosis (fatty deposits of plaque in the artery walls). A diet high in "bad" saturated fats (butter, cheese, red meat, fast foods) increases your blood cholesterol. The body has its own daily quota for cholesterol production. Too much cholesterol may cause fat to build up in the arterial walls and cause diseases that slow or stop the flow of blood.
III. Control High Blood Pressure
A famous study, known as the Framingham Heart Study, found that half of all people who suffer a first-time heart attack and two-thirds of first-time stroke victims, had moderate to high blood pressure. If left untreated, high blood pressure can increase the risk of atherosclerosis, aneurysms, loss of vision, and kidney failure. Normal blood pressure is considered to be 120/80. Experts have advocated eating less salt as a way of controlling blood pressure. In addition, mineral-rich foods and herbs like Hawthorn and Chinese Cat's Claw, folic acid, and branched chain amino acids are known to naturally help control blood pressure.
Stress causes chemical changes in the body and if left unchecked, it can have a negative impact on both physical and mental health. Studies show nearly 80% of all health related problems are attributed to stress. A study at the Ohio State University found that stress slows the body's metabolism of triglycerides (fat linked to cardiovascular system disorders). The slower metabolism allows fat to linger in the blood advancing the development of atherosclerosis.
Try Växa's Homeopathic Medicinal, Extress to help calm and focus attention, safely relax muscles, and replenish essential nutrients used by the body during times of stress.
V. Diet and Exercise
Research conducted around the world showed waist circumferences of > 34 inches in men and > 32 inches in women increases the risk of cardiovascular disease. Salim Yusuf, MD, who conducted the study says, "It is a measure of abdominal fat, which is most closely associated with heart attacks." Walking is not only relaxing but a great, low-impact way to lose weight.
In Closing: Avoid Becoming a Statistic
"About 950,000 Americans die of cardiovascular disease each year, which amounts to one death every 33 seconds."
Take a proactive stance on keeping your body healthy:
- National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion
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