Heart Health
The heart is an amazing organ. Its four chambers beat with a normal heart rate of 50 to 99 times per minute or almost 100,000 times a day, sending oxygen and nutrient-rich blood to every cell in the body. Each minute the heart pumps five to six quarts of blood equaling nearly 2,000 gallons per day. With each beat of the heart fresh blood carries oxygen and food to cells and removes waste including carbon dioxide.Since heart disease is so wide spread it is important to know the risk factors for heart disease and work to minimize or eliminate them.
1. Smoking - Smoking damages the lungs and increases the load on the heart. If you smoke, stopping can provide almost immediate benefits.
2. High cholesterol levels - Know your levels and work to bring them into acceptable ranges. Cholesterol causes build up on the artery walls. Natural supplements like Red Yeast Rice or Policosanol may help you lower your cholesterol.
3. High blood pressure - Untreated high blood pressure increases stress on the heart and vascular system.
4. Inactivity - Exercise is important for heart health.
5. Diet - Strive for a diet low in fat and cholesterol.
6. Stress/Anger - learn ways to lower your stress level and to deal with anger.
7. Diabetes - Diabetics have an increased risk for heart disease. Carefully control and monitor blood sugar levels.
Omega 3 essential fatty acids from fish or plant sources like flax seed oil have a marked impact on reducing heart attack, stroke and other cardiovascular problems. Omega 3 fatty acids are so effective the American Heart Association officially endorses their inclusion in the diet. Antioxidants like Vitamins E, C, and A can also strengthen the heart health helping you reduce your risk for heart attack.
