VAP Cholesterol Test

The VAP cholesterol test is the very latest diagnostic test to determine your risk of heart disease. Standard cholesterol level tests identify only 40% of those at risk for heart disease. In fact, half of all heart attacks are suffered by people with normal cholesterol levels!

But now medical science has recently developed a newer and more accurate test for heart disease risk called the VAP test for (Vertical Auto Profile). This test benefits you in two ways.

It is THE most accurate indicator of your risk of heart attack.It helps identify various risk factors that you can control to prevent a heart attack.

Not all doctors provide the VAP cholesterol test, but it's use is increasing as more and more doctors realize their standard testing fails to identify everyone that is at risk.

The VAP test is done the same way as other cholesterol tests where a nurse or lab technician draws your blood and then sends it to a laboratory which then runs the test and returns the cholesterol test results to your doctor.

Regular cholesterol tests provide four measurements:

Total cholesterolTriglyceridesLDL - Low-density lipoproteinHDL - High-density lipoprotein

Although these four elements do have some value in determining your risk of heart attack, the VAP cholesterol test can pinpoint your risk, taking much of the guesswork out of this medical diagnosis.

This is very helpful for people who have cholesterol test results that show normal cholesterol levels, but who's true heart attack risk can now be successfully identified.

How does the VAP Test work?

The test identifies the following:

Identifies small dense LDL particles that cause arterial plaqueHDL2 and HDL3IDL - Intermediate-density lipoproteinLipoprotein A(VLDL1, VLDL2, VLDL3) Very low density lipoproteins

These small sub-fractions of cholesterol pose the greatest danger to you. The VAP cholesterol test will identify these particles, their density, and distribution. This information helps your doctor create a customized approach to reducing your risk of a heart attack and strokes.

Standard test results are still valuable as a screening method for heart disease. It is an inexpensive way of determining if you are at increased risk. The addition of the VAP test further clarifies your degree of risk and allows you to make needed lifestyle changes to head off a possible heart attack.

The key is to identify risks early while there is still time to reverse them with diet and exercise rather than drugs such as statins which have toxic side effects.

The VAP cholesterol test will soon become the standard for determining your heart attack risk. This will go a long way toward making heart attacks increasingly rare and survivable! Ask YOUR doctor about the VAP test, and start reducing your risk now!

George Parigian Jr. enjoys writing on a number of topics such as how to lower cholesterol naturally. Visit his blog Lower Cholesterol Naturally Now for more information!

Original article

A Diet to Reverse Heart Disease

In the United States, rising health care costs are a substantial problem. As a nation, we spend massive amounts of money to get the best health care available. With all of the money we are spending, it would seem that we should be the healthiest people in the world. Unfortunately this is not the case. As we continue to increase our health care spending, we are only getting sicker.

The primary causes for chronic illnesses such as heart disease and diabetes are biochemical and physiological imbalances. These imbalances are mostly due to the unnatural, processed foods that we are putting in our bodies. As long as we continue to eat the wrong foods, it doesn't matter how much we spend on health care, we will still be getting sick.

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. On a global scale, about 452 million people die each year from this condition. The sad fact behind these deaths is that they are mostly preventable. With the proper nutrition, this condition can not only be prevented, but reversed.

Exercise is often extolled as a preventative measure for heart disease. While exercise is very important to health and wellbeing, it is not the most critical factor. Many people who suffer from high cholesterol, obesity, hypertension and diabetes still have these conditions even when they are following a regular program of exercise. The benefits from exercise alone are not sufficient for preventing heart disease, diabetes and the long list of other chronic illnesses that afflict our society.

There has been much emphasis placed on nutrition and its role in prevention. The problem is that there is often a lack of understanding about what constitutes proper nutrition. Counting calories and monitoring fat, protein and carbohydrate intake is not going to prevent heart disease. It's not just the number of calories, carbohydrates or fat you're taking in that matter. It comes down to the nature and quality of the food.

A natural, whole foods, plant-based diet has been shown to prevent and reverse heart disease. Experts have written books with extensive scientific evidence showing how animal-based foods contribute to chronic conditions such as heart disease and diabetes. There are many examples of patients who have cured themselves of heart disease simply by eliminating animal products and other unhealthy substances from their diet.

In addition to removing animal products from the diet, it is also important to cut out all unnatural substances. Artificial ingredients and processed foods have chemicals that do a significant amount of damage to the body. A food, such as an apple, that was originally healthy becomes unhealthy after it has been processed into some other product.

When you take out all processed foods and artificial ingredients and abstain from eating animal products, you are left with only the most nutritious foods in your diet. Fresh fruits and vegetables have a high concentration of vitamins, minerals, enzymes and phytochemicals. All of these substances work together harmoniously in ways that modern science still does not completely understand. Our technology cannot surpass the engineering of nature to provide us with the best possible nutrition.

When we as a society learn how to eat for optimal health, we will see drastic reductions in chronic illnesses and their related costs. We do not need to live in fear of heart disease. Once we change our lifestyle and eating habits and follow the proper guidelines for nutrition, we can eliminate this illness and enjoy far greater health.

Original article

Tips On How To Optimize Your Heart Health

The heart is the body's most hardworking muscle. It never stops working. Unfortunately, cardiac disease is one of the leading causes of mortality in the entire globe. The mere fact that most of us live with very stressful lifestyles and with many things to think about, often times results in us losing time and effort in taking the best care for our health. Here we listed some tips on how to take care of our heart health. Some are actually just common sense and we already are aware of these but they are often taken for granted.

EAT HEALTHY

Eating 4 to 5 servings of fresh fruits and vegetables daily keeps the doctor away. These essential foods will not only help you to cut down your calorie intake but they also contain loads of vitamins, minerals and fiber that are important in order for us to keep a healthy heart. However, if you think your present diet lacks some of these essential nutrients consider taking supplements as an alternative.

For you to control your rising cholesterol levels and high blood pressure you have to eat whole grains. These kinds of food are high in fiber and have low fat and loads of vitamins that will help you lower down the figures. Studies show that by eating at least three servings per day can lessen your risk for cardiovascular disease, obesity and diabetes. You can jump-start your day by eating whole grain cereals or oatmeal. Studies also show that a diet rich in Omega-3, garlic and olive oil will help reduce heart ailment risks.

Hydrate yourself. Drink at least 8 glasses of water per day. This will actually help you in two ways. First, it helps you lose or maintain your weight. Sometimes the body confuses dehydration with hunger thus; dehydration will lead you to eating a lot more than you usually take in. Secondly, it helps you reduce the viscosity of your blood. Basically, thicker blood strains your heart because it will need to pump a lot harder in order for your blood to reach various areas of your body. By keeping yourself hydrated, you can help in taking care of your heart health.

REGULAR EXERCISE

Like all other muscles, the heart needs to be exercised. Exercise is an essential part of heart health. Aerobic exercises are the best form of exercise that you could do for your heart. This includes bicycling, walking, dancing and swimming. Always keep in mind that when you try to pick an exercise program always think of what you enjoy doing. If you enjoy what you do, it will not be hard for you to stick with it.

The recommended time for exercise is at least 30 minutes, three to four times a week. If you are a newbie, you have to take things gradually. Do not pressure yourself in doing exercises you know you are not ready for yet. It will have to take time and you will eventually be ready for it after a few weeks or days. Exercising regularly can help control cholesterol levels and blood pressure and will make your heart stronger.

SLEEP WELL

A lot of people sacrifice sleep just to finish a task. Lack of sleep can actually lead to the worsening of blood pressure and cause cholesterol levels to rise up. Try to sleep at least 6-8 hours per night so that you will be able to keep your heart stronger.

STOP SMOKING

If you smoke, it is beneficial for you to talk to your doctor and search for a way on how to quit. Smoking increases your chances of acquiring heart diseases. The amount of blood that flows to the heart is increased by nicotine thus decreasing the amount of blood that is needed to flow to the other parts of the body.

The heart needs to be taken good care of. We have shared you tips on how to optimize your heart health. We hope you, too, will start taking good care of your heart.

Click here to get more info about heart health today.

Original article

Garlic for Lowering Cholesterol

Garlic for lowering cholesterol is a perfect example of natural cholesterol remedies. It is one of a number of cholesterol reducing herbs that help in lowering LDL cholesterol. Garlic has multiple health benefits and such as reducing inflammation, raising hdl cholesterol, and having antibacterial properties as well.

Garlic can be used as a food, nutritional supplement or both. You can include it in your diet in many ways. It has multiple benefits beyond the positive effects on your cholesterol levels.  The active ingredient called allicin, is a potent anti-inflammatory and antibacterial.

A Journal Nutrition Research study (1987, 7:139-49) showed Kyolic liquid garlic extract lowered cholesterol levels 12 to 31% in most of test subjects within six months. More than 70% of the people on Kyolic garlic extract reduced cholesterol more than 10%. Only 17% of the people not taking it showed similar improvement.

This clearly indicates the value of garlic for reducing cholesterol. Garlic inhibits the oxidation of LDL which is critical to preventing heart attacks! Garlic can also prevent thrombosis, the abnormal blood platelet formation that damages arteries and can cause strokes. Yet another study found that garlic significantly lowered cholesterol and triglycerides, while raising HDL cholesterol (the beneficial kind).

Note: High dosages of garlic for lowering cholesterol should be taken with your largest meal because they can cause stomach upset.

A study in June of 1994, (JAMA, June 1, 1994, 271[21]:1660-61) showed adults who ate one-half to one clove of garlic every day reduced cholesterol levels by 9%. 7 out of 8 studies showed dosages from 600-900 mg of powdered garlic reduced both cholesterol and triglyceride levels between 5% to 20%. Kyolic, a brand name for an "aged" garlic extract supplement, showed the ability to reduce platelet aggregation (the tendency of blood platelets to stick together causing clots) by 30% compared to the placebo.

Garlic for lowering cholesterol and preventing heart attacks works in the following ways:

Lowering LDL cholesterolRaising HDL cholesterolPreventing the oxidation of LDLReducing arterial plaqueInhibits fibrogenic activity (tendency of the blood to become sticky)Protecting the endothelium (lining of the arteries ) from oxidation.

Garlic for lowering cholesterol only works in really large dosages such as 6000 - 8000mg/day, however when used with other cholesterol reducing herbs and other natural cholesterol remedies, you won't need quite as much. Garlic when taken as a supplement, or used in your food is a great addition to your diet. It is a natural antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and cholesterol reducing herb, who's overall health benefits are hard to beat!

George Parigian Jr. enjoys writing on a number of topics such as how to lower cholesterol naturally. Visit his blog Lower Cholesterol Naturally Now for more information!

Original article

Prescription Drugs Versus Natural Diets To Lower Cholesterol Levels

These myths can be listed thus:-
Cholesterol is not as bad as many have made it out to be. It is needed by the body to produce hormones such as testesterone and estrogen.
Bad cholesterol in the system does not necessarily lead to heart disease. Other mental and physical factors such as stress, exercise or body weight can be the cause of elevated bad cholesterol in the blood.
High cholesterol is not responsible for arteriosclerosis, the condition when plaque (comprising hardened cholesterol) begins to form and attach itself to the walls of blood vessels.
No particular diet can reduce bad cholesterol as the body produces much more bad cholesterol than any food can deal with.
Heavy consumption of animal fat as a result of meat consumption will not cause arteriosclerosis, so that consuming animal fat will not bring about heart disease.
Cholesterol management drugs do not lead to the increased mortality of persons consuming them and
Cholesterol management drugs do have certain side effects which can be effectively managed with other drugs and one has to find the drugs that are best suited by trial and error.

The cholesterol management drug market is a US$16 Billion market. It is therefore not surprising that some money will be spent promoting these drugs in the best light. There is also a huge market for those drugs that will treat with the side effects. The main side effects that have been documented include cancer risk, general weakness, immune system suppression, and muscle and kidney damage.

It is worth taking a little time to list the range of side effects that statin drugs have on the human body as reported. The first major side effect is the effect that the drug has on the liver. After a while the liver does not function as it should. This does happen in a small fraction of users and the physician has to take specific blood tests on a regular basis to monitor this problem. The next major side effect is called myopathy which is a condition where the muscle tissue is affected. Great pain is experienced and if the drugs are continued there is a condition called rhabdomyolysis which develops that can result in death.

Taking statin drugs with other drugs can also be very dangerous. A combination of statins with antibiotics or anti-fungals have been known to present many problems for the body. Taking grapefruit juice together statins is a definite no-no. This combination actually increases cholesterol levels in the bloodstream.

Statin drugs have also been reported to affect one's ability to concentrate, to remember and to think. They have also been known to induce depression. Statins have been reported to cause recurring headaches, joint pain, abdominal pain, numbness and tingling in one's hands and feet.

Other side effects reported include sleep problems, dizziness, a sense of detachment, swelling, shortness of breath, changes in vision, weight change, hunger, breast enlargement, blood sugar changes, dry skin, rashes, blood pressure changes, nausea, upset stomach, bleeding and ring in the ears.

The other aspect of these drugs are that they are quite expensive and not affordable to the common man. Companies claim that they have to reclaim their research and development outlay and that is why prices are so high.

Natural Super-Foods With No Side Effects.

There are a number of natural super-foods that if consumed regularly will lead to lower cholesterol level with absolutely no side effects. These foods in alphabetical order include almonds, apples, artichokes, avocadoes, beans, carrots, chocolates, oats, olive oil, onions, popcorn and fatty fish. There are a number of natural supplements that have been found to be very effective so much so that the drug manufacturers are using them in their next generation of cholesterol management drugs.

As always you must check with your physician before changing your diet program.

Nigel Gittens is a writer and researcher on Nutrition. For more great information on lower cholesterol, visit http://www.lowercholesterolstrategies.com/

Original article

Vita Heart - 6 Reasons Why This Supplement Is Good For Your Heart

Vita Heart is a supplement that can help lower down bad cholesterol level to make you less susceptible to heart ailments. If you have been searching for a good healthy supplement that can normalize the functions of your circulatory system, you might have come across a multitude of supplements that are purportedly good for the heart. Right now, you are probably wondering why you should pick Vita Heart instead of all those other supplements. Here are some of the reasons why this is a better option.

Vita Heart is a supplement that can help prevent plaque build up in the arteries. Clogged arteries have claimed the lives of many people. This disease often goes undetected until the time when the arteries burst and causes heart attack. You need to be careful because this can be a traitorous disease. You might feel normal and healthy right now but you might already be sporting clogged arteries. Use this supplement to prevent this from happening.

Vita Heart is a good weight loss supplement. One of the tell-tale signs of a bad heart is the thickening of the waist. The fats that have accumulated around your waist are a sign that wastes have also accumulated in your heart's arteries. Use this supplement to reduce the cholesterol absorption of your body. It helps prevent the absorption of bad cholesterol level. With its help, you can promote better heart functions and lose some weight.

Vita Heart effectively balances the levels of homocysteine in your system. This is an amino acid that is inherent in our body. It is present in our blood stream and it works in normalizing brain and heart functions. It is also found in meat. If you eat lots of meat, you risk the chances of increasing the amino acid levels, thereby causing vascular problems. Prevent this from happening using this effective supplement.

Vita Heart has antioxidant properties. This supplement features an ingredient called policosanol. This is a beneficial ingredient because of its antioxidant properties that can help boost blood flow and normalize blood circulation. This is also needed to stave off aging in the vital organs of the body including the heart and the brain.

Vita Heart contains Niacin. This is a part of the B vitamin group. It functions in processing carbohydrates and proteins in the body. You can also rely on this vitamin to improve the functions of the brain and the nervous system. Experts found out that it also plays a major role in the reduction of bad cholesterol level.

Vita Heart contains garlic, a natural ingredient that can promote better health. Garlic is a natural ingredient that contains allinin, a kind of sulfur famous for its ability to lower down blood cholesterol level.

Vita Heart has a myriad of health benefits you wouldn't want to miss out on. You need this if you don't want plaque to build up in your arteries that might cause an untimely death in the future. Reduce your body's rapid absorption of the calories you are eating, thereby allowing you to slim down. This supplement also works in normalizing homocysteine levels in the body to prevent vascular problems. It also contains antioxidants that can fight cellular stress. Niacin is also found here to help in the reduction of bad cholesterol level. If you want a natural way to fight heart diseases, try Vita Heart.

If you want to get more details about Vita Heart products, you may check out this website on heart wellness.

Original article

EKG Interpretation - Pioneers of the EKG

Before we begin a serious study of 12 lead EKG interpretation, left us first take a moment to give credit to those earliest of pioneers who conducted groundbreaking research that led to the modern 12 lead EKG.

In this article, we will discuss Luigi Galvani, Kollicker and Mueller, Ludwig and Waller, and finally, Willem Einthoven.

Luigi Galvani (1737 - 1798)

This physicist and physician lived in Bologna, Italy.

Early in the 16th century, the relationship between the nerves and the muscles was not understood. In fact, it wasn't always obvious that the nerves carried electrical impulses to stimulate muscles. It was only in 1790 that Luigi Galvani discovered this connection. In front of an audience of stunned scientists, he made detached frog legs dance upon the application of an electrical current.

Rudolf von Kollicker (1817 - 1905)

Johannes Peter Mueller (1801 - 1858)

Mueller was a German physiologist who studied at the University of Bonn. He later moved to Humbolt University of Berlin, where he was the chair of anatomy and physiology. Kollicker was Swiss, but studied in Berlin, as a pupil of Mueller. Over 50 years after Galvani, in 1855, Kollicker and Mueller demonstrated that the heart beats due to electrical stimulus. They did this by laying electrodes over top of a beating heart and then connecting the electrodes to detached frog legs. Each time that the heart beat, the frog legs moved.

Augustus D. Waller (1856 - 1922)

Carl Friedrich Willem Ludwig (1816 - 1895)

Carl Ludwig was appointed professor of physiology at the University of Leipzig in 1865. Augustus Waller was his student. At Aberdeen University, Waller studied medicine. He became a lecturer in physiology at St Mary's hospital. Not only did he have a laboratory at home, but his wife, children, and pet bulldogs participated in his experiments. In 1887, he used a capillary electrometer to record the first electrocardiogram. He attached a photographic film to a slowly moving toy train. He did not think, however, that this information would be useful in hospitals.

Tests conducted during this time were done through vivisection - open heart surgery on living animals. It wasn't until the 1880s that Ludwig and Waller showed that you could contact the heart's electrical signal not only by making direct contact with the heart, but by placing electrodes on the skin.

Willem Einthoven (1860 - 1927)

Finally, in 1904, Willem Einthoven was able to make the graph of the electrical signals originating at the heart. He won the Nobel Prize in Medicine in 1924 for his invention which he called the electrokardiogram. Einthoven was a Dutch doctor and physiologist. He studied at the University of Utrecht and became a professor at the University of Leiden in 1886. His original machine required 5 people to operate and weighed 500 lb. He named the deflections that he saw using the letters P,Q,R,S, and T. He also showed that this machine could be used to diagnose heart abnormalities.

This first EKG used only limb leads. It wasn't until later in the 20th century that the chest leads were added to create the 12 lead EKG.

As you continue on to further your study of EKG interpretation, remember these pioneers who made this critical measurement possible.

Provides a 12-Lead EKG class that is applicable for all medical personnel. Our program is a fast paced, PowerPoint based program that can be completed in 3 hours, and then reviewed endlessly at your leisure. The training includes illustrations, examples, and a voice "teaching" the course to you. Learn more about EKG Interpretation when you visit http://www.emsekg.com/.

Original article

How To Lower Your Cholesterol

Cholesterol is a fatty substance that is produced in the liver. The liver produces 75% of one's cholesterol needs. The other 25% comes from the foods that we consume. The cholesterol consumed are of two types - bad cholesterol or LDL (low density lipoproteins) and good cholesterol or HDL (high density lipoproteins). How we lower cholesterol depends on our consumption of good cholesterol and our avoidance of bad cholesterol.

Cholesterol is necessary for the proper functioning of the body. It is needed for the production of hormones, Vitamin D and the bile acids that help digest fat. The body however only needs a certain amount and certain type for these purposes. With most modern day foods, these are normally packed with high levels of bad cholesterol and consumption usually leads to heart disease. Your cholesterol strategy should consist of lowering your LDL (bad cholesterol) and raising your HDL (good cholesterol).

Lowering your LDLs can be achieved by limiting or eliminating those foods that are high in saturated fats and trans-fats. Raising your HDLs can be achieved by eating many portions of fruits and vegetables every day as well as using olive oil and canola oil instead of butter and margarine. The American Heart Association recommends that you consume less than 300 milligrams of cholesterol daily and if you have heart disease you consume less than 200 milligrams.

Cholesterol lowering drugs may be necessary to lower one's cholesterol. A doctor will normally prescribe the appropriate medication depending on the number of risk factors one has for heart disease. Persons who have multiple conditions such as diabetes, heart disease and hypertension have no alternative but to take the medication to control their bad cholesterol level. There has however been some reports within recent years of side effects from these drugs that are quite unacceptable - immune system suppression, kidney failure, general weakness and susceptibility to cancer.

A lower cholesterol strategy usually involves a total lifestyle change - a changed diet, an elimination of the smoking habit, a reduction in the consumption of alcohol, and a regular exercise program. A simple blood test can determine one's cholesterol profile. Thereafter an appropriate diet and lifestyle regimen could be adopted.

While in the short term prescription drugs may have to be continued, the real solution to this problem relies on an embrace of a diet largely comprising of what Providence provides for human beings to consume naturally, these are, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, ground provisions and pure water.

Nigel Gittens is a writer and researcher on Nutrition. You can get more great free information on lower cholesterol, visit http://www.lowercholesterolstrategies.com/

Original article

Side Effects of Heart Medicines: Use It With Care

Simvastatin is mainly a hypolipidemic medicine, which is used to treat patients with high triglycerides and high cholesterol. It also plays an important role in preventing cardiovascular diseases and reduces the risk of strokes and a heart attack. Simvastatin is highly recommended to the patients with diabetes, heart diseases and peripheral vascular diseases. This drug is also effective in treating children and young adults (10 years - 17 years) with high cholesterol level. Simvastatin is not only available under the generic name but also it is available under the brand names viz. Simlup, Zocor, Simvacor and Simcard.

Side Effects of Simvastatin

Likewise any other medicine, Simvastatin also has some side effects. However, this does not mean that anyone who takes it will certainly experience its side effects. It is seen that most of the patients withstand Simvastatin quite well. Medical research has shown that the side effects of Simvastatin were so minor that its consumers did not go for any medical treatment. Nonetheless, in some cases, side effects were easily treated by a medical practitioner.

Headaches, abdominal pain, indigestion, diarrhoea and asthenia (a feeling of weakness) are a few side effects, which can be easily cured. Some patients who are using Simvastatin have also reported constipation, flatulence, nausea and minor upper respiratory infections.

Furthermore, very rare side effects of this particular drug include memory loss, joint pain and muscle cramps. In exceptional cases, a muscular pain medically known as Myalgia is also witnessed in patients who are taking Simvastatin. In case, if a patient experiences inexplicable muscle pain, weakness or tenderness (particularly if it is supplemented by a feeling of infirmity or fever), health provider should be immediately contacted. A continuous usage of this drug has also reported Cholestatic Hepatitis, Myositis, Rhabdomyolysis and Hepatic Cirrhosis in few patients.

Avoid Grapefruit juice while using Simvastatin

Grapefruit juice sometimes impinges on some heart medicines and cholesterol-lowering agents as it obstructs the work of enzymes in the intestines that metabolize quite a number of drugs. This does not mean that all citrus fruits have this enzyme. However, Grapefruit contains an active element that generates this effect. One should avoid Grapefruit juice during the treatment of heart disease especially with some heart medicines. Some of the popular cholesterol-lowering agents have shown negative outcomes when consumed with grapefruit juice. These include simvastatin (Zocor), atorvastatin (Lipitor) and lovastatin (Mevacor).

Last Word

Although, Simvastatin has very few and rare side effects, it is advisable to contact the doctor in case of a backlash.

Original article

Heart Disease Prevention - How to Reduce Your Cholesterol Levels

Doctors worldwide will tell you that cholesterol is one of the primary factors for heart diseases. Unhealthy levels of cholesterol in the blood can increase weight problems and probabilities of a heart attack.

Here are some easy tips that can be included in the daily life routine to help live a life free of cholesterol!

1. Follow a diet controlled by the expertise of a professional dietician / doctor.

2. One of the most effective and healthiest of all tips to control cholesterol is undoubtedly Exercising.

3. Why? Because Exercising increases the heart rate thereby improving the metabolism of the body allowing improved expulsion of harmful oils, detrimental to an individual's health.

4. The type of exercise to be done will depend largely on varied factors including medical history. The deciding factors also include age, gender and weight.

5. Needless to mention, those beginning exercising must first consult a physician and ensure safety in doing them.

6. Heart ailment patients might be advised against any rigorous exercises but could resort to simpler alternates like stretching, weight lifting, walking, etc.

7. If a physician allows some high impact exercises, participate mandatorily in swimming, running, bicycling, aerobics, etc.

8. Consult a doctor to sketch a fitness plan in detail and ensure adherence to the same with the guidance of a professional fitness trainer. Following the plan duly is in the hands of the patient!

9. Results of such plans normally become evident within a week or two. Very soon bad cholesterol will start getting reduced in the body, replaced with good cholesterol leading to a considerable reduction in the body weight.

10. Exercising has less or no side effects as compared to consuming drugs which potentially has a lot of side effects on the body.

11. Brisk walking in the early morning or just before going to your workplace is highly recommended to those who do not have time in their daily schedule to go to a gym.

12. Whenever exercising in any form or format, consuming lots of water is highly recommended as it helps a great deal.

13. This prevents the body from dehydration and repercussions thereby like exhaustion. For this, one doesn't need to run up to the fountain time and again; instead carry a water bottle! While working on a machine or participating in a group activity, this really helps and moving from one place to another time and again really doesn't help!

14. Some organizations these days encourage their people to walk up 1 or 2 flights of stairs, instead of using the elevators to go up & down only a few floors.

Lower Cholesterol definitely means lower probability of a heart ailment!

Learn more about how to Lower your Cholesterol.

Lower Cholesterol definitely will lower probability of a heart ailment. Find out more.

Original article

Dealing With Clogged Arteries

There are three sets of arteries that can become clogged and create life threatening problems. The most well known is, of course, the coronary arteries. These important blood vessels supply the heart muscle with the oxygen and nutrients it needs to keep blood moving throughout the body.

The carotid artery in the neck can also become clogged. That can lead to strokes. The peripheral arteries in your legs are another plaque target. When either of these become clogged, clots can form and that's what does the damage.

There are two ways you are likely to find out you've got clogged arteries. Testing before a problem begins or when the problem strikes. Needless to say, your chances of survival are much greater if it's prior to a heart attack or stroke.

Ultrasound: Special ultrasound equipment can check for clogged arteries without the need for invasive procedures. This is best done for those at risk but asymptomatic. In a way, it's an arterial checkup. Ultrasounds may also be used after problems develop, but that would not be the only testing procedure used.

Stress Tests: These tests are usually done on a treadmill. The doctor will attach the wires to the appropriate areas of the body and ramp up the machine. This shows how your heart and blood vessels work under load. If you are unable to use a treadmill, a chemical stress test is also available.

Angiogram: This is an invasive test, but it is one that can find blockages missed by the other tests, and that can happen. An incision is made in the groin and a camera is sent up to the heart. Dye in the blood stream allows the doctor to explore all the arteries in the heart, checking for blockages. If any are found, angioplasty may be done. This is done with a balloon like object that gently opens the passages. Sometimes stents are added as well, to make sure the artery stays open.

If you have or are at risk for any sort of artery problem, it's a good idea to stay on top of it. Watch your diet, get plenty of exercise, but even that may not be enough. Get checkups regularly and make sure your doctor knows of your risk factors.

Original article

Trans Fats/Saturated Fats - What's the Difference?

Have you seen any food warnings lately about 'trans fats'? You probably have, because they're everywhere! They're usually mentioned along with saturated fats, and together they are targeted as the 'bad boys' you want to avoid if you don't want heart disease.'Trans fats' are sometimes referred to as saturated fats, because they act as though they ARE saturated. Yet saturated and trans fats are very,VERY different! Confusing? You betcha. But knowing the difference could save your health, and maybe your life!

I've already pointed out that saturated fat is found NATURALLY around your heart, in your cell walls, in your brain, and in the linings of your lungs. It is a natural component of your body, and one that your body needs. I also showed you that, chemically, saturated fats are stable, because the carbon atoms in them are all bound to hydrogen atoms - the bonds are 'saturated'. They are not likely to react with other compounds, causing free radicals. Saturated fat is found in foods such as butter, animal fat, whole milk, and coconut oil, all of which were consumed heartily before the 1950's, until 'warnings' were given that saturated fat would increase heart disease.

To 'solve' the problem of too much saturated fat ( which never was a problem - heart disease was rare in America until the mid to late 1900's), men took naturally unsaturated oils such as corn and soybean oil, exposed them to extremely high temperatures and pressure in the presence of hydrogen, and created a pseudo-saturated substance that the cells in our bodies CAN'T recognize. The process is known as hydrogenation, and the by-product of hydrogenation is partially hydrogenated oils, resulting in 'trans fats'.

Are 'trans fats' the same as saturated fats? NO. Trans fats are unsaturated fats that have been chemically rearranged through the process of hydrogenation so that they pack together more tightly, changing them from a liquid form to a solid form. Even though margarine may LOOK like butter, and shortening may LOOK like lard, they are not the same as what mother nature has given us! Though they may look, feel, and even taste like the real thing, they aren't!! The chemical structure may be similar, but they are still different! Trans fats interfere with normal cell metabolism, have been shown to reduce good cholesterol and increase bad cholesterol; they have been linked to diabetes, cancer, brain damage and obesity.They are UNNATURAL and our bodies know the difference, even if we don't!

Could it be that the rise in heart disease during the past 60+ years has NOT been from too many saturated fats, but from the extreme change in diet from NATURAL foods to 'refined', processed foods, unsaturated oils, and 'hydrogenated hybrids'?

Don't be fooled by look-a-likes that are as different as night and day. True saturated fats are NATURAL and healthy; man-made hydrogenated fats that resemble saturated fats can be deadly (literally!) Deep-frying in shortening is NOT wise.Using lard is much safer. Baking with shortenings is not a good idea either. My suggestion would be to find some coconut oil for all your baking purposes. Use real butter rather than margarine. Eating margarine is like eating plastic that has been softened, colored, and flavored!

Our bodies take a LOT! They are wonderfully made! But...they do break down, some faster than others. With heart disease and cancer on the rise, be WISE. Feed your bodies natural,live food given to us by our Maker. Your body will thank you!

For more healthy heart information, check out my home page at http://www.haveahealthyheartnow.com.

For more clarification on food myths and the effect they have on your health, check out http://www.haveahealthyheartnow.com/.

I inform people about some of the myths that are circulating concerning food as it relates to health, and provide suggestions that will dramatically increase the potential for living disease free.
I am the mother of 5 and grandmother of 6 girls, with one on the way! Married to Kirby!

Original article

Natural Ways Of Bringing Down Your Cholesterol

Cholesterol, a health condition associated with a lot of people worldwide has turned to be the root upon which major illness and sickness arise from. According to its definition by Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary 7th Edition, Cholesterol is a substance found in blood, fat and tissues of the body which a lot of it in the body can cause heart diseases etc. This reveals that not all cholesterol are bad because there are as a matter of fact good and bad cholesterol. The good cholesterol that our body needs are known as HDL (High Density Lipoprotein) while the bad ones are known as LDL (Low Density Lipoprotein).

So, if you are concerned with what prompts the bad cholesterol in our body, you may find out that it has been attributed to what we eat. Food are necessary and essential things that reduces or keeps one cholesterol level in check. For instance Pate, Macaroni Cheese, Milk shakes, Butter, Red Meat, Pastries, Fries etc can constantly increase one's cholesterol level while Olive Oil, Pawns, Rapeseed Oil, Eggs etc can keep it in check. Not only what we eat or the type of food we eat that increases one's cholesterol level but also the way by which it is being prepared. A lot of people who love Roasting and Frying their meals, (trust me those methods actually bring out the taste of a food making it enjoyable, lovely and whatever our imagination can think of) after eating and enjoying it, regret its terrible tell-tale in their body system.

I will tell you, roasting and frying seriously have a big impact because of the level of oil it consumes which in turn are deposited in our body thus increasing the cholesterol level in our body and exposing us to heart attack and heart-related diseases. So instead of Roasting and Frying, why not go for Boiling, Grilling, Micro-waving and Poaching.

Also Survey research and Experts' works have shown that having at least a thirty minutes intensive exercise daily can eradicate the excuse of high cholesterol. For instance Swimming, Jogging, Running, Walking, Dancing, Cycling, etc can improve these levels.

Finally if we help ourselves by putting a decrease to those Butter, Fatty and Greasy food, the door to healthy life will definitely be wide open. Therefore acting now on these few tips can improve the once lost hope of having a good cholesterol but negating it may just be another bridge to heart diseases and unhealthy life.

Would you like to know more? Check out this site for more information about the above topic!

Original article

Dietary Cholesterol Is Not the Cause of Heart Disease

Ask anyone about cholesterol and heart disease and they are likely to say that cholesterol in the blood causes fatty deposits to accumulate in the artery, causing the artery to block. A bit like silt accumulating in a pipe. But where did this theory come from?

Back in the 1950's, a doctor called Ancel Keys carried out a research study which looked at the relationship between dietary fat intake and heart disease deaths. His work resulted in him making the front cover of Time magazine, and the government adopted his theory to push a low fat diet solution to the nation.

But the interesting thing is that Keys's study was a fix! It was known as The Seven Nations study, yet his research covered twenty two countries, the data from which showed no correlation between fat consumed and heart deaths. Keys chose to pick only seven countries whose data could be presented as meeting his hypothesis and he ditched the rest. It was scientific fraud! However, the theory had taken hold, gained a life of its own and no one wanted to put the brakes on.

So this wisdom that is pushed by governments, pharmaceutical companies, food companies, agricultural companies and whoever else, is that you will be at a much reduced risk of heart disease if you lower your cholesterol.

This still continues to be the norm, even though much respected research studies have shown that it isn't so. For instance, in 1948, The Framingham Heart Study began, in accordance with the then National Heart Institute. It is still running today and has so far researched over fifteen thousand people over three generations. After twenty two years, it announced that they had found no relation between diet and heart disease. Another twenty seven years of research is done, and in 1997 the Framingham Study announced that they had found no association of dietary fat and heart disease when responding to suggestion that deaths from coronary heart disease had affected data in research on strokes.

One doctor who had involvement in the Framingham Study research(so not just some naysayer!) was Dr George V Mann, a biochemist and physician, maybe this quote from him illustrates why low fat/low cholesterol is still pushed as the answer to heart disease. "The diet-heart hypothesis has been repeatedly shown to be wrong, and yet, for complicated reasons or pride, profit and prejudice, the hypothesis continues to be exploited by scientists, fund-raising enterprises, food companies and even governmental agencies. The public is being deceived by the greatest health scam of the century."

Considering the above, what hypothesis should we be looking at? Maybe it should be this...excessive insulin in the bloodstream kick starts a chain reaction of oxidation and inflammation that causes heart disease.

Let's delve into what that really means. Our modern intake of moderate to high amounts of processed carbohydrates, sugars, starches and grains brings forth too much glucose into the bloodstream which needs to be removed by continual surges of insulin which the pancreas sends out.

There's two things to focus on from this. Excessive insulin results in the production of more small, dense LDL particles in the bloodstream. By the way, LDL means "low density lipoprotein," it is what transports cholesterol around the body to fulfil its many functions. The second issue is that LDL is chemically altered by insulin.

The body doesn't like that alteration, it's recognised as unnatural, foreign, so the body sets off an oxidation process to get rid of it. However, the oxidation action causes the walls of arteries to change from smooth to sticky. Oxidised deposits of that LDL stick to the wall of the artery forming plaque and the whole process causes the area around the artery to inflame.

The plaque that accumulates in the wall of the artery has a lipid core which spills into the artery when it ruptures. The resulting blood clot leads to a heart attack.

It's the oxidation of LDL cholesterol(that is produced by the liver, not from food we eat) happening at an excessive level and the arterial inflammation that it produces that is the main cause of coronary heart disease.

If excessive insulin is not present in our bloodstream, then the amount of LDL cholesterol that we have has no relevance to heart disease risk. The impact of diet on heart disease risk is significant, but not in the way that was first presented sixty years ago, the misinformed way that still dominates the health advice that we receive.

The author has an interest in alternatives to medication for treating heart disease. For more information visit Statins Side Effects.

Original article

Only Good Cholesterol Diets Lower Cholesterol

The idea is to stop eating those foods that increase cholesterol and only eat those foods that dismantle, mop up and expel bad cholesterol from the body. Only good cholesterol diets lower cholesterol.

Foods that are rich in saturated fats, trans-fats, sugars, salt and white flour are the foods that increase these cholesterol deposits in the bloodstream. These deposits then attach themselves to the walls of the blood vessels causing dangerous blockages to occur.

Foods that are rich in fiber such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, cereals, ground provision, peas and beans - these foods have the ability to neutralize the effect of bad cholesterol by absorbing or mopping up these fats and trans-fats, build strength in the walls of the blood vessels to protect from further erosion.

Low cholesterol foods also have low calorific value and also aid in any weight loss program. They are rich in vitamins and minerals which are vital for the proper functioning of the body. These foods also reduce the risk of cancer, high blood pressure and because of its anti-arteriosclerotic activity they reduce the risk of heart disease.

There is a great debate going as to whether lean meat is a source of good cholesterol. Some people say that such meats as chicken, turkey, fish, lean red meat, are sources of low cholesterol and they contain much essential minerals, proteins, vitamins and micronutrients that are good for efficient metabolism. The problem with meat today is that it is filled with hormones and in the case of fish, mercury toxins. Meat is not low in calorific value and over time makes one obese. The obesity problem in America is mainly due to the consumption of meat.

Here then is a sample of a diet for low cholesterol which you can use for breakfast lunch and dinner:-

Breakfast - Soy milk, oat bran cereal with fruit and almonds, oat meal bread, olive oil.

Lunch - Soy cold cuts, oat bran bread, bean soup and fruit

Dinner - Stir-fry vegetables, fruit, nuts.

This type of diet will ensure low cholesterol if followed over time. Also of great importance is the consumption of large quantities of pure water and a daily exercise program.

The following are some more general guidelines that will serve one in good stead:-
As a general rule you should eat more foods that increase the level of good cholesterol such as garlic, fruits and vegetables, whole grain foods and fibrous foods,
If you are a fish eater, eat those fatty fishes because of their omega-3 fatty acid content. These are mackerel, salmon, herring and tuna fish.
Your good cholesterol foods must be rich in antioxidants and nutrients - vitamin C, beta carotene (vitamin A), vitamin E and selenium. All fresh fruit, dried fruit and vegetables will supply these.
Consume 2-3 liters of pure water daily. This will flush out toxins and remove bad cholesterol.
Consumption of saturated fats in the form of animal fats should be avoided. These contain lots of bad cholesterol. If this is to be consumed, it should be with fibers and water,
Increase your intake of unsaturated fats such as olive oil, almonds, nuts and unrefined vegetable oils. These prevent cardiovascular diseases and some kinds of cancers,
Decrease or eliminate the use of foods that decrease the level of good cholesterol such as margarines, butter and sunflower oil. Replace with white vinegar, olive oil and canola oil,
If you are to consume alcohol, limit it to two glasses of wine or beer a day. These are particularly rich in antioxidants and help in the production of good cholesterol.

All this advice should confirmed with your health professional before embarking on same.

Nigel Gittens is a writer and researcher on Nutrition. For more great information on lower cholesterol, visit http://www.lowercholesterolstrategies.com/

Original article

How to Reverse Heart Disease Naturally

No one ever thinks it can happen to them. There is a reason why it is the number one killer. If you survived a heart attack you now have been given a second chance on life to now reverse heart disease. Definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting the same results. If you have had a heart attack, chest pain or some form of cardiovascular disease you can reverse heart disease but this does take an immense amount of work.

Many times a cardiologist will talk to you about your options after a heart attack or upon diagnosis of coronary artery disease. Heart medications along with having a stent or bypass surgery can be options to treat this disease, but this will not reverse heart disease.

There are four components you should know but it is important to first understand your anatomy.

The first component is exercise. Exercise is medicine, specifically aerobic exercise. See your heart experts to ensure you are exercising safely and effectively. If you want to reverse this disease you have to get your daily sweat. There is no magic pill other than discipline.

The next component is eating heart healthy. Yes we all know what to eat, but are we? Nutrition is so important to reverse heart disease. Foods high in antioxidants and that help inflammation are the ones that are not advertising to us in the grocery store.

The third component is controlling stress. Everyone has stress it is just so important to have good coping strategies to combat stress. Yoga, tai chi, and meditation are so important if you want to reverse this disease.

The last component is smoking and second hand smoking. You want to stay away and adopt a smoke free lifestyle. Yes it is an addiction but it will get you back in the hospital so quick. You have to find ways to quit and there are many. Talk to your heart experts to find a strategy to help you reverse heart disease.

Many cardiologists and physician lack the time and availability to really promote the reversal of this disease. Medications are important however they are not the answer to reverse heart disease. You are 100% responsible for your heart health. Not your spouse not your doctor. Take charge of your heart health.

Doctor Oz talks about this often and we agree with this comment. It is really not about you, it is about the people we love in our lives, the people who care about us, the people who depend on us at work and elsewhere. So looking at it in that context is what will help you find your purpose be a success.

Diamond Fernandes, expert author on heart disease. Diamond Fernandes is the founder and director of the Heart Fit Clinic. He has well over a decade of experience in cardiac rehabilitation, maintenance and prevention. Please view his bio at the Heart Fit Clinic who are the leader in cardiac rehabilitation, maintenance and prevention. If you are looking to reverse heart disease you should start with your heart experts. They see people who have heart disease or at risk of developing heart disease and help them live happier, healthier and longer.

Original article

The Link Between Heart Disease and Cholesterol

Did the blood tests recommended by your doctor show that you have high cholesterol or triglyceride levels? Do you have poor diet and exercise habits that have resulted in weight gain? If so, you may be at risk for heart disease. What do you do?

You should develop a healthy lifestyle that includes appropriate weight loss and changes in diet and exercise. This is especially true for heart patients. For those with existing high levels, medications may be an important complement to both diet and exercise in helping to lower and maintain your cholesterol levels. (Remember to talk with your doctor before implementing an exercise program or making drastic changes to your diet.)

Cholesterol and Triglycerides?

Hyperlipidemia is the general term applied to high blood cholesterol and/or elevated blood triglycerides. We now know that elevated triglycerides promote the deposition of cholesterol in the arteries, which results in a thickening and hardening of the artery walls, a condition known as atherosclerosis. Reducing triglycerides in the bloodstream is a good strategy to help minimize heart problems.

According to the American Heart Association, one study by Koren-Morag, Graff and Goldbourt found that individuals with elevated triglycerides have a nearly 30% increased probability of suffering a stroke, even after taking into account other risk factors such as cholesterol levels. One of the most important aspects of this study is that it clarifies the independent link of lipids to stroke, meaning that a causal relationship is likely. Adjusting your intake of fat is very important.

Responding to High Cholesterol

Researchers have established a strong link between high cholesterol and heart problems and, more recently, between high triglyceride levels and heart problems. When blood levels of these lipids are low, the likelihood that they will directly contribute to disease is much lower.

The good news is that their levels can be managed. Also it is ideal that you target your LDL levels to below 100 mg/dL of blood if you're a heart patient and to below 130 mg/dL if you do not have heart disease.

The Inheritance Factor

Because a genetic basis exists for the production of lipids and for their concentration in your bloodstream, a family history of heart disease suggests an increased likelihood of developing heart problems.

The Role of Medicine

For some people, changing food intake patterns and adopting an effective exercise program are not enough to reduce LDL levels to normal.

Jimmy Thakkar runs a health based blog under the name of Bodyalivenutrition.com. He also manages a WordPress blog which provides articles on best ways to lower your cholesterol.

Original article

3 Ways to Improve Your Heart Health

Heart: Size of a fist, strongest muscle in the body, a marvellous system that starts beating about three weeks after conception but vulnerable! Vulnerable to damage from things that we do or may be born with a heart condition.

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is biggest killer in both men and women globally. Globally, 17.1 million lives are claimed every year accounting for 29% of all deaths caused by CVD, making it world's number one killer. In Australia, it accounted for 34% of all deaths in 2008. Cardiovascular disease kills one Australian nearly every 11 minutes as per national heart foundation. It remains one of the biggest burdens on our economy.

Sadly a disease that can be mostly prevented is number one killer of loved ones globally.

In developed countries, the main underlying problem is atherosclerosis. This is a condition that forms abnormal build-ups of fat, cholesterol and other substances in the inner lining of the arteries (plaque). It is most serious when it affects the blood supply to the heart (causing angina or heart attack) or to brain (which can lead to stroke). The process leading to atherosclerosis is slow and complex, often starting in childhood, and it progress with age.

What is cardiovascular disease?

Cardiovascular disease is disease and conditions of heart (cardio) and blood vessels (vascular disease) including heart attack and stroke. It is a broad term used for heart, stroke and blood vessel diseases and any system that has heart at its centre. There are many groups of cardiovascular disease, some of them are:

Rheumatic heart disease - It is a type of heart disease caused by one or more attacks of rheumatic fever. Rheumatic fever usually occurs in childhood. It may follow a streptococcal infection that may affect the heart, particularly the heart valves, weakening the heart muscle, or damaging the sac enclosing the heart.

Congenital heart disease - It is a heart defect present at birth. It can be caused by adverse exposures during pregnancy or genetic factors but mostly the cause is unknown.

Hypertensive heart disease - High blood pressure can overburden heart and blood vessels, thereby causing hypertensive heart disease. It may be of unknown origin, known as primary hypertension or secondary to a specific diseases or infections.

Ischemic heart disease - Ischemic heart disease is sometimes commonly referred as coronary heart disease. It is caused by narrowing of the blood vessels supplying the heart muscles. Therefore, blood supply to the heart is decreased and may cause conditions like angina, heart attack, sudden death.

Cerebrovascular disease (stroke) - Commonly known as cerebrovascular accident (CVA) or stroke is the brain equivalent to a heart attack. It is the result of an impeded blood supply to some part of the brain.

Inflammatory heart disease - Inflammatory heart disease may be caused following an infection or by a toxin or may be of an unknown origin. It may affect the heart muscle (myocarditis), the membrane sac (pericarditis), the inner lining of the heart (endocarditis) or the myocardium (heart muscle).

Is cardiovascular disease preventable?

Cardiovascular disease is mostly preventable. Some people are born with condition that predisposes them to heart disease and stroke but most people who develop cardiovascular disease is due to combination of one or more risk factors.

There are many risk factors associated with coronary heart disease and stroke. The major risk factors include smoking, alcohol use, high blood pressure (hypertension), high cholesterol, obesity and overweight, physical inactivity, unhealthy diets, high glucose levels (diabetes), physical inactivity to name a few. The more risk factors you expose yourself to, the higher the chance of developing cardiovascular disease.

The role of diet is crucial in the development and prevention of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Diet is a key modifiable risk factor for CVD.

Most heart disease is preventable, and risks can be reduced by lifestyle changes such as increasing physical activity, choosing healthy eating habits (food options), saying no to smoking, to name just three.

Economic Impact

Cardiovascular disease is expensive and cost billions of dollars around the world. The economic implications could be vast. It is felt as cost to the country's health as well as loss of income and production of those affected either directly by the disease and as caregivers to those with cardiovascular disease, who cease to work.

Cardiovascular disease is also one of the leading causes of disability, with around millions of people estimated to have disability associated with cardiovascular conditions.

It affects one in five Australians, and affects two out of three families.

Can we help to reduce the burden?

Simple answer is YES we can help! Cardiovascular disease is mostly preventable. Simple steps like:
heatlhy eating habitsincreasing physical activitystop smoking

... to name three can be anyone's starting point.

There is no dollar figure that could be associated to the loss of loved ones. So, do not let your loved ones get affected by it.

Nations around the world feel the burden of cardiovascular disease.

So, why not take the responsibility and make a commitment to change the way we live and help ourselves, family, friends and future generations towards a healthy heart...

There is a heart that keeps us alive...so let's help to keep it alive!

About Author:

Dr Hemani Thukral is Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery. She received her degree in 1995 from Maulana Azad Medical College, a highly reputed and a prestigious institution in India. Dr Hemani practiced medicine in India as a resident doctor in multi-specialty hospitals and worked closely with the healthcare system. Through her years of experience in medicine, she has deep knowledge and understanding of health-care, quality, patient care, safety.

Dr Hemani Thukral founded MyMedicalChoices (http://www.mymedicalchoices.com.au/) in 2007. A medical tourism company based in Australia. MyMedicalChoices is committed to deliver excellence in overseas medical treatment (commonly known as medical tourism). Dr Hemani laid the foundation of company based on Quality, Trust and Savings! She has appeared on national TV several times as an expert on medical tourism.

Dr Hemani also worked in world's largest consulting company as an Information Technology security specialist. An exceptional combination of professional backgrounds, special academic interest in healthcare and quest to help are her key strengths.

Original article

What You Should Know About Heat Stroke and TIA Stroke

Heat stroke and TIA stroke are disorders that are highly preventable if you know how to take care of yourself. Prevention starts by learning about what diseases are such as their causes, signs and symptoms and the particular treatment methods. When you are aware of these information, then you will be able to avoid these disorders.

Heat stroke or also referred to as sun stroke is a medical condition that is life-threatening, brought about by increased body temperature that eventually causes damage to the different organs of the body. According to statistics, there are about 700 people who die yearly of heat stroke in the United States. Heat stroke happens when the temperature of the body goes beyond 40.5 degree Celsius and when the cooling system of the body stops working. This is a medical emergency that needs to be promptly treated since it can lead to death.

There are two ways in which heat stroke happens. The first one is when the cooling mechanisms of a person are impaired and the other is when a person does strenuous activities in a very hot environment. Those who are at risk of developing sun stroke are infants, athletes, the elderly and those who work outdoors. The signs and symptoms of heat stroke include nausea and vomiting, fatigue and body weakness, headaches, dizziness and muscle cramps. There is also the absence of perspiration and extremely high body temperature, rapid pulse, flushed and red skin, difficulty of breathing, confusion, disorientation and seizures.

To treat heat stroke, rehydration is very important to ensure that the blood flow within the body is still normal. Oral fluids are important such as cool sports drinks with less glucose. If oral fluids are not tolerated, then IV fluids should be used. The person should also be staying in a cool environment and adequate rest is required. There are different methods of making the body cool down, including evaporation, immersion and placing ice packs under the armpits and the groin. However, the temperature should be brought down and maintained at 38.5 - 39 degree Celsius so as not to make the body too cold.

On the other hand, transient ischemic attack or TIA stroke is a neurologic disorder caused by a blood clot in the brain, spinal cord or the retina. This is also called mini stroke since tissue death does not happen even if there is a disruption in the cerebral blood flow. It should not be taken lightly since when it is not treated, worse attacks can happen that will eventually lead to ischemic stroke.

The manifestations of TIA stroke include weakness and numbness that occurs in the face, the arms or the legs that happens suddenly, and is usually localized on one side of the body. There can also be confusion, slurred speech, blurring of vision, inability to maintain balance and coordination, dizziness and headache. These symptoms can occur rapidly and can last for only a short time. However, you should seek for immediate treatment since this can lead to a major stroke. The treatment is focused on lowering down the blood pressure, the cholesterol and lipid levels. There will be medications given to you such as aspirin to help dissolve the clot and prevent further clot formation. There will also be blood pressure lowering medications, anti-platelet drugs and medicines that lower down your cholesterol levels.

If TIA stroke and heat stroke are not treated immediately, there are several complications that can happen. But you can always avoid them when you know how to avoid having these disorders.

For more information on Different Types of Diseases, Symptoms and Diagnoses, Please visit: Heat Stroke and TIA Stroke.

Original article

Natural Lower Cholesterol Foods

High cholesterol is in fact the most common cause of chronic disease and is particularly related to cardiovascular diseases.

Before going any further it must be stated cholesterol is not all that bad and some cholesterol is needed in the system for good health. The "low" in low cholesterol really means an absence of bad or ldl cholesterol. Ldl means low-density lipoproteins. This substance has to be absorbed by certain foods or flushed out of the system so hence the reason for low cholesterol foods which can carry out this function.

To achieve success in the battle for lower cholesterol, you not only have to change what you eat, you must also change your lifestyle. Changing what you eat means eliminating foods that are high in saturated fats and trans-fats. Saturated fats and trans-fats are substances full of high cholesterol. Examples of foods full of saturated fats and trans-fats are most meats, most whole milk dairy products, some fish and many types of cooking oils. Changing one's lifestyle involves the elimination of such bad habits as smoking, excessive alcoholic consumption and an overly sedentary life routine.

The sedentary lifestyle can be overcome by adopting a more active daily routine. This will make the cardiovascular system more robust and healthy and includes walking, jogging, biking, swimming, etc. These should be engaged in at least three times per week for a duration of 45 minutes.

Eating cholesterol lowering foods is very simple. Just consume those that are provided by Nature and you would be spot on. These foods are the common fruits and vegetables, whole grains, ground nuts, peas, beans and ground provisions.

Fruits are good sources of fiber, vitamins and carbohydrates. The vitamin C in fruit make the arterial walls of the blood vessels strong. Vegetables are also good sources of fiber, minerals and vitamins and they also have the ability to mop up or absorb and eliminate bad cholesterol from the system. Whole grains also mop up and absorb bad cholesterol as well as provide significant vitamins and minerals for the body.

Ground nuts are a high source of protein, energy, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins and minerals. Ground nuts can also aid in any weight reduction program. The nuts that are effective in this regard are cashews, almonds, macadamia, walnuts and pecans. Peas and beans also provide protein, fiber and good cholesterol. Ground provision are a great source of fiber and energy.

So to summarize in a practical way what your approach to a lower cholesterol diet should be:-

i) Increase your intake of fibrous foods. The greater the amount of fiber the better as this flushes out toxins and excess bad cholesterol. This means consumption of more whole grain foods, fruits and vegetables.

ii) Decrease considerably your intake of red meat. Avoid beef which is particularly high in bad cholesterol.

iii) Decrease your intake of processed animal fats which include dairy products - butter, cheese and cream. These are also high in saturated fats and trans-fats.

iv) Increase your intake of foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids such as almonds, pistachios, walnuts and fish such as tuna, mackerel, salmon and herring.

v) Finally a more active lifestyle including a daily exercise program as well as the elimination of smoking and excessive alcoholic consumption is necessary.

Finally, a few words on prescription drugs which have assumed great prominence today. These have been known to have very unpleasant side effects and as a result are losing their popularity. Certain natural super-foods can now be consumed which provide equal effectiveness but with no side effects. These should be explored before using medication.

As with any new dietary or exercise advice, you should consult with your doctor before proceeding.

Nigel Gittens is a writer and researcher on Nutrition. For more great information on lower cholesterol, visit http://www.lowercholesterolstrategies.com/

Original article

Foods To Eat For A Lower Cholesterol Level

The dietary changes required have the objective of lowering the bad cholesterol (LDL) and raising the level of good cholesterol (HDL). Lowering the bad cholesterol means that the bad cholesterol foods with high contents of saturated fats and trans-fats should be avoided or significantly reduced altogether. Examples of such foods are meats, full fat dairy products, some oils, margarines, cookies, crackers and cakes, butter, ice cream, cheese, eggs, etc.

Good cholesterol foods include fatty fish, walnuts, oatmeal, oat bran and all fruits and vegetables. If one is chronic then these foods together with cholesterol lowering medication and an appropriate exercise program should improve the cholesterol level. With this discipline in place the time will come when medication may not be necessary and this will be to the relief from the debilitating side effects that these medications bring about.

The other lifestyle change is to put in place a regular exercise program. Thirty minute of brisk walking five days a week will lower your bad cholesterol and raise your good cholesterol. In addition a more active routine during the course of one's day can help with weight loss. A lower weight usually means a reduction in LDLs and overweight usually means an increase in LDLs. In addition being overweight usually means susceptibility to such diseases like diabetes which further complicates the bad cholesterol condition.

Stress can also lead to one having high cholesterol as studies have shown that chronic stress over a long period does lead to bad eating habits and the overconsumption of fatty foods containing saturated fats and trans-fats.

The other issue that is of major importance today is the impact that modern statin drugs are having on those who consume them. Statin drugs are prescriptions drugs that remove bad cholesterol from the system. These drugs are quite effective but their downside is the harsh side effects that attend upon their usage over the medium and longer terms. They have been known to cause cancer, cause immune system suppression, create fatigue and cause kidney failure. It is normally recommended that the use of any particular medication should not exceed four years.

The true cause of bad cholesterol is the consumption of foods that are not natural to the human body. As long as we continue to eat man-made foods in overall preference to nature-made or natural foods that are not compatible with the human body we will have this problem.

Consultations with your health professional is also always recommended when dealing with health issues.

Nigel Gittens is a writer and researcher on Nutrition. For more great free information on lower cholesterol, visit http://www.lowercholesterolstrategies.com/

Original article

10 Tips to a Healthy Heart

Today, everyone is talking about leading a healthy life and eating food that is good for the heart. Having a healthy heart is not only important for the old, even the young need to take care of their hearts.

Healthy Heart Tips

Here are 10 tips that will help you have a healthy heart and live a healthy life.

1. Stop Smoking

Quit smoking. This is a very important step towards living a healthy life. However, you should take a cup of oat straw infusion or sunflower seeds a month before you start to quit smoking. Sunflower seeds have the power to minimize craving for nicotine as they fill up the nicotine receptors. Your nerves and blood vessels have to be prepared against the affect of withdrawal, and the infusion helps in strengthening the nerves and the blood vessels.

2. Touch

Research has shown that people who are living a life full of love and affection are less likely to develop heart problems as compared to other people.

3. Seaweeds

It has also been found that seaweed is quite effective in maintaining a healthy heart.

• It helps calm down the blood pressure.
• It helps regulate triglyceride levels.
• It controls cholesterol and phospholipids in the body.
• It helps in dissolving the fat inside the blood vessels.
• It can help in restoring the proper functioning of the heart.
• It can help in extending the life of heart muscles and getting a stable heartbeat.

4. Beta-carotenes

Beta carotene helps in reducing the chances of strokes by as much as 40%. Some of the foods that contain high amount of beta-carotene are:

• Cabbage
• Carrots
• Winter squash
• Dark leafy vegetables
• Sweet potatoes
• Seaweed
• Apricots.

5. Garlic

Studies have shown that garlic helps in lowering blood pressure, reducing cholesterol and phospholipids. It also helps in other things like:

• Strengthening the functioning of the heart.
• Increasing the immune system response.
• Reducing clotting and clumping of platelets which helps in reducing strokes.
• Stabilizing blood sugar level.

You should include a few cloves of garlic in your food.

6. Essential Fatty Acids

Increase your intake of food high in essential fatty acids. The best example of this type of food is flax seed oil or wheat germ.

7. Lemon Balm Tea

Lemon balm helps in strengthening the heart. You can drink it as tea or a few leaves can be steeped in white wine for a couple of hours before you drink it with the dinner. You can also use lemon balm vinegar along with the salads.

8. Remain Active

Maintain an active lifestyle. Go for daily walks, swimming and regular exercise. Skip rope and engage in as much physical activity as you can.

9. Avoid Restrictive Diet

Avoid fasting, dieting or binging as they put your electrolyte levels out of balance. This can adversely affect your heart muscles, thus making them weak.

10. Healthy Food

Eat healthy food like whole grains, beans, vegetables, greens, seeds, fruits and fish. However, reduce the intake of dairy products.

Following these tips can help you strengthen your heart and say goodbye to future strokes or the need to undergo surgery and subsequent operating room protocols.

For more information, please visit our Operating Room Protocols website.

Original article

Best Diet To Control Cholesterol

We know using diet to control cholesterol plays a big role in managing levels successfully... now here's news on just what you need to be eating.

Cholesterol lowering choices such as soy, nuts and plant-based options might be better at bringing down cholesterol than the traditional low fat eating plan.

This comes from a brand new study that found that those suffering from high cholesterol and followed what's been termed the portfolio diet (a selection of foods that lower cholesterol) brought down their bad cholesterol (low density lipoprotein or LDL) by almost 13% after 6 months of sticking to the diet. This compares to a 3% drop in LDL for those who stuck to a diet that was low in saturated fats.

We know that as those cholesterol numbers go up, so does the risk of dangerous disease, especially heart disease. Experts used to think that most of us couldn't alter our cholesterol numbers with diet alone, but that belief is changing quickly.

When it comes to the portfolio diet, experts suggest you think of the eating plan not as a "diet" but rather more like an investment in cholesterol lowering foods. Just like you wouldn't put all your savings in one stock, don't bet your health on a single healthy food - choose lots of good for you options.

The researchers took a look at the portfolio diet and compared it to the traditional low fat eating plan in 351 subjects who had high cholesterol.

The participants were split into three groups, the first got two sessions of counseling on the portfolio diet, a second group had a more intensive 7 sessions of counseling, and the third followed the more common low fat diet.

Both the regular and intensive counseled portfolio diet groups saw a drop in their LDL cholesterol of almost 13%, as compared to a mere 3% reduction for those subjects following a low fat diet.

Since heart disease is such a well-known killer, experts believe that many people can benefit by adopting this eating plan.

If you're being urged to start on a statin drug by your doctor, it may be even more important for you to give this eating plan a try first - giving you a chance to avoid a prescription medication (and it's side effects) and work with nature to help the body stay well. Have the discussion with your doctor to see what best suits your needs.

Research has shown that adding plant-based foods to the diet can give you very nearly the same drop in bad cholesterol, as you'd achieve with a prescription medicine.

What's also interesting is the three monthly counseling session was almost as effective as going every month for counseling. The fact that the results came after so few sessions is surprising... and encouraging.

So just what is the portfolio diet?

It's an eating plan made up of four kinds of foods that have been recognized by the Food and Drug Administration as having an ability to bring down cholesterol levels. The four are...

1. Soy protein - substitute meat for soy based protein... try soy burgers, hot dogs or cold 'meats'. Soy milk and soy beans (edamame) are other good choices.

2. Sticky fiber - oats, barley or psyllium husks, three servings per day, or choose veggies like eggplant (aubergine) and okra.

3. Plant sterol esters - instead of butter or margarine, use plant-based margarine. Brands in the U.S. are Benecol and Take Control. You can also get these nutrients in capsules as a dietary supplement

4. Nuts - tree nuts like almonds or walnuts, even peanuts, are also part of the plan. Just a small handful a day will do.

Moving forward, researchers will need to see if the cholesterol drops are maintained after the six-month mark. It will also be important to see if people can stick with the plan... keep their motivation up... over the long term.

The positive thing about using the portfolio diet as a way of controlling cholesterol is that it focuses on bringing things into the diet, not removing things. This may just be why dietitians see this way of eating as more easily accepted.

FREE Bonus Secret Health Reports - For a limited time you can grab 5 FREE essential health reports from the Daily Health Bulletin. Click through now to discover more on using diet to control cholesterol levels.

Original article

3 Symptoms That May Mean Clogged Arteries

Most of this is coming from experience. Not my own, but of someone I know. Finding the clogged arteries and dealing with them saved their lives, as the problem was found before it could cause major damage.

Burning Sensation: He'd been on a hike. It was a hot day, and he'd been running. Suddenly, there was a burning sensation near the center of his chest. It felt exactly like a sore throat from breathing too hard with an open mouth. It didn't go away, but it was the first symptom of what turned out to be clogged arteries.

Out of Breath: Walking from his car to his desk at work was an ordeal. He'd have to stop and catch his breath. He'd never had anything like that happen before. He found it difficult to walk up and down stairs. He'd have to sit on the edge of the bed and catch his breath before he could get to sleep. It was beginning to be frightening.

Fatigue: Mind numbing fatigue. Concentrating was hard. Sleep was hard...he wasn't sleepy, just exhausted. He would be too tired to watch television in the evening. Even eating seemed like a chore.

So, I would imagine you'd like to know the rest of the story, and there is one. While he wasn't inclined to go to the doctor, he went. The family doctor couldn't find anything wrong, but he has a family history of serious heart disease. For that reason, he was sent to a cardiologist.

The cardiologist couldn't find anything. However, there was that family history, and those three major symptoms. It was enough to have him scheduled for an angiogram. If you are unfamiliar with this test, they inject dye into your blood, then they run a camera from the groin up to the heart to check the coronary arteries.

Three were blocked. One 90%, one 96% and one about 88%. The cause of the burning pain was the one artery not clogged at all. It was carrying the load, and it hurt.

One angioplasty and three stents later, he was released from the hospital. Now he watches what he eats, exercises regularly and keeps alert for symptoms of further problems. So does everyone else in the family.

Usually, clogged arteries don't make themselves known until after something dire has occurred. We were very lucky. His heart was (and is) perfectly healthy. Now we just have to keep him that way.

Original article

The Importance of Knowing the History of Heart Disease and the Signs of Heart Disease

It is undeniable that heart disease is the leading cause of most countries in the world especially in the United States, Canada, England and Wales. In the United States, statistics say that about 25% of all the deaths are caused by heart diseases. This should then alarm everyone to take care of their heart. One way of doing that is to know the history of heart disease including the different signs of heart disease.

Heart disease is a general term that is used for the disorders that affect the heart. There are several types of heart disorders which include cardiomyopathy, cardiovascular disease, heart failure, ischemic, coronary, hypertensive, and valvular heart disease. History taking is very important for health care professionals especially when you are suffering from a heart disorder. They need to know the history of a heart disorder that you have for the proper diagnosis and especially for the treatment methods that need to be carried out. When you go to your doctor and you are being asked a lot of questions about the history of heart disorder, you have to patient and answer truthfully since the information they are asking for are vital.

There are different signs of heart disorders for the different types but there are common warning signs that you need to be aware of. The most common manifestation is chest pain or chest discomfort. There a lot of conditions that can cause chest pain but it should never be ignored. Chest pain is actually a term is used to describe discomforts such as pressure, pain, choking, numbness or squeezing that is felt at the chest and neck area, upper abdominal area including the head, the jaw and the arms. This can last for a few seconds to several days and it can be rare or frequent.

One of the common signs of heart disorder is palpitation. This refers to the awareness of the heartbeat, and most of you would have probably experienced it already. This is often described as a skip in the heartbeat wherein there is a pause that is followed by an unusually strong heartbeat. It can also be described as rapid or irregular heartbeats. This is a common sign of cardiac arrhythmia wherein the heart has abnormal rhythms. Another common manifestation is dizziness or light-headedness. This is of course indicative of several other disorders such as anemia, dehydration, diabetes and a lot more but it can also be a sign of heart disease. It should be properly evaluated by a doctor to learn the underlying cause.

Fatigue and shortness of breath are also common signs of heart disorder. Fatigue happens when you are always tired and unable to do your usual daily activities. This is often accompanied by somnolence or sleepiness at daytime. Although these can be caused by other disorders, proper evaluation is necessary since it can be a sign of heart failure. Meanwhile, shortness of breath is a common sign of respiratory disorders but is also common in heart disorders. This usually happens at night, during exertion and when lying flat on bed.

When you experience any of these signs of heart disease, you should go to your doctor immediately and have yourself checked. Remember to be cooperative when the history of heart disease is being asked so that you will be given the proper treatments.

For more information on Different Types of Diseases, Symptoms and Diagnoses, Please visit: History of Heart Disease and Signs of Heart Disease.

Original article