Archive for the ‘Heart Tips’ Category
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How Water Can Affect Cholesterol And Heart?
Water Secrets Exposed
You will learn the best kept secrets in America… “The drinking water worries…”
So… what kind water is best for your heart? Animal studies have suggested that Chlorine and Fluoride ingestion alters the bodies handling of Cholesterol and Fats. Fluoride is classified at once as a DRUG and as a POISON.
In our polluted environment, water is not the answer for our mineral supply so, I sincerely hope you’ll take this opportunity to allow me to introduce you to this astonishing special report about water safety, life-preserving and life-enhancing facts.
This is an invaluable source of information that will help you ensure that your future will be as healthy and plaque free as possible.
What I propose to do for you involves no risk whatsoever on your part. So, please read carefully and remember… There is a serious lag between when people consume toxic chemicals in their drinking water and when they might ultimately develop symptoms.
City DRINKING WATER IS NOT SAFE
You can induce Longevity and good health by drinking quality distilled water…
SELF-MADE PURE WATER VERSUS BOTTLED WATER AND VERSUS FILTERED WATER
According to the bottled water report by the U.S. Environmental Agency… “plastic bottles arrive at the plant in cardboard cartons and are shipped without caps… thus the interiors are exposed to airborne contamination and the presence of foreign matter. Glass bottles are usually washed with a hot caustic solution but… the temperature and strength of the solution is below the safety level.”
Are you drinking bottled water?
Are you drinking filtered water?We are over 70% Pure Distilled Water!
I will give you the opportunity to explode your knowledge about drinking water so you will make wise choices when shopping, cooking and dinning out. I provide you with a tool and it is up to you what to do with it.
Sceptical? I don’t blame you. Right now we ALL are exposed to petrifying chemicals in drinking water. The only difference is the amount depending on the area where you live.
How Water can affect Cholesterol and Heart?
LEAD
Alarming, 20% the nation’s lead exposure is due to drinking water.
3-4 million children nationwide have unacceptable lead level in their blood. “One in 6 people drink water with an excessive amount of lead, a heavy metal that impairs children IQ and attention span.” What if your house was build prior to 1988?
FLUORIDE
Fluoride is an industrial waste product! Due to fluoride exposure, fluoride concentrations are noticeable in:
Brain
Kidney
Liver
Lung
Spleen
Pancreas
Thyroid
Fluoride doesn’t reduce tooth decay!It is a well-known fact for decades! Anyone who drinks fluoridated water can be exposed to develop osteoporosis and bone fragility.
FACT
Fluoride is classified at once as a DRUG and as a POISON!
According to Dean Burk, Chief Chemist Emeritus, U.S. National Cancer Institute: “In point of fact, fluoride causes more human cancer death, and causes it faster, than any other chemical.”
“This means that 30,000 to 50,000 deaths each year from various cause may now be attributable to fluoridation. This total includes the 10,000 to 20,000 deaths attributable to fluoride induced cancer each year.”
Fluoride ATTACKS ALL VITAL ORGANS!
The DEVASTATING conclusion by Dr. J. Yiamouyiannis
“Everyone being exposed to the level of fluoride found in the drinking water, or who, in any other way increase their fluoride intake, is being chronically poisoned.
Recurrent ‘upset stomachs, arthritis, skin problems, weakness, etc. are diseases which people begin to accept as normal. As these diseases become more severe, they are attributed to old age.”
The good news is… most of fluoride you ingest can be removed from your diet.
CHLORINATION IN DRINKING WATER IS DEADLY
Immune system is damaged as a result of fluoridation and chlorinating. According to a June Report by the General Accounting Office, and… according to Food Science, from August 15, 1992 water utilities often fail to notify customers when temporary problems arise in the quality of drinking water.
CHEMICALS in drinking water are menacing your health.
It is never too late to start drink quality pure water. I guarantee you will feel the difference. There are shocking illnesses resulting from the nitrates, heavy metals and pesticides that became the pollutant of your drinking water.Know this: Food and Drug Administration regulations apply only to bottled water, which is transported across state lines. Today, legally accepted source of bottled water is wells, springs and public tap water.
Are you sure the water you are drinking is safe?
Water is the biggest carrier of diseases. There is no need for you to go on and cripple your health any longer…
Bo Jeune-FilleAbout the Author
Freelance writer from Europe: Bo Jeune-Fille. Background: Alternative Medicine and Biochemistry. For more tips on Self-Healing visit: http://www.best-lowering-cholesterol-links.com Ask@best-lowering-cholesterol-links.com
Written By: Bo Jeune-Fille
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Ironman Training With A Heart Monitor
A heart-rate monitor can be an excellent training tool for a first time Ironman Triathlon hopeful. In a nutsell, following a heart-rate monitor program teaches your body to burn fat as opposed to carbs. It teaches to be aerobic as opposed to anearobic.
AEROBIC-Workouts where you are burning fat as your source of energy.
ANEAROBIC-Workouts where you burn carbs as your source of energy.
For an event like the Ironman Triathlon, where endurance is paramount, teaching your body to burn fat is ideal for a very simple reason.
Your body stores a lot more fat then it does carbs. So during your Ironman Triathlon, if you burn fat and not carbs, you don’t use up your glycogen stores too quickly. Glycogen, simply put, is stored carbs. Trust me on this–In a physically demanding event like the Ironman Triathlon, once you use up your glycogen stores, you will hit the proverbial wall with the force of a mac truck. Your pace will slow big time and even walking will extremely uncomfortable.
A heart monitor will guide you in staying in your fat burning range. There is a reliable formula for finding your maximum aerobic heart rate. The idea is to NOT go over this heart rate in the early months of your training. If you are in poor shape to start with, you will be training at a very slow pace at first. If the program is done properly, you will find that eventually you will be able to train at a faster pace and still stay below your max. Also, by staying out of the anearobic zone, your recoveries from training will be much faster and less painful. Better still, your chances of being injured will be diminished.
I have trained with a heart rate monitor for years and have had great success. I would highly recommend giving it a try.
If you decide to, here is how to figure out your max. aerobic heart rate:
The key number is 180. Subtract your age(no cheating).
When you begin, if your physical fitness really sucks(and don’t worry, we’ll change that)take off ten more beats.
If you have trained a few days a week for several years, don’t change the number.
If you have trained like an all-star for a few years and are in really good shape to start, add five beats.
If you are almost set to retire(over 60), add five beats.
If you are still in your teens, add five beats.
Now that you have that magic number. Your maximum aerobic heart rate, strap on that monitor and away you go. I would suggest using the monitor in the run and bike portions of your Ironman Triathlon training. It doesn’t work that well in the pool, because you basically have to stop to check your monior. Its pretty difficult to track while you’re swimming.
Use it on all your runs for sure and always start out running slowly for 10 or 15 minutes, then let your heart-rate get to within 20-25 beats below your max. If you are in really poor shape, it will seem very slow to you. THAT’S OK! Be patient. It will improve. Over the weeks you will teach your body to burn fat and like magic you will start running faster without going over your max. Here is how to do a test so you can actually see your progress. Do your initial test the first few days you start heart-rate monitor training.
Find somewhere(a track etc.)where you can run an exact measured mile. Warm up for 15 minutes and stay 20-25 beats below your max. After your warm-up, pick up speed so that when you hit the start line for your mile, you are right on your maximum aerobic heart-rate.
Begin your stop watch when you hit the start line. Stay in a very tight range for the whole mile. For example, if your max. rate is 130, stay between 125 and 135 through the whole test. The idea is to average 130–your max. rate. Stop your timer right at the end of the mile. Record that time.
In one month–not before–do the exact test again. If you have trained on a regular basis (4-5 times a week)and used the monitor properly you WILL see an improvement.
FOR EXAMPLE: If your first test resulted in a mile time of 9 min 40 seconds and your second test had a time of 9 min 15 seconds, then CONGATULATIONS! You are teaching your body to burn fat. YOU ARE BECOMING AN AEROBIC MACHINE! YOU ARE BECOMING FITTER! You are training at the very same heart-rate as when you started, but are able run faster without any added stress.
Do the test every month(not every week). Your mile time will continue to drop and your fitness level will improve as well if you train on a reguar basis. After 4 months or so when you have developed a sound aerobic base, you will be able to start adding some anearobic work-outs. This is an indication that you come a long way. GOOD FOR YOU!
Should you decide to use a heart-rate monitor in your training, I feel sure you will improve your chances of finishing your very first Ironman Triathlon.
About the Author:
My name is Ray and I’ve competed in 14 ironman races. Most of my training is done with the aid of a heart monitor. I’ve created a site called “Ironstruck” that has many other training and racing tips that the beginner triathlete/novice ironman may find helpful.. http://triathlon-ironman-myfirstironman-ironstruck.com
Written By: Ray Fauteux
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Vioxx Heart Attack and Stroke FAQs
What are the grounds for Vioxx stroke or Celebrex litigation?
Vioxx and Celebrex were billed as safe alternatives for people who suffer from chronic pain. In reality, they are expensive drugs that for most people provide no better treatment than older, less expensive medications. Far from having no side effects, these drugs share many of the same side effects of older NSAID medications. Despite claims to the contrary, new research has shown that patients who use these drugs are at risk of Vioxx heart attacks, stroke problems, liver damage, kidney damage, stomach ulcers, and other serious complications.
What has been done so far with regard to Vioxx heart attack and Celebrex litigation?
One class action suit has already been filed. Others are pending.
What options do I have if Ive been affected by Vioxx or Celebrex?
You may qualify for future class action litigation against these drug makers. You may also have grounds for an individual suit for specific damages.
What are the treatments for the disorders caused by Vioxx and Celebrex?
Check with your doctor first. You may be able to use another pain relief medication. Older NSAIDs such as ibuprofen and naproxen work well for some patients. Other patients may not be able to use these medications.
What are the dangers of Vioxx and Celebrex? Vioxx:Heart Attacks
Stomach ulcers and intestinal bleeding are the most common dangers. There is also a risk of Vioxx heart attack and stroke.
Other side effects of these medications include:
Serious stomach problems, such as stomach and intestinal bleeding, can occur with or without warning symptoms. These problems, if severe, could lead to hospitalization or death. Although this happens rarely, you should watch for signs that you may have these serious side effects and tell your doctor immediately.
Serious allergic reactions including swelling of face, lips, tongue, and/or throat which may cause difficulty breathing or swallowing occur rarely but may require treatment right away.
Serious kidney problems occur rarely, including acute kidney failure and worsening of chronic kidney failure.
Severe liver problems occur rarely in patients taking NSAIDs. Tell your doctor if you develop symptoms of liver problems. These include nausea, tiredness, itching, tenderness in the right upper abdomen, and flu-like symptoms.More common, non-life threatening, side effects include:
Upper and/or lower respiratory infection and/or inflammation
Headache
Dizziness
Diarrhea
Nausea and/or vomiting
Heartburn, stomach pain, and upset
Swelling of the legs and/or feet
High blood pressure
Back pain
Tiredness
Urinary tract infection.Which products contain Vioxx and Celebrex?
There are no generic equivalents for these medications. They are only sold as Vioxx and Celebrex.
Are there any safer alternatives to Vioxx and Celebrex?
Older medications like ibuprofen, naproxen, or even just an aspirin have been used as alternatives for Vioxx and Celebrex.
What could have been done to avoid the current Vioxx Heart Attack situation?
Several things:Adequate and more accurate testing prior to FDA approval could have revealed the same risks, like Vioxx Heart Attacks, that became known after the products were already on the market.
More extensive research could have been done prior to the approval and release of these drugs.
Advertising campaigns could have included more accurate information about the true effectiveness of these products.
A concerted effort was made to switch patients from less expensive prescriptions to these newer prescriptions which were much more expensive.
What are Vioxx and Celebrex and what are they used for?
Vioxx and Celebrex are used to treat the chronic pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, acute short-term pain, and for the treatment of severe menstrual pain. Although the two medications are slightly different in their chemical composition, Vioxx and Celebrex are both classified as COX-2 inhibitors and belong to a larger group of drugs knows as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs. Other NSAIDs include older medications like ibuprofen and naproxen.
Serious problems, like Vioxx Heart Attacks, have been associated with the long-term use of NSAIDs. Problems include bleeding stomach ulcers, intestinal bleeding, Vioxx heart attack problems, and damage to the liver and kidneys. These complications can occur with or without warning symptoms. These problems, if severe, could lead to hospitalization or death.
About the Author
Michael Monheit, Esquire is the managing attorney for Monheit Law. The practice is focuses on plaintiff personal injury cases and Vioxx Lawyers info can be found at Vioxx Lawyer – Monheit Law
Written By: Michael Monheit, Esquire, Monheit Law, PC
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Heart Disease and Homocysteine
Are you aware that one of the most important indicators of heart disease is homocysteine? -1
A naturally occurring amino acid in your body, homocysteine can cause inflammation and damage to your blood vessels when levels become elevated because of a functional deficiency of B vitamins and Folic Acid. -2
Every week we read or hear about heart disease being one of the biggest health concerns facing America today. Most people have experienced this problem because they know a friend or family member with one of these health problems.
In many cases, they may be facing one of these conditions themselves.
Would it be fair to say you really want to take control of and improve your health?
All it takes is a special blood test (just like a test for cholesterol levels), to measure the level of homocysteine in your blood. It is NOT a routine test so do yourself a favor and ask your Doctor for the test.
Also this test may not be covered by your insurance however, because it is so important to your health – get it anyway.
So what is the normal range for homo- cysteine levels? Your level should be under 8, below 7 is even better for your health.
How you can naturally and easily keep your homocysteine levels in the normal range? One can accomplish this with a few supplements and better eating habits for life.
And guess what? You are going to feel better and gain more energy in the process!
The first thing you may want to consider is taking a pharmaceutical grade natural multi-vitamin which contains B vitamins (B2,B6 and B12) and Folic acid 2-3 times a day. Why should I take a vitamin 2-3 times a day you ask? Because the body can only absorb so much nutrition at any one time.
Most quality vitamins will only contain about as much of a certain vitamin and mineral which can be absorbed by your body at one time.
Because the body needs nutrition throughout the day, this is one of the best ways to feed your body what it needs.
Coenzyme Q10 or CoQ10. Research has shown and proven this to be effective in fighting heart disease: -3
Slows the effects of LDL cholesterol to fight heart disease.
Inhibits formation of free radicals
Replaces natural CoQ10 levels depleted by statin drugs and poor diet.
Next, here are some great natural food sources to keep your homocysteine levels in the normal range.
Vegetable proteins do not raise levels like some meat proteins can so eat plenty of leafy dark green vegetables.
Legumes (beans) of all kinds which are a great source of protein.
Eggs are a great source of protein (the only protein with all 20 amino acids in the correct ratios for your body) and also a great source of Folic Acid, which helps to control your level of homocysteine.
Great sources of Soy like tofu, soy beverages, soy nuts.
Nuts – in particular – Brazil, walnuts, almonds, pecans and hazelnuts. As well as seeds like sunflower seeds and flaxseed, which is also high in Folic Acid.
High quality grass fed organic beef, wild game, wild Alaskan salmon and sardines.
Poor quality sources of meat protein can actually raise your level of homocysteine.
So as you have learned, you can naturally and easily help your body avoid one of the factors which leads to heart disease with these proven, simple and low cost methods.
And guess what? Just imagine how you are going to feel better and gain more energy in the process in a short period of time!
1- Physicians Health Study, Milosevic-Tosic M. ,et al. Hyperhomocysteinemia a risk factor for development of occlusive vascular diseases Med pregl. 2002 Sep-Oct;55(9-10):385-91
2- Hyman, Mark M.D., Liponis, Mark M.D. Ultra-Prevention, The 6-Week Plan that will Make you healthy for life, New York, Scribner, 2003, pgs 43, 50.
3- http://www.smartbodyz.com/CoQ10Text.htm
3- Stephen T. Sinatra, M.D., The CoEnzyme Q10 Phenomenon, McGraw-Hill/Contemporary Books,1998
2004 © by Lee Cummings
Please feel free to use this article in your newsletter or on your website(with resource box included and use an active link).
This article may not be used in any e-mail promotions that do not conform with federal law.
If you use this article, please send a brief message to let me know where it appeared: leeman@lc-nutrition.com
Lee Cummings has been studying natural proven nutrition for 9 years. Because he has shown people how to get the results they want with natural proven nutrition, he has helped dozens of people feel better and gain energy over the last 4 years. Lee is the publisher of the monthly LC Nutrition newsletter. For more information on how proven nutrition will help you, visit http://www.LC-Nutrition.com
leeman@lc-nutrition.com
Written By: Lee Cummings
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A Look at Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Heart Health
According to research data published by the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, individuals that include regular daily intake of Omega 3 can reduce the risk of heart attack (coronary thrombosis) by up to seventy percent. Such encouraging news has generated a good deal of interest in Omega 3 of late.
What is Omega 3?
Omega 3 is, in fact, a polyunsaturated fatty acid which, as it passes through the limentary canal (digestive tract through the human body), breaks down existing cholesterol and deposits a minutely thin barrier to prevent its reformation. Omega 3 works to fight again the principal cholesterol culprit that causes clotting of the blood. These clots then block blood vessels causing heart attacks or, if they reach the brain, strokes.
Omega 3 is most commonly associated with the oils found in fish. Best known sources are mackerel, trout and salmon although the oils can be extracted from white fish; and the liver of the Cod is particularly rich as well.
The American Heart Association recommends a daily intake of 1000 mg. of Omega-3 for measurable health benefits in cardiovascular care. There are various ways of including Omega 3s in your diet so you need not worry if you are not a big fan of fish.
Sources of Omega-3s
The most obvious method, eating suitable fish regularly, isnt practical for everybody, as again not everyone enjoys fish, some people are even allergic to it and, of course, vegetarians and vegans dont eat fish. Fortunately there are a wide range of supplements on the market for those people.
The most common form of supplement is the capsule formulated from concentrated oils derived from those fish that have the high Omega 3 levels. Generally, the tablet will contain something around fifty percent from that source (fish) with the balance made up of other sources of fatty acids.
Omega 3 fatty acids are not restricted to fish oils – they can also be found in a number of plant extracts as well. The best source of Omega-3 is alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) which includes flaxseed (linseed) oil, rapeseed (canola) oil, chia seeds, walnuts and walnut oil, the Mediterranean plant, purslane, grass-reared meat, and dark green leafy vegetables. These items are widely found in health food stores and in natural health markets.
The good news of Omega 3 health benefits goes global
Omega 3s can also be found in a wide range of other foods including vegetables and processed foods; however, the levels are negligible and provide no significant health benefits. Vegetarian Omega-3 supplements are available, usually as flaxseed (linseed) oil.
EPA and DHA Omega 3 are found almost exclusively in aquatic plants and animals. They are synthesized by phytoplankton, which are consumed by fish, mollusks and crustaceans and thus concentrated in the aquatic food chain.
Alternative sources of Omega-3 ALA and Omega-3 EPA and DHA are being studied for viability. ALA from perilla is already available in some countries and krill, shrimp-like creatures abundant in the Antarctic Ocean, are being targeted by a Canadian company as a future Omega-3 source. Krill oil contains 25% Omega-3 EPA and DHA. Genetic modification is also being explored, with one experiment inserting genes which will produce long-chain Omega-3 polyunsaturates into existing oilseed varieties. Another uses gene transfer technology to directly convert Omega-6 polyunsaturates to their Omega-3 counterparts.
As the health reputation of the Omega-3s grows, food manufacturers have explored the opportunity of fortifying everyday foods with Omega-3s. Omega-3 eggs are increasingly available; for example, bread fortified with 13mg of Omega-3 DHA per slice is now available in New Zealand and Australia. Malaysia has a cracker fortified with vitamins, minerals and both Omega-3 and Omega-6 EFAs and a similarly fortified margarine serves as a fine accompaniment.
In Sweden, a low fat liver pate is enriched with Omega-3, iron and vitamins. The Spanish can buy fruit juices fortified with milk, fiber, vitamins and Omega-3, and probiotic meal replacement bars, soups and milkshakes with Omega-3s. Finns market a blackcurrant juice with added Omega-6 and Omega-3 as ALA. This list is by no means comprehensive, particularly as it does not include the increasing number of infant milks, foods and supplements with added Omega-3 DHA.
As the advantages of regular intake of Omega 3 become more accepted in North America, the food processing and pharmaceutical industries will, no doubt, put more effort and funding into making these various supplements more readily available. The benefits of Omega 3 will continue to grow in importance as the population ages and looks for ways to maintain healthy and active lifestyles. Currently, Omega 3s are easy enough to buy from online companies and specialized pharmacies but it surely wont be long before Americans will be able to choose the supplement that suits them best from the shelves of local supermarkets and convenience stores.
About the Author
Adam Short is freelance writer and creator of http://www.omega-3-info.com – a site providing the latest news and information on essential fatty acids.
Written By: Adam Short
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Exercise and Heart Health a Life Giving Marriage
Most people get their health out of a bottle these days, be it a bottle of vitamins or pharmaceuticals. However, with a little effort and dedication you really can get a hold on your life, turn it round and live it to the full!
If you’ve been diagnosed with heart disease or are at risk of developing heart disease regular exercise is essential for the health of your heart, body and mind. In fact, aerobic exercise and heart health really do go hand in hand.
With busy lifestyles and lack of time, regular use of home equipment, such as a treadmill, an elliptical trainer, a stationary cycle, a stair-climber, etc. is becoming increasingly popular. These items are now precision health giving apparatus that really can help get you in shape. Gyms are also getting more and more members, but often people slack off because of time restraints. If this is you, working out at home may be the answer for you
However, before jumping into your gym shoes talk to your doctor about your desires and objectives. Your doctor may be able to give you some useful insights you didnt consider as well as coaching from a medical point of view. If your doctor gives you the OK, try to work some exercise into your daily routine. The American Heart Association (AHA) suggests, for example, that patients start by walking five minutes a day, then increasing gradually to 30 minutes over several weeks. Walking is a wonderful way to start, as it is low impact, you need no special equipment, and it costs nothing. Swimming may be another good choice. This type of exercise is called aerobic training that involves large muscle groups, such as the legs, and keeps your heart rate pumping for a set amount of time. Unless there are deformities of the heart muscle, aerobics and heart health are often found together and not only does the heart benefit, there are other advantages too.
Aerobic Exercising and Heart Health
As you can see, take it slow initially; its really not necessary to sign up at the local gym or aerobic class. Although, after some time you might want to do just that.
Depending on where you live walking or swimming may not be an option. In such cases, you may like to consider a piece of home aerobic equipment such as a treadmill, stationary cycle or elliptical trainer. However, before purchasing a home trainer consider whether you will really use it. If the answer is yes, best get the best home aerobic equipment you can afford. Your heart will thank you.
Lack of exercise and heart disease
The American Heart Association has now added “lack of exercise” to the list of major risk factors for heart disease. The other risk factors are smoking, high blood pressure, and high blood cholesterol.
Exercise not only helps fight heart disease and gets you in shape, but if you live a sedentary lifestyle, a regular exercise routine can also:
help control high blood pressure,
reduce the risks of type II diabetes,
help prevent osteoporosis,
improve your general wellbeing and help fight depression, anxiety and stress,
greatly help to lose weight
Those are just some of the benefits of doing regular exercise. I wanted to make a list of some of the disadvantages, but I cant think of any!
In an ideal world, in order to get the best results possible you should exercise three to five times a week for 30-60 minutes within your target heart rate. But even normal day to day events, such as taking the stairs instead of the lift, walking to work, walking the dog, or gardening can help. You can do many things to increase physical activity during the day; just try thinking about what you can do. The benefits are well worth the effort.
Another thing that has proven to be effective is cross training. In cross training you participate in 2 or more different types of exercise during the week, for instance: Monday walking, Tuesday treadmill, Wednesday swimming, Thursday elliptical training, etc. You may also like to insert some strengthening exercises too, such as weight lifting.
Not only will cross training help to tone your whole body, it will help stop boredom setting in. Many people stop training not because they dont have the time (thats the reason they dont start), but because they get bored. If you can arrange a routine where you do something different each day, it is going to be difficult to get bored.
So, talk with your doctor and start now! Once you notice the result, nothing will stop you. Youll loose weight, be more toned and fit, will have a sharper outlook on life and, oh yes I almost forgot, youll live longer!
About The Author
Nicholas Webb, of AllAbout Heart Disease, speaks and writes with a passion telling it is as it is; helping others to live life to the full. This article is extracted from his newsletter The Webs Heart.
To subscribe, or read other articles visit The Webs Heart To learn more about how to beat heart disease and get into shape visit: www.AllAbout-Heart-Disease.com.
Written By: Nicholas Webb
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Tips to prevent heart disease and lead a healthy life
One of the greatest ailments that endanger your healthy life is undoubtedly the heart disease. As per statistics provided by the American Heart Association, 62 million Americans suffer from some form of cardio-vascular diseases like heart attack, high blood pressure and congestive heart failure. Close to, a million such cases per year turn fatal. Heart disease is the number one killer in the U.S. and about 1/3 of the deaths from heart disease could be prevented by a way of a better dietary habit.
Without analyzing the cause, you cannot prevent the effect. One of the prime catalysts of heart disease is the free radicals. Contrary to the belief, margarine, which you may think is preventing heart disease (thanks to widespread advertisements), is much more harmful than butter. The process of margarine preparation involves heating oils to very high temperatures. Such a high temperature transforms the oils into free radicals.
One of the best foods you can have is the egg.
The egg yolk contains about 250 mg of cysteine, a variety of amino acid. This cysteine is instrumental in the elimination of free radicals.
Another common cause of heart diseases is cholesterol.
However, the interesting fact is that bulk of the cholesterol is synthesized within the body itself and not taken as part of the diet. Cholesterol is a soft buttery substance. It joins hands with calcium and cause hardening of the arteries that results in heart disease.
We consciously avoid some fat-rich food, like butter in order to avoid heart disease. However, this notion is grossly incorrect. The real culprit for poor heart health is sugar rich processed food. For instance, let us observe the dietary habits of the Eskimos. They consume large quantities of blubber – a highly fat-rich food. Yet, the instance of heart disease in them is minimal, unless fizzy drinks and French fries influence their food habits.
Excess weight begets heart disease.
Therefore, you need to check your diet. However, you should remember that being overweight is the problem, not eating fats. Some essential fats like Omega 3 fish oil has healing power.
Surprisingly 150 years ago, heart diseases were almost unheard of. Some vested interests have made heart disease proliferate. The people, who manufacture drugs for heart disease, stand to gain enormously when a detected patient has to consume drugs for the rest of his/her life. What is worse, your doctor is also befooled by the drug manufacturers in the name of educating them.
Prescribing drugs is rooted to faulty medical education of the doctors. It is a pity that less than 2% time of a Harvard Medical school student is spent in learning preventive medicine and a minor slice is devoted to nutrition.
One of the well-known surgeries in this heart disease field is the bypass surgery. Contrary to what you know, bypass surgeries fail to lengthen your life span than those who go without it. Unfortunately, 2% to 4% of the cases of bypass surgery turn fatal on the operation table itself.
Respectable medical journals have started stating the truth – bypass surgery does not result in increase of life expectancy. Bypass surgeries do not attack the cause of the problem, merely attempting to repair damage. It leaves chances for falling pray to heart disease again. Only about 2 inches of the blood vessels are repaired without addressing the problem of hardening of the arteries.
Much to your horror, another bigger fraud exists than the bypass surgery. It is the heart drugs. Cholesterol drugs reduce the cholesterol to some extent, but it never prolongs your life. The most important adage in this context is prevention is better than cure. In order to prevent heart disease, be vigilant on your diet. Avoid fizzy drinks and calorie-rich fried food (but that doesnt mean fat).
Consumption of cholesterol drugs in order to prevent heart disease has ugly side effects. Instead of prolonging life, these drugs aid in shortening your life span. A study in Finland on heart disease shows that the probability of people suffering a heart attack is 46% higher for those who are regular consumers of cholesterol drugs.
The mantra is to go for a heart-friendly diet, prevent being obese and exercise regularly. Lend your heart a helping hand in combating heart disease.
For more detailed information on preventing heart disease and recommended products visit:
http://www.heart-healthy-diet.com
Mike has been helping people protect their health for several years – through exercise and nutrition. The heart and circulation system is the most important, and all good health programs need to start here. Let Mike guide you in getting started. http://www.heart-healthy-diet.com
Written By: Mike Spencer
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Viagra Is Good for the Heart
Copyright 2005 Daily News Central
Viagra (Sildenafil citrate), which millions of men take for erectile dysfunction (ED), reduces the effects of hormonal stress on the heart by half, according to a study published online in the journal Circulation.
Viagra causes genital blood vessels to expand, which helps in maintaining an erection. Recent research also has pointed to its potential usefulness in treating pulmonary hypertension. Prior to the latest findings by a team of Johns Hopkins researchers, it was thought to have little effect on the heart.
Viagra, or sildenafil, blunts the strengthened heart beat caused by chemically induced stress, according to study senior author and cardiologist David Kass, MD, a professor at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and its Heart Institute. It thereby lessens both the excess amount of blood and the force used to pump it to the body.
“Sildenafil effectively puts a ‘brake’ on chemical stimulation of the heart,” says Kass.
Prevents and Reverses Effects of High BP
These findings are believed to be the first confirmation in humans that Viagra has a direct effect on the heart. In earlier research, Kass and his team observed a similar effect in mice; Sildenafil blocked the short-term effects of hormonal stress in the heart.
Related studies by the group show that sildenafil also prevents and reverses the long-term effects of chronic high blood pressure on the heart.
Sildenafil reversed the negative effects on heart muscle weakened by heart failure and enlargement — a condition called hypertrophy — in mouse experiments Kass and his team carried out earlier this year. They reported their results in the journal Nature Medicine.
“But we had no firm evidence as to whether or how this therapy might work in the human heart,” says Kass. “Our latest research provides firm evidence this drug does indeed have an important impact on the heart.”
Increased Heartbeat Was Slowed
Thirty-five healthy men and women, with an average age of 30 and no previous signs of coronary artery disease, participated in the six-month Johns Hopkins study. Within a three-hour timeframe, each participant received two separate injections of dobutamine (5 micrograms per kilogram for five minutes), a synthetic, adrenaline-like chemical that increases heart rate and pumping strength.
Between injections, study participants were assigned randomly to a group that was treated with sildenafil (100 milligrams taken orally) or to a group given a sugar pill placebo. All participants then were given the second dobutamine injection to see what effects sildenafil or placebo had on the heart.
Measurements of heart function were made before and after each injection. These included blood pressure readings, electrocardiograms and echocardiograms. Blood samples confirmed relatively equal levels of sildenafil and other enzymes.
Each dobutamine injection stimulated heart function, increasing heart rate and the force of each heartbeat used to pump blood throughout the body, results showed.
“This stimulation is similar to the way the nervous system normally increases heart function when triggered by emotional or exercise stress, or in diseases such as heart failure,” notes Kass.
After the first injection of dobutamine, the force of heart contraction increased by 150 percent in both groups. In the placebo group, this increase repeated itself after the second injection. However, in the group treated with sildenafil, the increased heartbeat was slowed by 50 percent, resulting in a smaller increase in blood flow and blood pressure generated by the heart in response to chemical stimulation.
Between injections, heart function was not altered in the sildenafil group, demonstrating the absence of adverse side effects on the resting human heart.
Stops PDE5A Action
“Knowing more about the effects of sildenafil on heart function will allow for safer evaluation of its use as a treatment for heart problems,” says Kass.
“Our results set the stage for further studies of sildenafil’s immediate and long-term effects on the heart and its ability to modify other neurohormonal and stress stimuli, including adrenaline and hypertension,” he adds.
While the precise biological actions of sildenafil in the heart are not fully understood, the drug is known to work by stopping the action of an enzyme, called phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5A), Kass explains. This enzyme is involved in the breakdown of a key molecule, cyclic GMP, which helps control stresses and limit overgrowth in the heart.
PDE5A is also the biological pathway that sildenafil blocks in the penis to prevent the relaxation of blood vessels and thus maintain erections.
About the Author
Rita Jenkins is a health journalist for Daily News Central, an online publication that delivers breaking news and reliable health information to consumers, healthcare providers and industry professionals: http://www.dailynewscentral.com
Written By: Rita Jenkins
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How To Enhance The Prevention of Heart Disease
Four Primary Reasons Why the “Mediterranean Diet” Promotes Heart Health
Introduction
The term “Mediterranean Diet,” while widely in use in the 21st century, actually is something of a misnomer. In reality, there is not a diet regimen that is common to all of the countries of the Mediterranean region. With that said, there is some commonality between what people of the different nations of the Mediterranean eat on a regular basis. Equally important, there are food and beverage items that are not often found in the diets of the peoples of the Mediterranean.
Statistically speaking, men and women who do live in the Mediterranean region experience a notably lower incidence of heart disease than do people in many other points around the globe. There is some consensus amongst physicians, medical researchers and nutrition experts that the diet of the Mediterranean region does play a role in reducing the rate and incidence of heart disease.
While the Mediterranean Diet may not be a letter perfect heart healthy regimen, it is a far superior dining plan than most other programs people have adopted in different places around the world. There are four primary reasons why the Mediterranean Diet is the type of diet regimen that promotes heart health.
Low in Saturated Fat
One of the primary reasons that the Mediterranean Diet promotes heart health is found in the fact that it is a diet that is low in saturated fat. The Mediterranean Diet is a diet that includes the consumption of healthy amounts of monounsaturated fat. The human body actually does require the intake of some fat on a daily basis. The most appropriate type of fat to consume is monounsaturated fat.
A significant number of people who are not paying particularly close attention to their eating habits can be found consuming significant amounts of saturated fat each and every day. Saturated fat raises “bad” blood cholesterol levels which is a precursor to heart disease and stroke.
Monounsaturated fat does not raise blood cholesterol levels. When eaten in moderation, monounsaturated fat provide the body with an element it does need for proper functioning and overall good health.
High in Fruits, Vegetables and Whole Grains
Another of the reasons that the Mediterranean Diet promotes heart health is the inclusion of significant amounts of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, red beans and nuts in daily dining routines. Multiple scientific studies that conducted on every continent demonstrated time and again that a diet that includes significant amounts of fresh fruits and vegetables together with whole grains, beans and low-fat nuts is a regimen that reduces the risk and incidence of heart disease.
Low in High Fat Dairy Products
While non-fat and low-fat dairy products can play a role in advancing a healthy diet, fatty dairy products can have an adverse effect on the heart, other organs and certain bodily functions over time. The Mediterranean Diet involves the use of only a limited amount of dairy products — including very few eggs. When it comes to the inclusion of dairy products, for the most part non-fat or very low fat products are utilized. Heavy creams are not common in the Mediterranean Diet.
Due to the fact that the Mediterranean Diet relies on non-fat and low-fat dairy products (in only limited amounts) and virtually no eggs (which are high in cholesterol), people who follow this diet scheme have been found to have a lower incidence of heart disease and related conditions.
Low in Red Meat
Numerous studies that have been conducted over the past thirty years have demonstrated that a diet high in the consumption of red meat can have a harmful impact on the heart. The Mediterranean Diet is very low in red meat. In fact, red meat rarely is included within a meal. If red meat is served, the portion provided is notable small.
The Mediterranean Diet favors lean fish and some other types of white meats, but again in small portions. The manner in which red meat is limited in the Mediterranean Diet, combined with other elements of the regime, leads experts in the field of health and nutrition to conclude that the diet plan promotes a healthy heart.
Conclusion
If you are concerned about developing a healthy lifestyle, including proper dining habits, adopting the fundamentals of the Mediterranean Diet would be a positive step in the correct direction. The elements of the Mediterranean Diet appear well suited to promoting heart health and an overall hale lifestyle.
About the author:
Site Owner & Publisher Ray Darken – You can gain much more detail from Ray’s sites along with other relevant information at http://www.safe-and-easy-weightloss.com or http://www.weightloss-diet-health-vitamins.com
Written By: Roy Barker
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Why Risk Your Heart For a Decaf?
Decaffeinated coffee could increase risk factors for cardiovascular disease.
A study showed that decaffeinated coffee increased LDL (“bad”) cholesterol. It may have done so by increasing levels of apolipoprotein B, which is associated with LDL cholesterol.
Measured for Many Factors
Almost 200 participants were divided into groups given either three to six cups of regular coffee each day, the same of decaf per day, or no coffee at all, for a period of three months. Then the levels of caffeine in their blood were measured, along with a number of other factors including blood pressure, heart rate, body mass index, triglycerides, HDL and LDL cholesterol, insulin, glucose, fat present in the blood stream, and apolipoprotein B.
Increase in LDL and Blood Fat
At the study’s end, the decaf group showed an 8 percent rise in fatty acids, and an 8 to 10 percent rise in LDL levels. Bloodstream fat also increased in the decaf group, by an average of 18 percent.
Different Beans
The difference could be caused by a difference in the types of beans used rather than the decaffeination process. Because decaffeination can strip the coffee of flavor, a flavorful bean called Robusta is often used to make it; regular coffee is usually made from the mellower Arabica beans.
Coffee drinkers in the United States consume an average of 3.1 cups of coffee a day.
Yahoo News November 16, 2005Forbes.com November 16, 2005
Dr. Mercola’s Comment:Earlier this month Iposted a blog item onhow soft drinks, but not coffee, elevate your blood pressure. But it seems coffee, or at least decaf, isn’t trouble-free after all.
Interestingly, the lead researcher used the term dose as an important consideration about drinking coffee, particularly because his study patients drank as much as six cups a day. Although coffee is certainly a better alternative than fruit juices or soft drinks, it’s not nearly as healthy for you as drinking pure water.
Drinking coffee may interfere with your body’s ability to keep homocysteine and cholesterol levels in check, most likely by inhibiting the action of the vitamins folate, B12 or B6.
Coffee has also been previously associated with an increased risk of stroke and rheumatoid arthritis. And studies have shown that caffeine in coffee can raise blood pressure and levels of stress hormones, and if consumed in large quantities it can lead to heart palpitations, jitters and nervousness.
It is also imperative that you avoid any coffee if you are pregnant.
So if you have the coffee habit it is time to consider stopping. However, please avoid the mistake that most people make when deciding to eliminate coffee from their diet. Caffeine is a drug and if you go off cold turkey you will needlessly suffer.
I recommend weaning yourself off coffee (or regular soda for similar reasons) by cutting down the amount you drink gradually over a period of days or even weeks. It’s important to drink plenty of water during the process in order to keep your body well hydrated.
While you’re doing that, here are some tips to reduce the chance of harmful effects until you can completely eliminate it:Use organic coffee. Coffee is a heavily sprayed crop, so drinking organic coffee might reduce or eliminate your exposure to toxic herbicides, pesticides and fertilizers. It will also help the people working in the coffee fields, as they will be exposed to fewer pesticides as well.
Try “Swiss Water Process” decaf. If you are going to drink decaffeinated coffee, be sure that it uses a non-chemical based method of decaffeination. The “Swiss Water Process” is a patented method and is the best choice. Most of the major brands are chemically decaffeinated, even if it says “naturally decaffeinated” right on the container. If you are unsure of the methods, contact the manufacturer.
Avoid sugar and milk. These are actually much worse for you than the coffee itself. Don’t compound the detrimental health effects by adding milk or sugar to your coffee.
Only use unbleached filters. If you use a “drip” coffee maker, be sure to use non-bleached filters. The bright white ones, which most people use, are chlorine bleached and some of this chlorine will be extracted from the filter during the brewing process.
About the author:
This article is reprinted from Mercola.com, the world’s #1 most visited and trusted natural/alternative health website. For a limited time only, you can take the FREE “Metabolic Type Test” to help you learn the right foods for your particular body type so you can achieve optimal fitness & health. Just go to http://www.mercola.com/forms/mt_test.htm right now to take this quick test!
Written By: Dr. Joseph Mercola
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