Atherosclerosis update: Prevention, type 2 diabetes, high-density lipoprotein, ischemic colitis

Increased thyroid hormone levels may be tied to atherosclerosisNearly 4.6 million American suffer from atherosclerosis, a condition that that leads to the hardening and narrowing of the arteries. We rely on our arteries to supply oxygen-rich blood to vital organs like our heart, and if this blood supply becomes compromised from atherosclerosis, you can suffer from poor circulation or even a heart attack. We at Bel Marra want to give our readers the best defense in terms of atherosclerosis prevention, so we have compiled a list of our best articles on the subject. You will find information on atherosclerosis and its relation to type 2 diabetes, high-density lipoproteins, and ischemic colitis. By knowing more about this insidious disease you can be confident you have the tool to prevent it.

Increased thyroid hormone levels may be tied to atherosclerosis

The thyroid is an important gland in our body that helps regulate many bodily processes, from our metabolism to protein synthesis. However, according to a new study, middle-aged individuals, as well as the elderly with elevated levels of thyroid hormone, may be at risk for developing hardened blood vessels (atherosclerosis) due to plaque buildup, subsequently increasing their risk for heart disease and stroke.

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Atherosclerosis is a disease where plaque builds up inside the arteries: the vessel that carries oxygen-rich blood to your heart and other organs. Plaques are usually made up of fat, cholesterol, calcium, and other substances found in the blood, and over time, its accumulation can lead to blood vessel hardening and narrowing. This is a big problem, as it limits the flow of oxygen-rich blood throughout the body, leading to heart attacks, strokes, and even sudden death. Continue reading…

Atherosclerosis preventionAtherosclerosis prevention: natural home remedies, diet, and exercise

Atherosclerosis is the condition in which the arteries become hardened, preventing a healthy flow of oxygenated blood. This process is common in aging, as plaques can build up causing arteries to become stiff. Plaque buildup also makes the arteries narrow, this way limiting the blood flow as well.

Atherosclerosis is a dangerous condition because it increases the risk of a heart attack, stroke, and peripheral artery disease. Although atherosclerosis is often associated with age, it actually occurs much earlier than you may think. This condition can begin as early as your 20s, and by 30s these changes start surfacing. Although routine checks may come back normal, after the age of 40 issues like cholesterol become evident. For men, signs of atherosclerosis can be seen as early as the age of 45, and for women, it’s around the age of 55.

Let’s take a look at some preventative measures you can take in order to reduce your risk of atherosclerosis and the associated complications. Continue reading…

Type 2 diabetes with low testosteroneType 2 diabetes with low testosterone raises atherosclerosis risk in men

Type 2 diabetes with low testosterone raises atherosclerosis risk in men. Atherosclerosis is a condition in which plaques build up against the lining of the arteries causing stiffness, which can contribute to cardiovascular disease.

Study author Dr. Javier Mauricio Farias said, “Our study indicates a strong association between low testosterone concentration and the severity of atherosclerotic plaques as well as other key atherosclerotic markers in middle-aged men with type 2 diabetes. The results of our study advance our understanding of the interplay between low testosterone and cardiovascular disease in patients with diabetes.”

The study looked at 115 men with type 2 diabetes and analyzed their testosterone levels and key atherosclerosis markers. The participants were below the age of 70 with no prior history of cardiovascular disease. Testosterone levels were measured in the participants’ blood and half of them were found to have low levels of testosterone. Continue reading…

High-density lipoprotein (HDL), good cholesterol protects against heart disease and atherosclerosisHigh-density lipoprotein (HDL), good cholesterol protects against heart disease and atherosclerosis

High cholesterol is well-known as a significant risk for heart disease. New research shows keeping cholesterol in a healthy range and boosting good cholesterol will help fight inflammation and thereby reduce joint pain and stiffness. Could get you out walking and resuming activities you really enjoy!
Let’s take a look at cholesterol’s healthy range: high levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) “good” cholesterol and low levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. The HDL cholesterol plays a protective role against cardiovascular disease caused by atherosclerosis, the narrowing arteries because of plaque buildup.

Up until now, the way in which HDL cholesterol played this protective role was unknown. Investigators from Germany’s University of Bonn, and an international research team, aimed to determine how HDL affects inflammation in the body, in turn providing the protection against cardiovascular disease. Continue reading…

Atherosclerosis risk for ischemic colitisAtherosclerosis risk for ischemic colitis (inflammation of colon) and bowel disease

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Atherosclerosis raises the risk for ischemic colitis (inflammation of the colon) and bowel disease. Atherosclerosis is a condition where the lining of the arteries becomes thickened with plaque build-up. This can cause the arteries to narrow, thus reducing blood flow. Atherosclerosis is a large contributor to heart disease, heart attack, and stroke.

Ischemic colitis is when blood flow to the colon becomes reduced; therefore, atherosclerosis contributes to ischemic colitis by narrowing the arteries. This lack of blood flow to the colon limits the supply of oxygen for the cells in the digestive system.

Ischemic colitis can be misdiagnosed as other digestive issues and can heal on its own. Ischemic colitis can turn into an infection, so medication is required to prevent this. If damage is done to the colon, surgery may be required. Continue reading…


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