Category Archives: Heart Health

Women who develop high blood pressure during pregnancy that continues into postpartum have been found to be at an increased risk of developing chronic hypertension. This new information comes from a study presented at the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine’s (SMFM) annual meeting. Blood pressure that remains elevated over time is known as chronic hypertension. This ...click here to read more

A newly released scientific statement from the American Heart Association is highlighting the relationship between mental health and heart disease. Published in the journal Circulation, the statement helps physicians summarize ways to improve psychological health for people with, and at risk for, heart disease. Previous research has demonstrated that negative psychological factors, personality traits, and ...click here to read more

If you’re looking for an easy way to cut cholesterol and reduce your risk for heart disease, I have four words for you: plant sterols and stanols. These compounds have unique cholesterol-lowering abilities and are found in a host of plant-based foods, including nuts, fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes, seeds, and more. They are even added ...click here to read more

Nothing beats the feeling of getting a great deal. And for many, a great deal means “more.” It’s a win. The reaction is entirely natural, but it’s also very short-sighted, especially when it comes to blood pressure and heart health. Think about your favorite restaurant. Aside from the food, what draws you there? One factor ...click here to read more

The risk of atrial fibrillation could be reduced by cutting out alcohol consumption. This is according to new research published in the European Heartbeat Journal, which found evidence to support the idea that just one alcoholic drink a day was linked to a 16% increased risk of atrial fibrillation. It has been well documented that ...click here to read more

You’ve heard of hypertension and its multiple dangers. It’s a significant risk factor for heart disease, and uncontrolled high blood pressure (the condition that “hypertension” describes) can boost the risk of heart attack, stroke, dementia, and more. But is all hypertension created equal? Can you control it? And what happens if you do? There are ...click here to read more

Those looking to lower their blood pressure may find that stretching is more beneficial than walking. A new study from the University of Saskatchewan (USask) has found that stretching is superior to brisk walking for reducing blood pressure. According to new figures from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly half of all ...click here to read more

The advice you’ve heard the most, or for the longest time, isn’t necessarily the best, especially if you’re talking about heart health. The importance of a low-fat diet to prevent heart disease was reiterated for decades. The American Heart Association (AHA), federal dietary guidelines, and other organizations and experts suggested cutting fat would improve heart ...click here to read more

Most Americans lack adequate knowledge about their cholesterol. Terms like “good” and “bad” cholesterol are thrown around a lot, but things can get confusing. One thing people do know is that keeping cholesterol in check is an important component of overall health, and specifically heart health. High cholesterol can make it difficult for blood to ...click here to read more

A new study from the University of Oxford and University College London shows that a healthy heart throughout life could reduce the risk of dementia in older age. The study found that by targeting arterial stiffening earlier in a person’s lifespan, the onset of dementia could be reduced. Researchers analyzed data from 542 older adults ...click here to read more

According to a new study from the American Academy of Neurology, high blood pressure during pregnancy may lead to memory decline later in life. Researchers have found that women who have pre-eclampsia and high blood pressure tend to have lower scores on memory and thinking skills tests through the years following pregnancy. The study included ...click here to read more

Mindfulness meditation may help ease stress and promote a healthier heart. But it’s not always easy to use. Stopping everything you’re doing and sitting in silence is a learned skill. I’m sure you can relate. It’s easy for your mind to start racing once you’re alone with your thoughts. Sitting in a comfortable, quiet space ...click here to read more

Patients who have psoriasis may be at an increased risk for metabolic syndrome (MetSyn), leading to a higher cardiovascular risk. This new information comes from a study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. For the study, researchers from the National Institutes of Health in Bethesda, Maryland, and colleagues examined the impact ...click here to read more

Anyone who has experienced heart failure should be getting regular daily exercise. The heart is the body’s most important muscle, and like all others, it needs exercise, especially when it’s damaged. Some people believe that if they have experienced heart failure, exercise may make it worse. But this could not be farther from the truth. ...click here to read more