One of the first heart disease facts you should be aware of is that, according to the British Heart Foundation, it is responsible for more than 88,000 UK deaths annually and rising.
You should also know that the risk of you being part of this statistic increase as you get older, whilst your lifestyle choices can also damage your healthy heart chances. If you have poor diet, smoke, drink alcohol excessively or are overweight then you are more likely to become a victim of heart disease.
CAUSES OF HEART DISEASE
Heart disease is caused by blockages in the arteries that provide oxygen and essential nutrition to your heart. A collection of fatty deposits within the artery wall (atherosclerosis) reduces the width of the arteries, making it harder for blood to pump through the heart thus depriving oxygen and nutrition.
As the condition develops fatty build up of cholesterol, cell waste and other substances on the inside walls develop raised patches called 'plaques'. This covering blocks much needed nutrients from being absorbed by the artery walls, reducing elasticity. The result of this is a rise in blood pressure and possible development of blood clots, usually leading to a heart attack.
HEART DISEASE SYMPTOMS
Although not necessarily an indication of Coronary Heart Disease, there are some symptoms that may be a sign of developing problems. An example of this is being unusually out of breath when either doing light work or resting, or breathlessness that comes on suddenly. Other symptoms to watch for include heart palpitations (where your heart rate suddenly increases), fainting, fluid retention, a bluish tinge to fingernails or lips and unusual tiredness.
In the event of such symptoms appearing you should consult your doctor as soon as possible, though those people with high risk factors should do so even more urgently. This particularly applies to those who are overweight, drink heavily, smoke, don't exercise or eat a poor diet.
HEART ATTACK SYMPTOMS
The onset of a heart attack will normally include symptoms such as sweating, light-headedness, nausea, breathlessness, a feeling of heaviness or pain in the chest extending into the arms, a stomach ache or heartburn similar to indigestion.
MAINTAINING A HEALTHY HEART
Heart disease is not something that can be cured but health can be maintained by managing the risks. By taking steps to promote healthy cholesterol balance and blood pressure levels you can work towards maintaining healthy cardio function.
The biggest and easiest risk factors to control are lifestyle choices, especially for smokers. If you are overweight then it s necessary to diet, if you smoke or drink too much then you need to address this as soon as possible.
Ensuring your body acquires the right nutrition can also support a healthy heart. A high fibre diet that includes sufficient fruit and vegetables is important. In order to help keep cholesterol levels healthy, food should only be cooked in unsaturated fats and added salt should be kept to a minimum. Foods high in saturated fats should also be avoided.
Due to lifestyle factors many of us don't acquire the nutrition we need to maintain optimum health. In such instances you may find it beneficial to supplement your diet with vitamins known to help support cardiovascular health.
Omega 3 Fatty Acids - such as fish oils, flaxseed oil or superba krill oil. Omega 3's have been shown to be one of the most important nutrients to maintain heart health due to their anti-inflammatory properties.
Psyllium Husks - Psyllium is high in fibre and can help to reduce LDL (bad) cholesterol. There is also evidence to suggest it supports production of HDL (good) cholesterol.
Green Tea Extract - a potent anti-oxidant that has been shown to reduce LDL cholesterol by 16%, supporting healthy cholesterol balance.
Co-Enzyme Q10 - CoQ10 is essential for energy production and helping maintain cardiovascular health. It is a natural enzyme in the body that depletes as we get older and is difficult to attain through natural diet. Coenzyme Q10 supplements are a MUST for anyone on statins!
Magnesium - research has shown that Magnesium is one of the most important minerals in the body. Magnesium is important to support healthy function of all major organs, especially the heart. Magnesium helps to maintain a regular and healthy heart rhythm whilst promoting normal blood pressure.
Artichoke Leaf Extract - has been shown by a study at the University of Reading to help support healthy cholesterol balance. It is also rich in flavanoids which help to maintain cardiovascular health.
CONCLUSION
Of all the heart disease facts, knowing your personal risk to heart disease and how to manage it is what is most important. Heart disease is one of the biggest killers though many instances could be avoided with simple lifestyle changes. Combine a healthy diet with regular exercise to help maintain healthy cholesterol and blood pressure. There are also many natural supplements to help ensure your body attains the nutrition it requires to maintain heart health. Reduce your risk factors further by avoiding cigarettes, excess drinking and weight gain.
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