heart disease

According to a study led by Dr. Susan Lakoski of the University of Vermont, men who are physically active can protect themselves from cancer even more than 20 years after fitness. The study consisted of more than 17,000 men who took fitness tests. The study found that men who were considered fit at age 50 are less likely to suffer from heart disease and cancer later in life. The ASCO president, Dr. Sandra Swain said, “this important study establishes cardiorespiratory fitness as an independent and strong predictor of cancer risk and prognosis in men.” Experts suggest that the study’s findings may be relevant to women as well, but more information is needed. More here Read more »

Health experts are now suggesting that an ultra-low intake of salt could harm your health. Many individuals at high risk of heart disease have been instructed by their health care providers to lower their intake of sodium to federal guidelines, approximately 1,500 milligrams a day. Studies now show that extreme reduction may actually increase chances of developing heart problems. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention stated that more research needs to be conducted to come to an absolute conclusion. The Center for Science in the Public Interest’s said, “the bottom line for consumers is still: cut back on sodium.” More here Read more »

Many people know that fish is part of a healthy diet as it is full of valuable nutrients and protein. Experts have advised their patients to consume a large amount of fish to reduce heart problem risks. The way fish is cooked is a very important key to heart health. A study involving 85,000 post-menopausal women showed that women who consume five or more servings of baked or broiled fish a week for ten years lowered their chances of developing heart disease by 30%. However, eating one serving of fried fish has opposite effects, raising heart problem risks by 48%. Dark fish has also been found to decrease the chances of developing heart disease due to the high levels of omega-3 fatty acids. Read more »

A diet with healthy amounts of fiber has many benefits such as lowering cholesterol, reducing risk of heart disease, some cancers and diabetes, lowering blood sugar levels and aiding with weight loss. Fiber also helps prevent diverticulitis, a common disease of the large intestine. Individuals who do not consume enough fiber in their diets have a much higher risk of suffering from diverticulitis. Experts suggest the best ways to prevent the disease are by drinking large amounts of water and to increase the fiber intake in one’s diet. Women should take in 25-30 grams of fiber each day while men should eat 35 grams daily. Foods high in fiber include carrots, pears, apples, artichokes, broccoli and kiwi. Read more »