Cardiovascular diseases are directly related to lifestyle: A high-fat, low-fiber diet, insufficient exercise, emotional stress, smoking, excessive alcohol intake, and obesity are all primary risk factors. Although cardiovascular diseases are epidemic, they can be prevented and often reversed with noninvasive natural methods of treatment. Chiropractic Care Nutrition and Supplements Heart disease has been undeniably linked to a diet high in fats. Saturated fats, such as those in red meat, butter, full-fat dairy products, chocolate, fried foods, and processed foods made with palm kernel oil and coconut oil, increase levels of harmful low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol in the bloodstream. Hydrogenated fats such as margarine and vegetable shortening not only raise levels of LDL, but decrease levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, commonly regarded as "good" cholesterol. And polyunsaturated fats decrease levels of both LDL and HDL. The healthiest oils for the heart are monounsaturated fats such as olive oil and canola oil, both of which promote healthy cholesterol levels. Omega-3 essential fatty acids, found in fatty fish such as salmon, trout, and mackerel, as well as flaxseed oil, are especially helpful for the cardiovascular system. They reduce the tendency of the blood to clot, decrease the stickiness of blood platelets, raise HDL levels, and lower levels of triglycerides, another harmful blood fat. Cholesterol is deposited only on artery walls that have been damaged, and free radicals seem to be the primary culprits in causing artery damage. To neutralize free radicals, eat plenty of foods rich in antioxidants, such as fresh vegetables and fruits. Garlic and onions are particularly helpful for the cardiovascular system; they lower blood cholesterol levels, normalize blood pressure, and decrease the "stickiness" of blood cells which helps to reduce plaque buildup in the arteries. Fresh fruits and vegetables, along with whole grains and beans, are also good sources of water-soluble fiber, which helps to lower LDL, and increase HDL. Fiber supplements such as psyllium, pectin, and guar gum can also be used, one teaspoon in a large glass of water one to three times daily. Avoid sugar, which increases the level of triglycerides in the bloodstream. And avoid caffeine, tobacco, and excessive amounts of alcohol, all of which increase blood pressure and stress the cardiovascular system. Supplements that help maintain a healthy cardiovascular system include: Herbal Remedies The following herbs can help maintain a healthy cardiovascular system: Homeopathic Remedies Consult an experienced practitioner for specific recommendations. Essential Oils To promote relaxation, which relieves stress on the cardiovascular system, use any of the following essential oils in baths, massages, or as an inhalant: Powered by ProfessionalPlanets.com™
Cardiovascular disease-including atherosclerosis, angina pectoris, heart attacks, and heart failure-is responsible for e than half of ail deaths in the United States. Atherosclerosis, the most common type, is characterized by fatty deposits in the arteries that restrict blood flow. Painful attacks of angina pectoris occur when the heart does not receive enough blood, and are usually brought on by exercise, emotional stress, or even exposure to cold temperatures. When the blood supply to some part of the heart is abruptly cut off, often because of a dot in a narrowed coronary artery, the result is a heart attack. Congestive heart failure occurs when the heart does not pump efficiently, causing blood to back up into the veins leading to the heart and symptoms such as fluid retention and shortness of breath.
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