Heart health and what you can do.
Medical science hasn’t addressed the root causes. Why? Largely because most researchers and clinicians have normalized this issue that the human body has its flaws, the thinking goes, so it’s a good thing we have access to this “heroic” care to save us from our inherent brokenness.
There is good news however.
Scientific research since the 1990s has proven that heart disease is largely preventable by adopting a few simple, enjoyable, healthy behaviors.
You can take care of your heart and dramatically reduce your risk of developing this devastating disease.
What you eat
How you manage stress
How much you move, and
How much love and support you have
Instead of only addressing the effects of Cardiovascular Disease, We need to focus on the root cause.
Just as when you’re growing a seedling, a healthy plant requires taking a deeper look at what’s happening underneath the soil — and nurturing it.
There are 4 Pillars to heart health
Nutrition:
Certain classes of foods harm the cardiovascular system, while others promote its health and vitality.
What dietary pattern promotes a healthy heart ?
Eat mostly plants in their natural form. This means more local organic fruits and vegetables, legumes, whole grains, and nuts and seeds. These foods are rich in antioxidants, fiber, vitamins, and minerals that can prevent heart disease.
Reduce or eliminate animal products, especially red and processed meat products. Replace these with plant proteins,
Limit refined carbohydrates, including sugar, white flour, and white rice. They lack nutritional value, are known to spike blood sugar, and can lead to chronic inflammation.
Limit high-fat foods, and include small amounts of nuts.
Reduce sodium, instead flavoring meals with herbs and spices that don’t raise blood pressure.
If you drink caffeine, stick to a maximum of 2 cups per day of green tea or black coffee. These are rich in antioxidants and other compounds that have protective benefits for your heart.
Depending on your overall dietary pattern, you may want to consider supplementing with B12, Omega-3 fats, vitamin C, and turmeric.
Stress Management
Take Yoga, Get a massage, explore nature, listen to music or play music, show affection.
Fitness
Move your body regularly with walking, running, cross training etc..
Love and Support
Modern science confirms what many of us learned in kindergarten: Having friends is good for you. Not having them, on the other hand, can be hazardous to your health.
Researchers at Brigham Young University concluded that a lack of good friends and connections to others is as damaging to your health as being obese, or as smoking 15 cigarettes per day.
Our heart is working hard, day and night, to deliver oxygen and other nutrients to every cell in your body. It will most likely beat about two billion times before it’s through.
Show your heart some love by choosing nutrient dense foods, nourishing a strong support system, and practicing a lifestyle that minimizes unnecessary stress and enhances your physical fitness. By taking these steps, you can dramatically add years to your life.