Heart Health Archive

People with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are especially vulnerable to cardiovascular problems, including a 40% increased risk of heart attack. The amygdala, a brain structure involved in processing anxiety, fear, and stress, is overactive in people with PTSD. But these people also have decreased activity in the ventromedial prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for regulating emotions and dampening the fear response. This brain activity imbalance triggers chronic activation of the body's "fight-or-flight" response. The resulting physiological changes appear to underlie the development of atherosclerosis.

New research has found that Americans are now dying from heart failure at a higher rate than 25 years ago, making prevention more important than ever. The best strategy to lower one's risk from heart failure is to address its top underlying contributors: high blood pressure, abnormal blood lipid levels, and weight gain. Addressing these risk factors can also protect against developing coronary artery disease and diabetes, two of the main medical conditions that cause heart failure.

People with hypertension who monitor their blood pressure at home may be able to successfully self-titrate their blood pressure medications, a 2024 study suggests. First, they need to know their target blood pressure. Readings that remain above goal requires consultation with their doctor to create a plan for better BP control, such as specific steps for medication self-titration.

High levels of lipoprotein(a), or Lp(a)-a variant of LDL (bad) cholesterol- may triple the risk of a heart attack, even among healthy people with no other known risks for heart disease.

Compared with white rice, brown rice contains much higher amounts of fiber, certain B vitamins, magnesium, potassium, and iron. Research suggests that swapping white rice for brown rice may improve blood sugar levels and help with weight control.

Dried fruits such as raisins, dates, and figs are good sources of potassium, fiber, and other nutrients. A serving size of these calorie-dense treats is just a quarter-cup.

Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) is a condition characterized by lightheadedness or dizziness when standing and a racing heart. The underlying cause is not known, although it sometimes follows bedrest after injury or illness. Recently, POTS has been diagnosed in some people who have had COVID-19.

Most of us don't think twice about standing up, but for people affected by postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS), standing can provoke lightheadedness and a racing heartbeat. While some people with POTS will require medications, most will improve with some specific dietary and behavioral changes.