Heart Health Archive

U.S. guidelines define normal blood pressure as less than 120/80 millimeters of mercury (mm Hg). Studies have shown that the lower a person's blood pressure, the greater the heart health benefits. However, the "best" blood pressure number for someone depends on several factors, such as the person's health condition, lifestyle, family history, and personal goals. Depending on an individual's situation, a higher-than-normal number may be adequate.

Winter soups containing beans, seasonal vegetables (such as squash, greens, and root vegetables), and whole grains are rich in heart-protecting nutrients. All the ingredients include lots of fiber, which helps lower cholesterol and is filling without adding too many calories. Homemade soups can be made with far less sodium (which raises blood pressure) than the amount found in many store-bought and restaurant soups.

A 2024 study found that the accuracy of a blood pressure reading is compromised if a person's arm isn't in a certain position. For the most effective measurement, the person should be seated, feet flat on the floor, with the arm supported so the elbow is at heart level.

A 2024 study suggested that women with perinatal depression, which can occur during or just after pregnancy, have significantly higher risks of developing later cardiovascular disease.

Snow shoveling can be risky for people with heart disease because (1) the activity requires a lot of physical effort, and (2) cold temperatures constrict arteries. Both factors can raise the risk of a heart attack in people with narrowed heart arteries.

Eating cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and cauliflower may reduce blood pressure more than eating squash and root veggies.

People can learn how to give chest compressions-a key aspect of cardiopulmonary resuscitation, or CPR-by watching a 90-second online video. CPR keeps blood flowing to the brain and vital organs during a cardiac arrest. There are various ways to practice chest compressions on a mannequin, including at an in-person class or at one of 30 kiosks (including six at major airports) located nationwide.

All medicines have potential side effects. Usually, side effects are more bothersome than serious -- though a few are dangerous. If you experience a side effect, what are your options?

People seeking motivation to be more active and connected to their community might consider signing up for a Turkey Trot, a race or "fun run" held on Thanksgiving morning. Most events are 5 kilometers (3.1 miles), and participants can walk all or part of the course. Many feature ways to support a local community charity.

About 98 million Americans have prediabetes, in which the average amount of sugar (glucose) in the blood is high but not high enough to be diagnosed as diabetes. While people with prediabetes want to avoid getting diabetes, prediabetes can be dangerous on its own, as it increases the risk for cardiovascular disease, chronic kidney disease, and fatty liver disease. Controlling blood pressure, lowering LDL (bad) cholesterol, and managing glucose levels with weight loss, exercise, and diet offers protection against diabetes and these conditions.