Heart Health Archive

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Read More about Cold-water dips: Healthy or risky?
Cold-water dips: Healthy or risky?

Cold-water dips: Healthy or risky?

Swimming (or just dunking) in cold water is generally safe. But people with heart rhythm disorders should be cautious about this practice. The evidence for the health benefits for cold-water immersion (which allegedly include fat loss and reduced inflammation) is limited. Submerging the face in cold water triggers the diving reflex, which causes the heart to slow down and blood pressure to rise. This response, in addition to an adrenaline surge from cold water on the skin, may trigger an underlying arrhythmia.

Read More about Normal weight, but big belly? That raises heart disease risk
Normal weight, but big belly? That raises heart disease risk

Normal weight, but big belly? That raises heart disease risk
Excess fat in the belly brings a greater risk for developing heart disease, even if one has a normal body weight, according to an American Heart Association statement published online April 22, 2021, by Circulation.
Read More about Keep heart disease at bay with a salad a day?
Keep heart disease at bay with a salad a day?

Keep heart disease at bay with a salad a day?
Eating one cup of leafy green vegetables a day may help lower heart disease risk. Leafy greens are rich in nitrates, which the body converts to nitric oxide (a compound that helps reduce blood pressure).
Read More about Screening for atrial fibrillation: An update
Screening for atrial fibrillation: An update

Screening for atrial fibrillation: An update
Atrial fibrillation (afib), an often-silent heart rhythm disorder, increases the risk of stroke. Early detection may enable people to start taking anti-clotting drugs to prevent a stroke. Current afib screening methods include asking people about afib symptoms and taking an electrocardiogram during routine check-ups. Wearable devices such as smart watches and fitness trackers can detect afib, but they aren’t yet accurate enough to be used for widespread screening.
Read More about Why people faint: From common to very rare causes
Why people faint: From common to very rare causes

Why people faint: From common to very rare causes
All episodes of fainting results from insufficient blood flow to the brain. But there are many underlying causes for that diminished blood flow, ranging from common, usually harmless issues to rare, potentially serious problems. Common causes include vasovagal syncope and orthostatic hypotension; rare causes include carotid sinus hypersensitivity and rotational vertebral artery syndrome.
Read More about Fruit of the month: Melons
Fruit of the month: Melons

Fruit of the month: Melons
Melons have a high water content and are fairly low in calories, making them a good choice for people watching their weight. Watermelon contains lycopene and citrulline, two nutrients thought to benefit heart health.
Read More about Spice up your cooking to cut down on salt
Spice up your cooking to cut down on salt

Spice up your cooking to cut down on salt
Enhancing food with different flavors from spices, herbs, aromatic roots, citrus juice and zest, and vinegars can help people eat less sodium, a main component of salt. Fresh herbs such as basil, cilantro, and mint can deliver flavor, fragrance, and color to foods; so can spice blends such as garam masala, za’atar, and Chinese five-spice blend. Other flavor-boosting, salt-free strategies include choosing the freshest possible foods and using appropriate cooking techniques. Reducing dietary sodium helps lower blood pressure, which reduces cardiovascular disease risk.
Read More about Healthy brain, healthier heart?
Healthy brain, healthier heart?

Healthy brain, healthier heart?

Researchers have increasingly found links between poor mental health and higher heart disease risk. Stress, childhood trauma, and other issues may affect behavior and trigger physical changes that elevate heart risk. Taking steps to support mental health can potentially improve heart health as well.

Read More about Will new guidelines for heart failure affect you?
Will new guidelines for heart failure affect you?

Will new guidelines for heart failure affect you?
Heart failure can limit a person's ability to accomplish daily tasks, affect quality of life, and even shorten lives. Updated guidelines for one form of heart failure are available to help clinicians and people living with this condition navigate complex therapy options.
Read More about Living with an implantable defibrillator
Living with an implantable defibrillator

Living with an implantable defibrillator

After receiving an implanted cardiac defibrillator, people are often anxious about receiving a shock from the device. But relaxation therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and support groups may help people cope with this anxiety.

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