Tag Archives: High blood pressure

Heart Disease Risk Not Just for Seniors

WebJacquie Eubanks RN BSN

Those who typically believe that heart conditions are diseases of the aging population, may be surprised to learn that younger people aged 35-64 are putting themselves at risk of developing heart disease earlier in life. Lifestyle factors, such as smoking, sedentary behavior and unhealthy eating, contribute to the development of obesity and diabetes, as well as high blood pressure and cholesterol levels, all known risks for heart disease and stroke. Per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), half of all Americans have at least one of the top three risk factors for heart disease—high blood pressure, high cholesterol and a smoking habit. As the leading cause of death in the U.S., heart disease claims more lives than all forms of cancer combined.

Heart disease is a broad term used for a wide variety of symptoms and diseases related to the heart and blood vessels. These can include coronary artery disease or cardiovascular disease; heart rhythm disorders or arrhythmias; congenital heart defects; cardiomyopathy or weakened heart muscle; silent ischemia caused by reduced blood flow to the heart muscle; angina resulting in pain and discomfort caused by arterial spasms, insufficient flow of oxygen and nutrients or narrowing of the arteries; and atherosclerosis, the buildup of fats, cholesterol, calcium and other substances within artery walls, which can block or restrict blood flow.

High blood pressure: Currently, millions of Americans of all ages, including individuals in midlife have high blood pressure. Over time uncontrolled hypertension causes the coronary arteries to narrow and harden due to plaque buildup. This can increase the risk of clots that can block the flow of oxygen and nutrients and cause damage or death to the heart muscle, resulting in heart attack. Lifestyle changes that can help to lower and maintain healthy blood pressure levels include weight loss when needed, regular exercise, stress reduction and improved diet that limits sodium, restricts processed foods and increases whole food consumption, especially foods that contain potassium.

High cholesterol: Per the CDC, more than 100 million adults aged 20 and over have high cholesterol. Young adults with a family history of high cholesterol are mostly likely to develop this condition during their 20’s and 30’s. Startling statistics from 2014 show that more than seven percent, or one in five, U.S. children and teens have unhealthy cholesterol levels. High cholesterol levels in children and teens, linked to heredity, diet, obesity and sedentary behavior, generally follows into adulthood, increasing the risk of heart disease later in life. The initial approach to reducing high cholesterol in children involves lifestyle changes, including weight loss, improved diet and increased exercise.

Smoking: While most children and adolescents have yet to try smoking, the overwhelming majority of adult smokers in the U.S. began smoking before age 18. Per the American Lung Association, cigarette smoking causes detrimental harm and significant health problems among young people. Statistics show that most new smokers are children and teens. Each day approximately 2,500 children under 18 try their first cigarette and more than 400 will become regular daily smokers. Sadly, about half will ultimately die prematurely from a smoking-related disease. Smoking causes an instant and long-term rise in blood pressure and heart rate, reduces the flow of blood and oxygen to the heart, damages blood vessels and doubles the risk of stroke. As smoking is the single most preventable cause of early death, stopping smoking is key to the management of dangerous risks to heart heath. Quitting smoking will reduce the threat of heart disease and the risk for repeat heart attacks and cuts the risk of death by heart disease by half. Stopping is never easy. However, a balanced healthy diet, regular exercise to relieve stress , proper amounts of sleep, encouragement from friends and family, and participation in a support group can all help one break the habit and enjoy a healthier lifestyle at every stage of life.

Professional Supplement Center offers these and other high quality supplements in support of a healthy lifestyle:

Berberine BlendBerberine Blend by Professional Supplement Center®: Berberine Blend is formulated to provide support for overall cardiovascular wellness. Specific ingredients support healthy homocysteine levels, normal blood lipid regulation, free radical neutralization and the maintenance of healthy blood pressure and blood sugar levels already within the normal range. Non-GMO formulation.

Homocysteine FactorsHomocysteine Factors by Pure Encapsulations®: Homocysteine Factors is formulated with active B vitamins in support of the maintenance of healthy homocysteine metabolism. High homocysteine levels, a risk factor for cardiovascular problems, is associated with low levels of vitamins B6, B12 and folate. Gluten free, Non-GMO hypoallergenic formulation.

Smokers CleanseSmokers Cleanse by Renew Life®: This targeted, 3-part cleansing program is specifically  formulated with select herbs and natural ingredients to support lung and respiratory health. It may also help reduce the desire to smoke, soothe bronchial passages, and support a healthy stress response to improve overall wellbeing. Gluten and soy free formulation.

Ubiquinol-QH 200 mgUbiquinol QH 200 mg by Pure Encapsulations®: This active form of CoQ10 provides strong antioxidant protection and supports cellular energy metabolism and cardiovascular health. Ubiquinol supports healthy ejection fraction and mitral valve function, supporting overall physical activity and quality of life. Gluten free, Non-GMO hypoallergenic formulation.

Hawthorne Max-VHawthorne Max-V by Douglas Laboratories®: Used traditionally for centuries, hawthorne extract is now recognized for its cardioprotective benefits, which include support for healthy heart and circulatory function. Free of gluten, yeast, soy, dairy, corn, sodium, sugar, starch and artificial colors, flavors and preservatives. Vegan formulation.

ProOmega LDLPro Omega LDL by Nordic Naturals®: This product is formulated with bioavailable CoQ10, EPA, DHA and red yeast rice in support of nutritional maintenance for total cardiovascular health. Third party tested to be free of heavy metals and environmental toxins. Gluten, dairy and artificial color and flavor free. Non-GMO formulation.

References:
Heart Disease: It Can Happen at Any Age. https://www.cdc.gov/features/heartmonth/index.html
How High Blood Pressure Can Lead to a Heart Attack. https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/high-blood-pressure/health-threats-from-high-blood-pressure/how-high-blood-pressure-can-lead-to-a-heart-attack
10 ways to control high blood pressure without medication. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/high-blood-pressure/in-depth/high-blood-pressure/art-20046974
High Cholesterol in Children? It’s All Too Common. https://www.everydayhealth.com/high-cholesterol/symptoms/high-cholesterol-in-young-people/
Tobacco Use among Children and Teens. https://www.lung.org/stop-smoking/smoking-facts/tobacco-use-among-children.html
Smoking and Cardiovascular Disease. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/smoking-and-cardiovascular-disease

Inflammation Part I: Causes and Effects

inflamationBy Jacquie Eubanks BSN, RN

The word inflammation comes from the Latin “inflammo,” meaning “I set alight, I ignite.” Acute inflammation is a biological immune response to harmful stimuli such as pathogens, damaged cells, irritants or injuries.  It is the body’s attempt at self-protection and a basic survival instinct.  When something harmful or irritating affects a part of our body, the body will attempt to remove the stimuli and initiate the healing process.  Without acute inflammation, wounds and infections would never heal and survival would be compromised. 

The familiar signs of acute or normal inflammation are pain, redness, swelling, heat and loss of function.  These are signals that your immune system has been activated.  Inflammation actually begins when pro-inflammatory hormones send out a call for white blood cells to clear out an infection or damaged tissue.  Equally powerful anti-inflammatory compounds move in to begin the healing process once the threat is neutralized.  Acute inflammation that ebbs and flows when needed indicates a well-balanced immune system.  Acute inflammation has an immediate onset, is of short-lived duration and has a definitive resolution or outcome.  It’s when the symptoms of inflammation don’t recede that troubling chronic inflammation begins. This type of inflammation is a key cause or factor in almost all chronic degenerative and lifestyle-caused diseases. 

Chronic inflammation differs from acute inflammation in that it can involve persistent foreign bodies, a persistent infection, a non-degradable pathogen that can cause persistent inflammation, or an overactive immune system response.  These can kick the immune system into high gear lasting from several months or even years.  The outcomes of chronic inflammation can be the destruction of the tissue, thickening and scarring of connective tissue, and death of cells or tissues. 

Diseases and conditions associated with chronic inflammation include asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn’s disease and chronic hepatitis.  Chronic or long-term inflammation can result from:

  • Failure to eliminate whatever was causing the acute inflammation.
  • An autoimmune response where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue.
  • A chronic irritant of low intensity that persists.
  • Dysbiosis, an imbalance of bacteria or fungi in the gastrointestinal tract. 
  • Stress.  Constant psychological, emotional or physical stress raises cortisol levels, creating inflammation.
  • Environmental toxins.  Pollutants and toxic metals contribute to inflammation.
  • Diet and lifestyle.  Too much fat, sugar and processed foods, obesity, inactivity and poor sleep quality can all increase inflammation. 

Chronic internal inflammation can remain undetected as there are no visible symptoms such as pain and swelling.  Results of chronic inflammation may include:

Low grade inflammation is a factor in most health issues.  Studies show that the risk of heart disease and cancer are modifiable by our lifestyle choices which includes the foods we choose to eat each day. With every bite we take, we’re either balancing the pro- or anti-inflammatory compounds in the body, or tipping the scale to one end. 

Many common foods in the Standard North American Diet can cause or exacerbate inflammation in the body.   Foods known to cause inflammation include:

  • Fast foods.  Processed, packaged and prepared foods top the list of inflammatory foods due to harmful oils, sugar, artificial sweeteners, and food additives. 
  • Sugar.  Excessive sugar intake is linked to increased risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome. 
  • Common vegetable cooking oils.  Common vegetable cooking oils are very high in omega-6 fatty acids and dismally low in omega-3 fats.  A diet consisting of a highly imbalanced omega-6 to omega-3 ratio promotes inflammation and breeds inflammatory diseases like heart disease and cancer.
  • Trans fats.  Trans fats increase levels of bad cholesterol while lowering levels of good cholesterol.  They have also been found to promote inflammation, obesity and resistance to insulin, laying the groundwork for degenerative illnesses to take place.
  • Dairy products.  As much as 60% of the world’s population cannot digest milk.  Milk is also a common allergen that can trigger inflammatory responses, such as stomach distress, constipation, diarrhea, skin rashes, acne, hives and breathing difficulties in susceptible people.
  • Feedlot-raised meats.  Commercially produced meats are fed with grains like soy beans and corn, a diet that is high in inflammatory omega-6 fatty acids but low in anti-inflammatory omega-3 fats.
  • Processed meats.  Processed meat includes animal products that have been smoked, cured, salted or chemically preserved.  Compounds in meats can cause an immune response that may trigger a chronic low-grade inflammatory response which has been linked to cancer and heart disease. 
  • Alcohol.  Regular high consumption of alcohol has been known to cause irritation and inflammation of the esophagus, larynx and liver. Over time, the chronic inflammation promotes tumor growth and gives rise to cancer at the sites of repeated irritation.
  • Refined grains.  Refined grains are devoid of fiber and vitamins and full of empty calories.  Refined grains have a higher glycemic index than unprocessed whole grains.  Consistently consumed, they can hasten the onset of degenerative diseases such as cancer, coronary disease and diabetes. 
  • Artificial food additives.  Artificial food additives such as aspartame and monosodium glutamate can trigger inflammatory responses in people already suffering from inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis. 
  • Food allergies.  Repeated long-term exposure to foods that irritate can cause inflammation and lead to chronic disease.

It’s become increasingly clear that chronic inflammation is the root cause of many serious illnesses.  “Cooling the fires of hidden inflammation may be the most important thing you can do for your long-term health and well-being,” says Dr. Mark Hyman, editor in chief of Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine. 

Up next:  Part II: Reducing inflammation with supplements, diet and lifestyle changes.

How Colorful Is Your Diet?

HowColorfulIsYourDietBy Susan Brown

Highly pigmented fruits and vegetables contain phytonutrients.  Phytonutrients are natural biochemical components which work together with vitamins, minerals and fiber to promote good health.  Phytonutrients contain antioxidants that protect your cells from disease-causing free radicals.  Studies show that eight out of ten Americans fall short on their phytonutrient intake which means they face a nutrient deficit.  Those who eat generous amounts of a variety of fruits and vegetables as part of a healthy diet are more likely to have a reduced risk of developing chronic disease including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, stroke, and some types of cancer

When it comes to fruits and vegetables, a more colorful plate benefits your health and your waistline.  Adding 3 – 5 servings of fruits and vegetables to your daily meals or snacks increases nutrients and fiber essential to good health without adding a significant amount of calories and fat.  All produce forms count including fresh, frozen, canned, dried and 100% juice.  Frozen fruits and vegetables, frozen at their peak of ripeness, are just as nutritious as fresh.  To put a colorful diet in perspective, eat a rainbow of fruits and vegetables each day.  Variety is very important as each food brings its own health benefits to the table.  As a rule, the brighter the color of the food, the more concentrated its nutrition.  When choosing colorful foods, stick with whole foods and avoid foods that get their color artificially through processing and added dyes. 

Here are some very good reasons to add color to your diet along with just a sampling of food color choices: 

RED – Red fruits and vegetables contain lycopene, an effective and powerful antioxidant.  Lycopene belongs to the carotenoid family which includes beta-carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin.  Lycopene’s antioxidant actions help maintain the strength, thickness and fluidity of cell membranes, which are vital in the prevention of disease.  Lycopene aids in the prevention of plaque formation in the arteries, inhibits age-related macular degeneration and cataracts, prevents aging of the skin and is a natural internal sun protectant.  Strawberries contain folate which aids heart health and decreases the risk of certain birth defects.  Cherries are a great source of fiber, vitamin C and potassium, which help maintain blood pressure.  Cranberries contain proanthocyanidins that prevent bacteria from sticking to bladder and stomach walls reducing chance of illness.  Kidney beans contain B vitamins, which are key for neurological function.

  • Tomatoes, watermelon, red grapefruit, red peppers, beets, pomegranates, cherries, wild salmon, kidney beans, red apples, raspberries, strawberries and cranberries.

ORANGE – Orange fruits and vegetables contain an abundance of antioxidants, fiber and phytonutrients that are good for your skin, eye and heart health.  Foods rich in carotenoids have been shown to decrease the risk of various cancers including lung, colon, bladder, cervical, breast and skin cancers.  Beta-Carotene, a powerful antioxidant, can help delay cognitive aging and protect skin from sun damage.  Beta-carotene is a precursor for vitamin A which is important for night vision, neutralization of free radicals and the health of your immune system.  Orange foods are chock full of vitamin C which boosts the immune system, protects against cardiovascular disease and helps rebuild skin collagen.  Pumpkins contain zinc, a mineral essential for proper brain function, reproductive health and wound healing.  Sweet potatoes, carrots and citrus fruits are loaded with potassium which aids muscle and nerve function and helps maintain the proper electrolyte and acid-base balance in your body. 

  • Cantaloupe, peaches, oranges, tangerines, papaya, mangoes, pumpkin, sweet potatoes, orange peppers, and carrots.

YELLOW –  Yellow vegetables such as corn contain the antioxidants zeaxanthin and lutein which work together to block harmful rays that can cause eye damage over time.  Pineapple contains bromelain which aids digestion, absorption and elimination.  Yellow bell peppers are packed with vitamin C necessary to produce carnitine, a  compound in muscles that converts fat into energy.  Yellow fruits and vegetables reduce age-related macular degeneration, lower LDL cholesterol and blood pressure, promote collagen formation and healthy joints, encourage alkaline balance and work with magnesium and calcium to build healthy bones. 

  • Yellow peppers, lemons, yellow squash, garbanzo beans, butternut squash, apricots, pears,  nectarines, sweet corn, bananas and pineapple.

PURPLE/BLUE – Purple foods are colored by a pigment called anthocyanin, a strong and protective antioxidant which can help reduce the risk of cancer,  improve memory and assist with healthy aging.  Purple fruits and vegetables are also packed with flavonoids known to be one of the most powerful phytochemicals.  Flavonoids provide heart-healthy benefits to the cardiovascular system, lowering LDL cholesterol, raising HDL cholesterol, and improving memory storage.  Lavender is associated with increased blood circulation and is helpful in reducing insomnia and anxiety, as well as treating skin ailments such as psoriasis, acne, wrinkles, cuts and burns.  Purple basil, which has high doses of vitamin A, vitamin C and calcium,  is beneficial for the hair, skin and eyes. 

  • Berries, grapes, eggplant, plums, figs, raisins, purple basil, purple potatoes, lavender, and red wine (in moderation).

GREEN – Plant foods derive their green pigments from chlorophyll, a naturally occurring molecule.  Chlorophyll delivers a continuous energy transfusion into the bloodstream, replenishing and increasing red blood cells.  Chlorophyll is not only a powerful oxygenator, it strengthens our immune systems and enhances overall wellbeing.  Chlorophyll is known to improve the health of the circulatory, digestive, immune and detoxification systems of the body.  There are many delicious green foods all containing tremendous health benefits.  Green-hued foods contain EGCG, a potent antioxidant, plus lutein, zeaxanthin and isoflavones.  These phytonutrients are beneficial for eye health, cancer prevention, wound healing and gum tissue health.  Spinach contains vitamin A which helps protect skin from sun damage and ensures healthy cell turn over. 

  • Honeydew, avocado, kiwi, limes, kale, collards, spinach, tea, peppers, peas, grapes, green apples, asparagus and broccoli.

WHITE – White foods contain the phytonutrients allicin and quercetin that may reduce your risk of heart disease and cancer.  Leeks are packed with inulin, a plant fiber that has shown to increase calcium absorption.  Onions contain both sulphur, a powerful antibiotic, and quercetin, an anti-inflammatory agent.  White potatoes are high in vitamin B6 and potassium which support the cardiovascular system and aid in prevention of disease. 

  • Garlic, onions, leeks, cauliflower, potatoes, fennel, white turnip, white corn, white peaches, ginger and mushrooms. 

The FDA recommends 3 -5 servings of vegetables and 2-4 servings of fruit each day.  One serving of vegetables equals:

  • 1 cup of raw leafy vegetables
  • 1/2 cup of other vegetables cooked or raw
  • 3/4 cup of vegetable juice

One serving of fruit equals:

  • 1 medium apple, banana, orange, pear
  • 1/2 cup of chopped, cooked, or canned fruit
  • 3/4 cup of fruit juice

Following these guidelines, it is not difficult to get your full servings of fruits and vegetables each day.  Most of us tend to eat the same foods regularly.  Next time you go grocery shopping, try a fruit or vegetable that you have not had before rather than focusing on what is familiar to you.  When you explore new foods, you are introducing different nutrients and antioxidants to your body.   To reap the most health rewards from your fruit and vegetable consumption, simply think in terms of naturally bright-hued foods. Take your plate from monotone to an artist’s palette and eat your full range of colors every day. 

Supplements for phytonutrient balance:

Greens by Quantum Nutrition Labs Nature’s amazing live-sourced super nutrition formula for optimal health and rejuvenation. Our prized mix features our pristine Power Grass-Plus Blend™ (low-temperature, air-dried) coupled with Power Greens Blend™ for optimal effect. Vegan/vegetarian formula. 

Deeper Greens by Ortho Molecular Products –  Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (ORAC) is a unit value assigned by researchers to measure the antioxidant value of a given food.  Foods with a high ORAC value benefit the body by increasing plasma antioxidant levels.  Deeper Greens is formulated for excellent pH and fiber values, and contains a high ORAC value to meet the National Cancer Institute’s recommended 5-a-day intake of fruits and vegetables in a satisfying single serving.  Ortho Molecular’s Deeper Greens uses organically grown fruits, vegetables, and grasses where available. 

Organic Greens & Reds Powder by Douglas Laboratories –  Organic Greens and Reds powder is a healthful supplement containing a concentrated phytonutrient blend of grasses, vegetables and botanicals.  This product contains a wide assortment of organic vegetables and fruits that provide potent antioxidant protection.  In addition, fiber from flax seed and digestive enzymes are included to support overall gastrointestinal health.

Sweet Wheat Capsules by Brightcore Nutrition –  Rich in minerals such as phosphorus, iron, calcium and potassium and packed with vitamins including A, B, C and E.  Sweet Wheat provides an array of nutritional benefits including a boost to the immune system, detoxification, strong and healthy hair, skin and nails, and a more restful night’s sleep.

Phytoganix by Metagenics –  A convenient, delicious way to get a diverse daily supply of phytonutrients from certified organic sources to support overall good health.  This highly nutritious, berry red formula provides superfruits such as antioxidant-rich raspberries, blueberries, goji berries, and lingonberries, herbs including spirulina, polyphenol-rich green tea, astragalus, and ginger, vitamin C-rich acerola extract and vegetables such as green cabbage, beets, carrots, and spinach.