Bringing wholesome healthy tips
Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is a common heart rhythm disorder that causes the heart to beat too quickly and irregularly and can lead to stroke or heart failure. For years, doctors have been warning people with AFib or other heart issues to avoid coffee, for fear the caffeinated drink could worsen their symptoms. But recent research has found no evidence that coffee consumption raises the risk of any form of arrhythmia.…
As I approach 70, I figure I’ve got a pretty good shot at getting through this life with my mental faculties intact. There are two reasons I say this. First, my mom was sharp as a tack until she left us at almost 101. Second, music has always been a vital part of my life. I depend on my playlist to help my mood, get work done and relax. If…
If you’ve suffered a heart attack, you have to focus not only on your initial recovery, but on preventing another attack. That’s because the risk of a second heart attack is significant: about 1 in 5 people experience a recurrent event within five years. But it’s not inevitable. The power to create a heart-healthy future is in your hands. Simple steps like eating healthy, including plenty of fruits, vegetables and…
Which is better, aerobic exercise (like running, biking or swimming) or strength training (exercises like lifting weights, planks or push-ups)? The answer: it depends… Aerobic exercise burns more calories than strength training, so it’s good for weight loss. And it’s good for your heart health (probably why we call it “cardio” for short). Research also shows that it may be better for stress reduction. On the other hand, studies have…
Medications for type 2 diabetes are intended to control the condition, not cure it. That doesn’t mean the condition can’t be managed, even reversed, without medication for many people… Previous studies have shown that a very low-calorie diet for 8 weeks can reverse diabetes, and that losing 10% of body weight within five years of diagnosis can send it into remission. Then there’s exercise… According to the American Diabetes Association,…
Japanese culture offers a wealth of wisdom on how to nourish our bodies. For example, there’s the Okinawan diet that helps the Japanese live a disease-free life well into their 80s. Then there’s the principle of ichiju sansai, or “one soup, three dishes,” which the Japanese consider a well-balanced meal. There’s a third principle that has more to do with how you consume your food than with what you eat.…
Omega-3 essential fatty acids are healthy fats your body can’t make on its own — but needs them to function. In addition to supporting brain and eye health, omega-3 essential fatty acids are crucial for cardiovascular health, particularly in individuals at high risk. Studies have shown omega-3s help lower triglyceride levels and reduce risks for stroke and heart attack. In fact, the FDA has acknowledged that two of the three primary components…
You’re probably already aware of the potential health risks associated with processed foods, especially when it comes to our heart health. Many people have found themselves reevaluating their dietary choices and opting to forgo some of their favorite quick meals due to concerns about heart attacks and strokes. But don’t worry — there’s some exciting news… Research is shedding light on the notion that certain processed fats may not be…
Viral season is officially in high gear, and I should know… My family and I are just now recovering from a bout of COVID, while my neighbors battled the flu. Now that our sore throats, drainage and coughs are waning, it’s easy to believe that the worst is over. However, according to the American Heart Association, even though the symptoms of a viral infection may be long gone, you can…
I have a friend who has osteoarthritis in his knee. It used to be that whenever he had painful flare-ups, he would take an anti-inflammatory drug like ibuprofen and rest. But not only does relying on NSAID pain relief carry risks, his doctor told him that exercise was the best way to relieve his pain. If you’re in the same situation, you may be wondering which type of exercise would…