The coronary artery is the main blood vessel that supplies the heart
muscles with blood, nutrients and oxygen which it needs to function.
When fat droplets contained in the blood deposits on the walls of the
coronary artery over an extended period of time this can cause the
artery to narrow or constrict. If constriction results the individual
can experience pain or an unbearable feeling of pressure in the chest.
Relief from this discomfort can be obtained by resting from physical
activity or taking nitroglycerin or other Doctor prescribed medication.
However, if the obstruction becomes complete in one of the coronary
arteries a heart attack or myocardial infarction can result.
A
diet rich in fruits and vegetables is highly recommended after suffering
a heart attack. The antioxidants present reduce neurosis or cellular
death in the heart muscles. In the medical field it is widely believed
that Arteriosclerosis, or the condition that causes heart attacks can be
reversed. Research shows that after twelve months of a healthy diet
along with the appropriate lifestyle there is usually a ten percent
reduction of stenosis or narrowing of the coronary artries. Such a diet
includes the following foods: five portions of fresh fruits per day; a
fresh vegetable salad dressed with olive or seed oil; two or three
portions of legumes per week; whole grain bread or pasta, instead of
white bread or refined pasta; reduced salt and sugar consumption. Water
and fluid intake is also very vital to physical health. Enough to keep
the urine pale and at least two liters a day which is adequate to flush
out body toxins.
Health and Medical Experts have concluded through
research that a diet based on fruits, oil bearing nuts, vegetables,
legumes and whole grain simply prepared and eaten regularly gives the
best results for heart attack prevention. In addition to proper dieting
it is important to exercise at least three times a week for forty
minutes on each occasion to maintain a healthy heart and it is highly
recommends that the use of coffee and tobacco smoking be avoided at all
times.
Many statistical studies have shown that drinking between
one half to one small glass of red wine a day is very good for the heart
because it lowers the risk of death from coronary constriction that can
cause a heart attack. Consumption of white wine however, does not
produce the same results. Such an effect in any case only seems to
affect men who are at least fifty years of age. Research also shows that
when more than the amount of red wine recommended is consumed, the
mortality rate due to cardio-vascular diseases increased along with
symptoms, conditions and other health disorders.
As someone gets
older the body gets less efficient at absorbing nutrients and the immune
system gets less effective. For example Zinc: for good digestion;
vitamins A, C and E: to counteract damage by free radicals and important
supplements such as Ginkgo Biloba which helps to maintain physical and
mental functioning.
Omega 3 oils can be very useful in the
prevention of a heart attack and other heart conditions. Some sources of
the oil include: oily fish such as herrings, mackerel and salmon;
flaxseed/linseed; hemp; sunflower seeds; pumpkin seeds and walnuts.
Omega 3 fats are used to produce cell membranes, sex hormones and
hormone like chemicals known as series 3 prostaglandins. They perform
various functions in the human body including thinning the blood and
breaking down blood clots. They are known to reduce harmful fats in the
blood which contributes to the risk of heart attacks.
Garlic is
also very important in the prevention of heart conditions. It is an
antioxidant and antiseptic and helps to fight infection. Garlic keeps
body circulation healthy by reducing the level of blood fats and
lowering blood pressure thereby helping to protect someone against heart
diseases and stroke. Nutritionist recommends that one clove of garlic
or its equivalent should be consumed daily.
High blood pressure is
also a major threat to a strong and healthy heart. With high blood
pressure the force which the blood presses against the arteries as it
circulates around the body is greater than normal. Thus causing the
blood vessels to become narrower with thicker walls and put strain on
the heart. The lifestyle changes that can reduce blood pressure include
no smoking, choosing low fat diets, losing excess weight, reducing
alcohol consumption and regular exercise.
The following vitamins
are very useful:B3 which lowers raised blood pressure; vitamin C:reduces
blood pressure; vitamin D: assists in calcium absorption which helps
reduce blood pressure and vitamin E which helps to thin the blood.
Minerals too are very important. Calcium: stabilizes blood pressure.
Magnesium: dilates blood vessels reducing blood pressure. Potassium:
helps to flush excess sodium from the body and Selenium: increases the
effect of vitamin E.
In addition to the above mentioned foods the
following can be added to the list: oily fish such as sardines and
mackerel, oats, onions, low fat dairy products, ginger and celery. Other
vital nutrients: omega 6 oils: evening primrose oil lowers blood
pressure. Co-enzyme Q10 strengthens the heart and. Bioflavonoid increase
the action of vitamin C.
Please be well advised that refined and salty foods contribute to raised blood pressure and danger to the heart and body.
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