Red wine drinkers can rejoice in the fact that their glass a day to unwind or drink with food is still an o.k. thing. However, doctors are careful not to encourage anyone, especially teetotalers, to start the practice. They are afraid their encouragement would convince some people that drinking is all right when in actuality it is a problem.

Until recently, doctors were not sure exactly what it was in red wine that was so beneficial to heart health but now they have somewhat of an answer. There is a component of red wine called resveratrol which exists in the seeds and skin of grapes used to make the wine. In addition, they believe that the alcohol itself that is produced during the fermentation process has some special components positive for heart health.

Why alcohol can be beneficial

Several types of alcohol, not just red wine, can be beneficial for the heart. These alcohols have the ability to hinder the creation of blood clots. They increase the level of good cholesterol aka high density lipoprotein (HDL) while preventing damage caused by the bad cholesterol aka low density lipoprotein (LDL).

There are conflicting results in some research studies which show no discernible difference between red wine and other liquors and their beneficial effects on the prevention of heart disease. However, many people are encouraged by other research studies that show the benefits of drinking a glass of red wine a day – healthier blood vessel walls that remember limber for the best blood flow possible.

A number of experts believe that polyphenols, antioxidants found in red wine, are the reason why the beverage is heart healthy. These antioxidants can be broken down into primary components – nonflavonoids and flavonoids. The flavonoids can be found beer, wine and other types of alcohol in addition to foods like onions, chocolate, tea, apples, oranges and more. The nonflavonoids however have the resveratrol found in the seeds and skin of the wine’s grapes that are garnering the attention.

In several scientific tests, the reservatrol protected laboratory animals from diabetes, obesity and other factors that can contribute to heart disease. There has been no conclusive testing as of yet on humans to see if the same results would apply. What the experts do believe is that the antioxidants found in the resveratrol play a key part in protecting your body’s blood vessels, the prevention of blood clots and the reduction in LDL cholesterol.

If you are a liquor drinking person, then the glass of red wine a day is probably welcome. However, if you are a non-drinker, you can still get your resveratrol in other ways such as consuming blueberries, peanuts, cranberries and more. Don’t trust in the supplements that offer this antioxidant as manufacturing likely has leached a lot of the effective parts out in the process.

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So what is this magical “flavonoid” anyway? Flavonoids are antioxidant components found mostly in foods derived from plants. The idea is that these flavonoids protect your heart by reducing the LDL part of your cholesterol levels, otherwise known as low-density lipoproteins or “bad” cholesterol. These “noids” diminish swelling and inflammation within the blood vessels, allowing better blood flow and proper oxygenation throughout the body.

Some studies unequivocally show that flavonoids definitely protect the heart while in others, the studies only hint at this protection. Because everyone’s health, genetic history and body chemistry is different, what may be a home run in the flavonoid department for one person may only be a bunt in another. Regardless, flavonoids are important to your health because their antioxidant properties help fight free radicals.

The subclasses of flavonoids

There are three main types of flavonoids (although there are more) that can help reduce the threat of heart disease in addition to other related health conditions including cardiovascular issues and diseases of the blood vessels. These flavones, anthocyanidins and flavonones subclasses can reduce the threat of heart disease by 10-25% or more, according to some medical researchers.

To get an idea of what foods contain flavonoids look to food and drink that have some intense color and flavors. For example, blueberries, raspberries and dark red and purple grapes contain anthocyanins as does red wine. Many citrus fruits like grapefruit, oranges, lemons and limes contain the flavanones part of the flavonoid family. Flavones can be found in celery, parsley, onion and different types of dried beans.

There are other food and drink items that contain flavonoids for good health such as green tea, Gingko Biloba, pears, apples and white tea. Dark chocolate with high percentages of cacao also contribute to the flavonoid pool. While flavonoids in general can help reduce the risk of heart disease, it is those three subclasses listed above that really put you over the top in terms of dietary protection.

Results

Whether you are young or older, introducing more foods with these flavonoids can and will make a difference. Of course, the earlier you start, the more protection you have. Different dietary studies have shown that women in particular benefit from flavonoids, especially those in perimenopause and menopause.

If you are ready to make the commitment to lower your risk of heart disease, incorporate some of the food items above. Visit with a nutritionist or do your own research to find even more foods with the flavonoids to add to your diet. Some of the best side effects to adopting a new diet with these foods include a lower cholesterol level, the likelihood of losing a few pounds and a deeper reservoir of energy…. (continues) …

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It’s a simple thing really but did you know that grapes have the power to reduce or turn back the trend of heart disease? There are some powerful components in this vine fruit like flavonoids which are powerful antioxidants that can help reduce blood pressure, prevent blood clotting, vamp up the cardiovascular system and even reduce cholesterol levels.

Flavonoid Power

The standard for maintaining your health in the face of heart disease has long been taking the aspirin a day approach. However, many diet studies have shown that daily consumption of flavonoids can actually be more effective. Of course, you have to adopt other healthier lifestyle choices like a better diet and exercise.

Heart attacks usually are the result of blood clots traveling through the blood vessels which encounter the plaque or fatty deposits that are on the walls of arteries. When the clots stick to these deposits, they can effectively block blood flow, causing heart attacks. Aspirin helped prevent the blood clots from being to sticky so as to prevent them from latching onto the plaque build-up. Flavonoids help do the same thing.

Flavonoids can be found in a number of foods and grapes top the list, specifically the dark colored kinds like red and purple. Not only do they prevent the stickiness of blood clots but they also provide anti-inflammatory properties for your body. The color pigments in the grapes are linked to anthocyanins, a powerful flavonoid with these properties. Other foods that also have these anthocyanins include deep colored berries as well as certain seeds.

Aspirin is not tolerated well by all people as it has the power to produce ulcers and other gastrointestinal side effects. Therefore, the flavonoids found in grapes are good news for these people. In fact, these powerful antioxidants help thin the blood enough for better flow and can actually prevent coronary artery disease, all the while protecting the stomach.

These flavonoids can be consumed by eating the dark red and purple grapes. However, these may not always be available in the produce section of your grocery store. You can get similar benefits from drinking dark purple grape juice. Remember, the powerful antioxidants are linked to the darker colors so the lighter white grape juice will not work. Red wine is another way to garner these flavonoids with the great antioxidant powers. Because it is an alcoholic beverage, only a glass is day is recommended.

The good news about consuming these grapes, juice or wine is that the effect of these flavonoids lingers on for several days. So if you cannot consume them every day that is ok. It is still working its magic on your blood and cardiovascular system.

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The bad fats

Reading food labels is important as they can answer many questions you have about the nutritional value of what you are eating. If you see a food item where the serving is more than two grams of saturated or trans fats, you might want to reconsider. The trans and saturated fats are two major culprits in raising cholesterol levels, gaining weight and raising blood pressure – all contributors to heart disease. You will likely find these types of fats in fried foods and stick butter and stick margarine.

The good fats

There are several types of good fats that are better for your body and your heart. Polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats both are heart healthy and do not contribute to accumulated belly fat. In fact, they can help you lose weight. You can find these two fats in many vegetable oils, nuts, olive oil, tub margarine, avocadoes, fish, dark chocolate and more.

The poly- and mono- forms of unsaturated fat work to prevent heart disease by lowering cholesterol, keeping blood vessels pliable and elastic and reducing blood clotting. Omega-3 fatty acids are a class of polyunsaturated fats that are particularly beneficial for the heart.

The best resource for omega-3 fatty acids is fish, particularly cold water dense varieties. Salmon, mackerel, trout, herring and sardines are just a few examples of these fatty acids. The American Heart Association, the leading institution for heart disease information, suggests several servings a week – at least three or four.

You can also derive omega-3 fatty acids from plant-based sources, although they will not be as dense with beneficial qualities as those that are fish based. Flaxseed is an important source as is canola oil and walnuts.

Omega-6 fatty acids are important as well for heart health and are also considered polyunsaturated fats. Some of the same foods that you get omega-3′s from, you can get the omega-6 versions as well. Soy products and vegetable oils derived from sunflower, corn, safflower and sesame are a few examples. Soft tub margarine, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds and walnuts are others.

Monounsaturated fats can be found in avocadoes, peanuts, natural peanut butter, other nut butters, dark chocolate, olive oil, canola oil, almonds, cashews, macadamia nuts and many more. All of these “good” fats are beneficial for lowering that cholesterol and blood pressure. Some of them even help you lose belly fat and weight. All of them should be used within reason to create a well-rounded, healthy diet plan. If you have been at risk for heart disease, talk with your doctor to understand what is the best amount of fats you should be able to consume in your diet and work them in accordingly for maximum heart health benefit.

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Preventative maintenance

Preventative measures are the key to avoiding heart disease and these usually involve several lifestyle changes. For example, your eating habits are one of the easiest to change and if you are a bit flummoxed as to what you should do, consult with a nutritionist. Basically, eat plenty of whole grains, vegetables, fruits, lean meats and fish and low fat dairy products.

Kick the smoking habit and moderate your alcohol intake. Studies show that one drink a day does reduce some risk of heart disease, especially a glass of red wine. However, if you are a non-drinker, don’t start the habit! Men who do drink are allotted two drinks to the women’s one per day to keep heart disease at bay.

Exercise is the third point in the preventative maintenance triangle. If you lead a totally sedentary life, you will need to start slow and work your way up to a real workout. Walking is a great aerobic exercise and good for the heart. Once you are an exercise regular, you can add strength training too to help keep the weight off.

Altering your other heart disease risk factors

There are certain things you cannot help such as family history and genetics, so if there are incidences of heart disease in your family, you have to be diligent with your health. Get your cholesterol checked regularly to ensure your “good” HDL cholesterol far outweighs the “bad” LDL cholesterol. If you have diabetes, follow your diet, take your medications and test your insulin levels regularly too.

Quit smoking all together and get help for it if necessary. Ask your doctor about taking an aspirin a day as a way to lower your risk of heart disease. Have your blood pressure checked regularly as well as some people tend to hover around the borderline for hypertension.

Medicated treatments

Sometimes, no matter what you do, you will still be at risk for heart disease and therefore a doctor may prescribe medications to keep your heart strong and healthy and your arteries clear of plaque build-up. Aspirin, diuretics, beta blockers, nitroglycerin, calcium channel blockers and other drugs all work to keep the blood flowing healthily in the arteries to promote better oxygenation of the body.

Surgery and medical procedures

Surgeons may perform an angioplasty if an angiogram shows blockage of an artery. This procedure involves threading a balloon-like device into the artery and inflating it at the narrow site where the blockage occurs. A stent may be placed at the site to prevent that area from collapsing causing another blockage.

Surgeries and other medical procedures exist and help you in the fight of heart disease. Every person is different and gets the disease for different reasons whether it is poor lifestyle habits or genetics. Talk with your doctor and discuss your options for heart disease treatment.

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1. Coronary artery disease – This type of heart disease afflicts the arteries and is produced by the build-up of plaque within the arterial walls that provide the oxygen-rich supply of blood to the myocardium. Some of the symptoms of this plaque build-up within the arterial walls includes heart attack and angina (chest pain). Half a million people die each year in the United States from this heart disease.

2. Cardiovascular disease – This type of heart disease encompasses all of the diseases that affect the blood vessel system, specifically the ones that lead to and from the heart as well as anything that affects the heart itself. Men predominantly get cardiovascular disease that affects the muscle of the heart while the women suffer primarily from affected blood vessels. Atherosclerosis is one type of cardiovascular disease and conditions such as diabetes and hypertension also contribute to this form.

3. Cardiomyopathy – This heart disease affects the muscles of the heart itself called the myocardium. There are two sub-parts to this particular type of heart disease – extrinsic and internal cardiomyopathy. In other words, the disease could affect the outer part of the muscles or the inner part. Metobolic disease, nutritional deficiencies, congenital defects, alcoholism and other conditions can cause cardiomyopathy. This condition can cause sudden death in some seemingly normal people or even arrhythmia, an irregular heartbeat.

4. Congestive heart failure – Also sometimes called congestive cardiac failure or just heart failure, this type of heart disease is the result of any physical abnormality which could impair the function of the heart itself, such as the ability to properly pumped oxygenated blood throughout the body or even the ability for the heart to fill up with blood in order to pump it out.

5. Ischaemic heart disease – The primary cause of this type of heart disease is the inability to supply enough blood to all the body organs to function properly. This disease is related to coronary artery disease and can be caused by years of smoking, high cholesterol levels, hypertension and more.

6. Hypertensive heart disease – This brand of heart disease is the result of consistent high blood pressure. Various conditions can contribute to this type of disease, particularly diabetes and obesity.

7. Valvular disease – This type of heart disease involves one or more valves within the heart by impairing function. There is the aortic valve and mitral valve located on the left side while the pulmonic and tricuspid valve is located on the right hand side. Any or all of these can become impaired causing this disease.

8. Inflammatory heart disease – When the tissue surrounding the heart or the heart itself swells or becomes inflamed, this causes inflammatory heart disease. There are several types: myocarditis which is inflammation of the heart muscle and endocarditis which is the inflammation of the heart valves or other inside layers of the heart muscle.

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The key ingredient to a heart healthy diet is plenty of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, fish and fiber. Of course, some of these are better than others and may have key components like omega 3 fatty acids, antioxidants or monounsaturated fats that put them far above other foods.

The benefits of following the Mediterranean diet

There are a number of studies that show a Mediterranean diet definitely lowers heart disease risk in men and women as well as certain types of cancer. That is great news for you as the diet is perhaps the easiest to manipulate. Following this eating plan means that you will follow these dietary tenets:

1. Consume plenty of vegetables and fruits

2. Eat small servings of nuts high in monounsaturated fats (aka mufas)

3. Incorporate fish several times a week and reduce red meats

4. Add healthy oils such as canola or olive oils

When it comes to the grains, vegetables and fruits, you will hopefully average 7-9 servings daily in your new Mediterranean diet plan. These selections must be high in antioxidants to be heart healthy. Bread, rice and pasta made with whole grains (no white flour) are the best choice for your diet and no butter spreads are allowed!

Your choice of fats is very important when it comes to the heart healthy Mediterranean diet. Choose those foods that are high in monounsaturated fats as well as polyunsaturated fats. These contain the omega 3 fatty acids that are so important in lowering the “bad” cholesterol as well as lower triglycerides in the blood. Olive oil, canola oil, walnuts, almonds, sunflower seeds, pecans and macadamia nuts are high in these good fats.

The key to diet success

The key to succeeding with the Mediterranean diet is following the eating rules above and reading food labels. You want to eliminate or greatly reduce your intake of saturated and trans fats. Don’t assume that if a label says it is “cholesterol-free” or “low fat” that it’s ok to eat. Often times, these foods are high in the bad kinds of fat or are saddled with extra salt and sugars to make them more palatable.

It can be tough at first following the Mediterranean diet but keep your heart health as the prize for sticking to your eating goals. If possible, slowly incorporate your changes so you won’t notice or feel like you are going “cold turkey” in some areas. Mix your white rice or pastas with the whole grain versions until you end up with all whole grain. Create your own salad dressings with olive oil. Swap your whole milk, cheeses and yogurt for the healthier 2% or fat-free versions. There are a number of ways to ease into the Mediterranean diet. Remember – your heart will thank you for your efforts!

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Diet is the key

The foods you eat can greatly influence how heart disease takes it hold on you, if ever. Heart disease can be the result of congenital defects but it just as likely could be the result of eating lots of fatty foods high in cholesterol, fats, sugars and salt – all the bad stuff that contributes to the disease. You should instead focus on high fiber foods like whole grains, beans and peas. Add foods made for cleansing your fat clogged arteries like garlic, celery, melon, onions and more. These foods help lower the LDL cholesterol levels in the blood as well as prevent blood clots from forming and lodging themselves in the narrowed arteries. Citrus foods, complex carbohydrates, fruits, vegetables …these all contain antioxidants and others components that work to fight harmful oxidizing agents in the body.

Chelation therapy is an option

Chelation therapy is nothing new and yet it is not always tried when heart disease is on the scene. One of the contributors to the disease is the accumulation of minerals in the arteries and within the heart muscle. Chelation therapy works to reduce the minerals, basically break them down so that balance is restored to the body. This usually works when a special manmade amino acid is injected into your bloodstream. This amino acid takes out the overabundance of minerals which the kidneys then flush out of the body.

Get to know your fats

Knowing your fats in food can help you avoid or reverse some of the effects of heart disease. Some meats contain not only saturated fats but also trans fats so it is important to choose only the leanest cuts. Butter, sticks of margarine and shortening used to fry foods all contain bad forms of the fat.

The best fats are the poly- and mono- unsaturated fats as these work to lower cholesterol levels, triglycerides and reduce blood pressure – all factors that lead to heart disease. You can usually find these unsaturated fats in nuts, vegetable oils, avocadoes, natural peanut butter, seeds like pumpkin or sunflower and even seafood. Omega-3 and omega-6 essential fatty acids are part of these unsaturated fats and are important for good heart health too.

Supplement your diet

Even the most conscientious eater may not be able to eat all the foods that will provide enough of the nutrients needed to combat heart disease or prevent it effectively. Therefore, supplements are an option and can be found in pill or capsule forms. One of the most popular supplements is for magnesium as this is an essential mineral for heart health and may not be adequately consumed through food. Antioxidants like vitamins C and E are important for strengthening the walls of your blood vessels as well as shore them up against possible damage. Oxygenation is important for good cell health and these antioxidants as well as supplements like coenzyme Q10 handle it well.

A number of factors exist that not only contribute to heart disease but also prevent them as well. One method may work better over another. You may have to experiment a bit to find the right combination. The bottom line is that clean living is the key to a healthier heart so you have to make a commitment to achieve it.

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When the arterial blockage drastic and sudden, you may experience a heart attack or what doctors call a myocardial infarction. This condition called cardiac ischemia contributes to arrhythmia which is an abnormal heart beat. This abnormal heart beat could cause a number of problems from fainting to even death.

Symptoms and signs of cardiac ischemia

There are some symptoms or signs of cardiac ischemia which could signal you have a problem, especially if you have no idea you have heart issues. These symptoms and signs include shortness of breath, clammy skin and arm pain (the stereotypical pain you might read about or see on television). Chest pain may occur which doctors call angina pectoris and vomiting or nausea may be present. Finally, jaw pain or neck pain is an issue as well.

If you have any metabolic conditions such as diabetes, the symptoms and signs above may not occur. Doctors typically make a diagnosis of cardiac ischemia based on a number of factors as not everyone displays the typical symptoms. These factors include your medical history as well as that of your family, physical exam, study of your coronary angiogram, results of a stress test and even an electrocardiogram.

Factors that lead to cardiac ischemia

While you cannot control your family’s medical history and genetics, you can control other aspects of your life that could contribute to cardiac ischemia. For instance, your diet plays a big part in heart disease. You would need a diet low in fats and cholesterol and high in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and more.

Exercise is important as it conditions the heart and keeps your body oxygenated and healthy. Plus, exercise can help keep off the weight which is another factor that can contribute to cardiac ischemia. Obesity, hypertension and high cholesterol levels are all contributors to heart disease so you have to do whatever you can to avoid them.

Treating cardiac ischemia

The primary goal in treating cardiac ischemia is to increase the blood flow to your heart. This could require an angioplasty to widen the artery in question and place a stent in there to keep it open. Coronary artery bypass surgery is another option although it is saved for more serious cases when angioplasty could not help. Medications such as blood thinners, aspirin therapy or beta blockers can help. This help keep the blood from clotting in areas where the arteries are narrower.

Once good blood flow is re-established, this will enable you to better implement an exercise program as well as get started on other lifestyle changes. Cardiac ischemia may not be curable but it certainly is treatable.

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It is no secret that healthy diet practices result in lower cholesterol levels. In turn, this means you will have a healthier heart as well as all that go with it. Could a handful of nuts a day could keep the doctor away? What about a bowl of oatmeal or enhanced margarine? If your diet could use a bit of a revamp, consider some healthier substitutions for the fatty parts of your diet.

Your goal should be to keep the consumption of saturated and trans fats low in order to reduce heart disease risk and cholesterol levels. If you are unsure where to start, here are five heart healthy foods you can incorporate to get you started on a better eating plan:

1. Foods with omega-3 fatty acids – You will find the highest levels of omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil and therefore in the consumption of such fish varieties as salmon, mackerel, trout, tuna and more. These fatty acids work to help lower blood pressure and they help reduce the risk of blood clotting. Canola oil and flaxseed are two plant-based foods that also contain omega-3 fatty acids. Don’t bother with a dietary supplement as you would not be getting the other beneficial properties these foods provide such as extra vitamins and minerals.

2. Oats – Oatmeal is regaining popularity as a breakfast food thanks to its heart healthy properties. As a soluble fiber, it can reduce the “bad” cholesterol (LDL). In addition, it fills you up to prevent overeating and prevents as much cholesterol from your food being absorbed in the intestine. You can also get your oatmeal through cold breakfast cereals or sprinkling oat bran on food.

3. Plant stanols or sterols – These are substances found in plants that mimic the cellular wall structure of animal-based cholesterol. These stanols and sterols help hinder the absorption of cholesterol in the body to keep your levels down and your heart healthier. There are still food studies being done on the plant stanols and sterols but so far, they have proven worthy of lowering LDL cholesterol levels and reducing triglycerides as well. Margarine and yogurts are two food products that contain these substances.

4. Olive oil – If you need oil for recipes or cooking, olive oil is a great choice as it lowers your bad LDL cholesterol levels while keeping your good HDL ones in check. The monounsaturated fats helps reduce belly fat and the antioxidants are great for the heart as well. The great news about olive oil is that is can be used for most anything from marinades and dressings to saut

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