Did you know that heart disease is the number one cause of death in women in the United States and Canada? Not cancer, not the flu, not Alzheimer’s… HEART DISEASE!
And for the most part it is preventable with lifestyle changes. Here are risk factors for heart disease:
Things you can’t change:
- Family history
- Age
- Men’s risk increases especially after the age of 45
- Women’s risk increases especially after the age of 55 or after menopause
Things you can change:
- Smoking
- Lack of exercise
- Poor nutrition
- High sodium levels
- Drinking too much
- Being overweight
- High cholesterol levels
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes
- High stress levels
Exercise and diet are two key ingredients in keeping your ticker strong and healthy. Small changes like eating more fruits and vegetables and reducing (eliminating if possible) processed foods, coupled with a 30-minute walk per day, can go a long way.
Check out Essentials of Healthy Lifestyle and Dietary Support Recommendations for tips for living a healthier life.
Supplements can also play a supportive role in heart health. Pathway Cardio Support and Coenzyme Q10 are just two supplements that can help with cardiovascular health. If you have questions about what supplements are right for you, contact Village Green Apothecary.