Understanding Blood Pressure

blood pressureAccording to the CDC, 75 million Americans have high blood pressure. And another one in three Americans are at risk for developing high blood pressure. Having high blood pressure puts you at risk for heart disease and stroke, which are leading causes of death in the United States. The American Heart Association now defines high blood pressure as 130/80 mm Hg or higher.

Blood pressure is the force of blood pushing against the walls of the arteries that carry blood from your heart to other parts of your body. Blood pressure normally rises and falls throughout the day, but it can damage your heart and cause health problems if it stays high for a long time. Continue reading “Understanding Blood Pressure”

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CDC Should Prescribe Plant-Based Diet for Middle-Aged Hearts

plant-based-diet2Middle-aged adults are being especially hard hit by heart disease, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. So it just launched Million Hearts to help prevent a million heart attacks and strokes by 2022. The initiative encourages people to eat a heart-healthy diet, get physically active, and quit smoking. Good advice. But the CDC’s Million Hearts Initiative should be clear that the heart-healthiest diet is a plant-based diet.

The CDC says that about 16 million heart attacks, strokes, and related events could happen by 2022, but that 80% of premature heart disease and strokes are preventable by focusing on what it calls the ABCS of heart health: Aspirin use when appropriate, Blood pressure control, Cholesterol management, and Smoking cessation. Continue reading “CDC Should Prescribe Plant-Based Diet for Middle-Aged Hearts”

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5 Heart Health Facts You Should Know

heart-healthFebruary is American Heart Month and heart disease is the number 1 killer in the United States. Not cancer, not accidents… heart disease. For many, this is a preventable disease. A healthy diet of whole natural foods, regular exercise and good quality sleep can go a long way to reduce the stresses on the heart, arguably the body’s most important organ. Sometimes these aren’t enough to keep the heart healthy. Here are some preconceived notions that many people have about heart health and what you really need to know to avoid heart disease. Continue reading “5 Heart Health Facts You Should Know”

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Dessert Today: Cantaloupe Salad

cantaloupeGrowing up, lunch and dinner were always followed by dessert. Dessert was not cake and ice cream, it was whatever fruit was in season. I have fond memories of my dad just slicing up mangoes, honeydews and even pineapples at the table and passing around slices. Cantaloupes were one of my favorites!

Although cantaloupe on its own is delicious, the recipe below gives it a little extra flavor and protein! Cantaloupe is about 90% water, so it is a great hydrating treat for the remaining hot days of summer. Continue reading “Dessert Today: Cantaloupe Salad”

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Dinner Tonight: Turnip Greens and Tofu

turnip-greensCutting meat out of your diet even once a week can have positive effects on your health, particularly your heart health. Since February is American Heart Month, we are going to offer a heart-healthy recipe every week.

Turnip greens are a concentrated source of many vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients. Leafy greens, including turnip greens are linked to prevention of certain cancers (bladder, breast, lung and prostate) and diabetes. They also protect heart health and play a significant role in the maintenance of good bone and eye health. Aim for at least three servings of dark leafy greens per day.

Tofu is rich in protein, as well as iron, calcium, zinc, and B vitamins. Tofu is also good for heart health, helping to regulate blood pressure, reduce cholesterol, and improve vascular function. Continue reading “Dinner Tonight: Turnip Greens and Tofu”

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Our Bloggers

  • Paula Gallagher
    Paula Gallagher
    Paula is a highly qualified and experienced nutrition counselor on the staff at Village Green.
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  • Margo Gladding
    Margo Gladding
    Margo's impressive knowledge base is the result of a unique blend of educational and professional experience.
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  • Dr. Neal Barnard
    Dr. Neal Barnard
    Dr. Barnard leads programs advocating for preventive medicine, good nutrition, and higher ethical standards in research.
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  • Joseph Pizzorno
    Dr. Joseph Pizzorno
    Dr. Joseph Pizzorno, ND is a pioneer of integrative medicine and a leading authority on science-based natural medicine.
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  • Debi Silber
    Debi Silber
    Debi is a registered dietitian with a master’s degree in nutrition, a personal trainer, and whole health coach.
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  • Teri Cochrane
    Teri Cochrane
    Teri is a is a Certified Coach Practitioner with extensive certifications and experience in holistic medicinal practices.
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  • Dr. Rav Ivker
    Dr. Rav Ivker
    Dr. Rav Ivker is a holistic family physician, health educator, and best-selling author.
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  • Susan Levin
    Susan Levin
    Susan writes about the connection between plant-based diets and a reduced risk of chronic diseases.
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  • Rob Brown
    Dr. Rob Brown
    Dr. Brown's blended perspective of healthcare includes a deeply rooted passion for wellness and spiritual exploration.
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