Tag: stroke

Nutrient Depletion: Blood Pressure Drugs

September 25th, 2012 by Paula Gallagher

Blood pressure drugs such as ACE inhibitors and beta blockers are important medications for many people, but they can come with many side effects, especially as a result of nutrient depletion.

If you are currently on any of blood pressure drugs, talk to a pharmacist about side effects and nutrient depletions.

The following nutrients are usually depleted with long-term use of blood pressure medications:

Magnesium, potassium, calcium, zinc – These important minerals work synergistically to support cardiovascular health.

CoQ10 – This important antioxidant acts as a cofactor in many metabolic pathways, particularly in the production of ATP (energy). It is also is a key nutrient in maintaining a strong heart.

For some people, exercise and diet can eliminate the need for blood pressure medications. Consuming a diet low in sodium and rich in fruits vegetables, and combining that with a daily 30-minute walk, can make a big difference.

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Response to Study on Omega-3s and Cardiovascular Health

September 17th, 2012 by Paula Gallagher

A study was published recently in the Journal of the American Medical Association about the effectiveness of omega-3 supplementation and its role in preventing cardiac events, like strokes and heart attacks.

Please read the following letter in response to the study from Dr. Keri Marshall, a naturopathic doctor at Village Green Apothecary who also serves as Chief Medical Office for Nordic Naturals. If you still have concerns and questions, contact Village Green Apothecary. Continue reading “Response to Study on Omega-3s and Cardiovascular Health”

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An Orange a Day Keeps Strokes Away

February 29th, 2012 by Paula Gallagher

A new study in the journal Stroke has found that citrus fruits, especially oranges and grapefruits, can reduce the risk of strokes. The key to citrus are the flavonoids. Flavonoids are the antioxidant compounds in fruits and vegetables that give them their rich colors—and also many of their health benefits. These benefits are thought to be related to the ability of flavonoids to improve blood vessel function and to their anti-inflammatory effects.

Although more research is needed, it seems eating the whole fruit is definitely preferable to just drinking its juice. Most juices contain fewer nutrients and often contain added sugar. According to the paper, “Given the higher flavanone content of citrus fruits and the sugar content of commercial fruit juices, public health recommendations should focus on increasing citrus fruit intake.” Continue reading “An Orange a Day Keeps Strokes Away”

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Magnesium Decreases Risk of Stroke

February 14th, 2012 by Paula Gallagher

Research published in the latest American Journal of Clinical Nutrition has found each 100 mg increment of magnesium intake per day was associated with an 8% risk reduction for stroke.

Seven studies were evaluated to determine if magnesium intake had an effect on stroke occurrence. Magnesium is a key anti-inflammatory mineral that relaxes your nerves and arteries, and supports healthy electrical signalling to your heart. A majority of Americans lack optimal magnesium intake due to a refined-food diet, and soils that lack magnesium from poor farming methods.

With stroke being the top killer in the United States, something as simple as getting enough magnesium should be a no-brainer. Here are some foods that are great sources of magnesium:

Pumpkin seeds, spinach, Swiss chard, halibut, black beans, cashews, almonds, sunflower seeds and dairy.

If you still have a hard time getting in at least 400mg of magnesium per day with food, take a quality supplement to help.

 

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Apples May Lower Stroke Risk

September 27th, 2011 by Paula Gallagher

Fall is here and so are apples and pears! I love this time of year because the local orchards are abundant with Gala, MacIntosh and Red Delicious apples … to name a few of my favorites. Just in time, since a study out of the Netherlands has found that an apple a day may really help keep the doctor away. Researchers have found that people who eat a high amount of white fleshed fruits and veggies, like pears, apples and cauliflower can lower stroke risk by as much as 52%.

The study followed more than 20,000 adults over 10 years and found for every 25 grams per day increase in white fruits and vegetables, there was a 9% lower risk of stroke. So considering that 25 grams per day is about ¼ of an apple, it seems like an easy addition to one’s diet. Continue reading “Apples May Lower Stroke Risk”

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