The Truth about Heart Disease
Coronary Heart Disease is the leading cause of death in North America for both men and women and has reached epidemic proportions throughout the Western world. Coronary heart disease is a narrowing of the blood vessels (arteries) which supply oxygenated blood to the heart. This is caused by the buildup of plaque in the arteries that feed your heart – also called ‘hardening of the arteries’ or atherosclerosis. The scary truth is that around 90% of the artery is already blocked before symptoms of atherosclerosis become apparent. In light of the fact that atherosclerosis is largely a disease of diet and lifestyle, many of these deaths could be significantly delayed through healthier diet and lifestyle choices.
First of all, let’s evaluate your risk:
The various risk factors for atheroscleosis are divided into two primary categories: major risk factors and other risk factors. The major risk factors are as follows:
- Elevated blood cholesterol levels (ie high LDL and low HCL cholesterol)
- High blood pressure
- Cigarette smoking
- Diabetes Mellitus
- Physical inactivity
- Obesity
- Male sex
- Family history of premature atherosclerosis
In addition to theses well-accepted major risk factors, there are numerous other factors which on occasion have been shown to be more significant than the “major” risk factors. These additional risk factors are as follows:
- Low antioxidant status
- Low levels of essential fatty acids
- Low levels of magnesium and potassium
- Increased platelet aggregation
- Increased fibrinogen formation
- Elevated levels of homocysteine (a sulfur-containing amino acid)
- Low thyroid function
- Type “A” personality
You can also take the Canadian Heart and Stroke Foundation’s Risk Assessment survey which offers personalized insights towards a healthier you. Take the test
February is Heart Month
Each day this month we will make a new gem of health information available for you to keep your heart healthy and prolong your life!
-Karen Hack, BHSc, ND