Saturday, September 11, 2010

Promoting Lifelong Cardiovascular Health - Robert W. Horovitz, B.Sc., ND

Robert W. Horovitz, B.Sc., ND
Naturopathic Doctor
The Lifelong Wellness Company Inc.
Active Health Centre
5871 Hwy 7 E
Markham, ON L3P 1A3
Clinic: (905) 294-0454

e-mail: info@lifelongwellnesscentre.com
www.lifelongwellnesscentre.com
www.facebook.com/lifelongwellnesscentre
www.twitter.com/lifelongwell

Cardiovascular disease and associated disorders are collectively one of the worlds largest killers, yet preventative strategies are often overlooked and/or undermined. A healthy diet, exercise, as well as avoidance of tobacco and alcohol are general recommendations that go without saying, however there are specific strategies that can be used to help minimize risk factors and promote optimal cardiovascular health. These include but are not limited to, strategies that modulate inflammation, protect against oxidative damage, promote a healthy stress response, and maximize normal metabolic functioning.

Inflammation is necessary; it allows us to heal properly and plays an integral role in our overall immune response. Conversely, if chronic and in excess, it can increase risks of heart attacks, strokes, and even death via slow plaque formation in our arteries. Food can have profound influence over inflammation. A high intake of saturated fats (butter, cream, lard, red meat) as well as too much of omega 6 (vegetable oil, corn oil, sunflower oil) relative to omega 3 fatty acid (wild Pacific salmon) can result in inflammation. Ask your Naturopathic Doctor whether your diet is pro-inflammatory. There are many natural substances which are anti-inflammatory. Ginger for example contains over 200 known constituents for modulating inflammation that act synergistic to promote optimal cardiovascular health. Turmeric and cayenne pepper are two other notable food/herb items that module inflammation, and there are hundreds, if not thousands of other species that exist in nature.

When fats are cooked using high temperatures, they are at increased risk of becoming oxidized. Oxidized fat has a greater chance of developing into arterial plaque. Other oxidants (also called free radicals) originate from environmental toxins, cigarette smoke, etc. These oxidants not only promote cardiovascular disease, but many other diseases, including Cancer. Healthy oils such as from grape seed, coconut, and avocado can be added cold to already cooked meals. Salmon may be baked instead of fried. Moreover, spices such as ginger and turmeric may be added. You can further protect yourself from free radicals by consuming foods that are high in antioxidants such as blueberries, goji berries, raw cacao nibs, and pomegranate, to name a few.

Although a healthy stress response is beneficial for managing everyday living, it is important to provide your body with the right fuel to adequately cope. Chronic stress can lead to many physiological changes such as elevated blood pressure and consequently can increase risk of developing heart disease. Foods that are rich in vitamin C and B5 such as green, leafy vegetables should be considered. Deep breathing techniques have merit and some herbs known as adaptogens may also be used. Ask your Naturopathic Doctor for more information.

With respect to metabolism, b-vitamins are useful in enabling our bodies to adequately break down fats into usable energy. Green leafy vegetables are not only great sources of these vitamins, but they also contain antioxidants that can help against oxidative stress. Maintaining an efficient metabolism through diet and exercise can help maximize your energy level as well as minimize your waistline, ultimately decreasing your risk of developing cardiovascular disease. Ginger and Cayenne, which have already been mentioned for their cardio protective properties, are of noteworthy mention as they possess thermogenic qualities. They create heat, which enhances normal metabolic functioning. They are also antioxidant rich.

Cardiovascular disease is extremely dangerous and preventable. Often the first symptom is a major heart attack, or a stroke, or worse. There are many risk factors and it is important to keep in mind that everyone is incredibly different. Smoking for example may be caused by a multitude of factors ranging from stress, to addiction, to other lifestyle factors. Robert W. Horovitz Naturopathic Doctor can help you determine your individualized risk factors and work with you to create a customized, comprehensive plan that is right for you. Book your free 15 minute consult today: (905) 294-0454 (Markham, Ontario) or 'Ask the Doc' at info@lifelongwellnesscentre.com

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