There are a number of heart healthy snacks to choose from such as raisins, avocados, soy products, and walnuts topping the list. Choosing foods loaded with omega-3 fatty acids are good for heart health, and foods rich in calcium, potassium and magnesium help to lower blood pressure. Snacks that are high in fiber also help to decrease cholesterol.

Snacking on raisins regularly has been shown to help lower blood pressure. The potassium in raisins is responsible for having a positive impact on blood pressure. With 60 percent more potassium than the banana, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention the avocado is often considered a super fruit. The avocado also is rich in vitamins, unsaturated fat and provides plenty of fiber and potassium.

Consuming soy food products like soy milk can also have heart health benefits like decreasing blood pressure. The isoflavone (a flavanoid), called genistein contained in soy foods causes blood vessels to dilate which in turn lowers blood pressure. Soy milk also has calcium, magnesium, folate, phytoestrogens, potassium, and B-complex vitamins. Phytoestrogens are plant substances that have a weakened estrogen-like effect on the body related to diminishing risks of blood clots, cardiac arrhythmias, and stroke.

Walnuts are considered a heart friendly snack because they contain healthy fats like monounsaturated and polyunsaturated which reduce blood levels of bad cholesterol (LDL) and increase good cholesterol (HDL). They also contain twice as many antioxidants than most other nuts. Walnuts are also a good source of plant based omega-3 fatty acids, folate, fiber and vitamin E too. Omega-3 fatty acids are a type of polyunsaturated fat that has been shown to help decrease blood pressure and blood clots and protect from plaque build-up.

Almonds have fiber, phytosterols, plant omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin E and magnesium as well as heart friendly mono and polyunsaturated fats.  Phytosterols are chemically similar to cholesterol and appear to help lower blood cholesterol levels.  A handful of almonds are an adequate serving.  Add them to a parfait; eat them in the raw, or in a snack mix.

Flaxseed is a good source of fiber, omega-3 fatty acids and phytoestrogens. When ground up they are easily concealed in a number of dishes from homemade breads or cookies to smoothies and salads.  Oranges are full of fiber, folate, potassium, vitamin C, lutein, beta and alpha carotene, flavones, and beta-cryptoxanthin.

Oatmeal is a good source of soluble fiber, magnesium, potassium, folate, omega-3 fatty acids, calcium and niacin. A bowl of oatmeal with some blueberries is even better. Blueberries contain vitamin C, lutein and beta-carotene (both carotenoids), calcium, fiber, potassium, magnesium, a polyphenol called ellagic acid, and a flavonoid called anthocyanin. Polyphenols and carotenoids are both types of antioxidants. But don’t stop at blueberries, raspberries, strawberries and cranberries are good heart healthy alternatives too.

According to the Dietary Guidelines of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, men should consume 38 grams of fiber and women should have 25 grams of fiber daily. High fiber foods include fruits, veggies, oats, grains and beans. A diet rich in fiber helps to lower cholesterol which can help to lower the risk of cardiovascular disease. Eating fiber daily also aids in cleansing the digestive tract.  A fiber supplement can help for those who have difficulty consuming enough fiber from whole foods daily.

Works Cited

Carollo, Kim. “Top 5 Heart-Healthy Snacks.”  Abcnews.go.com. 26 Mar. 2012. 8 May 2013.                 http://abcnews.go.com/Health/top-heart-healthy-snacks/story?id=15996098.

Lerche Davis, Jeanie.  “25 Top Heart-Healthy Foods.” WebMD.com. 25 Aug. 2009. 9 May 2013.                 http://www.webmd.com/food-recipes/features/25-top-heart-healthy-foods.

The Benefits of Fiber: For Your Heart, Weight, and Energy. WebMD.com. 13 Oct. 2012. 13 May 2013.                 [http://www.webmd.com/diet/fiber-health-benefits-11/compare-dietary-fibers].

All nuts contain fiber and they aren’t an “empty” calorie food. This is why eating them can help give one a “full” feeling. Research has suggested that fiber may help to deter the onset of diabetes but it has also been shown to help lower cholesterol which is good for a healthy heart. Eating nuts in place of junk food can help an individual to stick to a heart friendly diet. Nuts contain good fats like monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats that help to lower LDL (low density lipoprotein) cholesterol blood levels also known as the bad cholesterol.  A high blood level of LDL is one of the leading causes of heart disease.

Eating a handful of nuts (1.5 ounces or 42.5 grams) is an ample daily amount for most nuts like walnuts, hazelnuts, pecans, almonds, peanuts, pistachios and some pine nuts.  Approximately 80% of a nut is fat and although it’s a good fat- there are calories to consider. Nuts are high in calories and should be eaten in moderation for this reason but evidence has shown that daily consumption of nuts may help to decrease the risk of heart disease.  Along with cutting back on foods high in saturated fats like eggs, dairy meats, replacing those foods with nuts can be a healthy choice for the heart. Don’t reduce or cancel out nuts’ nutritional value and heart healthy components by eating them covered in a sugary glaze, salt or chocolate though.

Macadamia nuts, pecans, almonds, hazelnuts, and many others seem to be comparatively heart healthy and nutritious. The humble peanut is included in the realm of nuts even though it isn’t technically a nut but rather a legume in the bean family. Containing high amounts of omega-3 fatty acids, walnuts are one of the most studied nuts.  Not only are they antioxidant rich but they provide a better quality of antioxidants than most other nuts.  Brazil nuts are the runner up to the walnut for best antioxidant content.  Antioxidants help to defend against harmful molecules called free radicals. Free radicals can cause cell damage which has been identified as having a role in heart disease. Although an ounce of English walnuts has 185 calories and 18 grams of (good) fat they also provide almost 2 grams of fiber and 4 grams of protein. Walnuts also enhance blood flow.

Good things come in small packages when it comes to nuts.  Nuts are nutrient dense powerhouses.   Portion control is the only thing to keep in mind. There are many ways to add nuts to a heart conscious diet. Here are a few ideas:

• Add nuts to breads, pancakes, waffles, and muffins.
• For more crunch try crumbled nuts on top of a salad with fat free dressing.
• Nuts add flavor to steamed veggies.
• Start the day with hot or cold cereal topped with nuts
• Sprinkle almonds on low fat yogurt
• Slivered almonds can go on anything from salads to chicken to even desserts

Doheny, Kathleen. “Walnut My Be Top Nut for Heart Health.” WebMD.com. 28 Mar. 2011. 6 May 2013.

http://www.webmd.com/food-recipes/news/20110328/walnut-may-be-top-nut-for-heart-health.

Zelman MPH, RD, LD,Kathleen M. “GO Nuts on Your Diet!”  WebMD.com.  20 May 2003. 6 May 2013.

http://www.webmd.com/diet/features/go-nuts-on-your-diet.

Nuts and Your Heart: Eating Nuts for Heart Health.  MayoClinic.com. 4 Feb. 2011. 1 May 2013.

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/nuts/HB00085.

Cholesterol is the fatty substance found in the blood and it’s crucial to building healthy cells. Having too much cholesterol, however, is associated with a higher risk of heart disease. The best supplements for high cholesterol varies from person to person, talk to your doctor about your best options.

Supplements, both herbal and nutritional, that may lower cholesterol include:

Niacin helps convert food to energy and helps support digestive-system functioning, as well as the skin and nerves. Niacin is found in foods including dairy products, lean meats, fish, nuts and eggs. In supplement form, niacin is taken orally to raise high-density lipoprotein, HDL or “good” cholesterol.

Garlic: According to some studies, garlic may decrease blood levels of total cholesterol by a few percentage points.

Guggulipid:  Guggulipid is the gum resin of the mukul myrrh tree. In clinical studies performed in India, guggulipid helped reduce blood levels of total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol.

Policosanol: May help regulate liver cholesterol synthesis and prevent re-absorption of LDL cholesterol.

Herbal products: The results of several studies suggest fenugreek seeds and leaves, artichoke leaf extract, yarrow, and holy basil all may help lower cholesterol. These and other commonly used herbs and spices—including ginger, turmeric, and rosemary—are being investigated for their potential beneficial effects relating to coronary disease prevention.

Fiber Intake: Increased consumption of dietary fiber, soy foods, omega-3 fatty acids, and plant compounds similar to cholesterol (phytosterols) may reduce LDL cholesterol, or bad cholesterol. Choosing lean cuts of meat can help you limit your intake of cholesterol. Fish makes a heart-healthy choice, being low in both saturated fat and cholesterol. Fiber in foods, specifically soluble fiber, can help prevent you from absorbing cholesterol and lower your numbers.

Fruits and vegetables are naturally cholesterol free and make a heart-healthy addition to your diet. They are also a good source of fiber, vitamin A, vitamin C and potassium.

Oils, as your source of fat, are cholesterol free and high in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fat. These unsaturated fats do not contribute to blood cholesterol levels like saturated fats. Heart-healthy choices include olive oil, canola oil, safflower oil and soy oil. Avoid trans-fats which are partially hydrogenated and hydrogenated vegetable oils. Eating foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids may also help lower cholesterol. Aim for at least two servings of fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, herring, tuna, and sardines per week. Other dietary sources of omega-3 fatty acids include flax seed and walnuts. Supplement sources include fish oil capsules, flaxseed and flax seed oil.

According to the American Heart Association, more than 2,150 Americans lose their lives to cardiovascular disease each day. Eating healthy is one of the most important things a person can do to maintain a healthy heart.  Making a diet adjustment can be done

in small steps and does not have to be accomplished overnight. Adding a few heart smart foods to the diet a little at a time is one way to do it.

Here are 5 of the top heart healthy foods to help you get started.

1. Good old oatmeal really helps to keep arteries clear. It’s a whole grain rich in folate, omega-3 fatty acids, potassium and full of fiber too which helps to lower LDL cholesterol.  Steel cut or coarse oatmeal are the better choices over the instant versions.  Top off oatmeal with a banana or other fruit for additional fiber.
2.  Nuts and berries are wonderful for vascular health.  Berries have lots of anti inflammatory properties that aid in lowering the risk for cancer and heart disease.  Raspberries, strawberries, and blue berries are good choices. Blueberries and strawberries have high levels of flavanoids that are also in blackberries and grapes. Berries are all easily added to a healthy diet.  Nuts like almonds, walnuts and macadamias provide tiny powerhouses of protein, minerals, vitamins, and fiber. They are also rich in omega-3 fatty acids and have plenty of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. Eating about four servings of un-oiled, non-salted nuts each week is recommended by the American Heart Association. Nuts are good as a breakfast topping or salad garnish. They are the perfect portable snack for between meals.  A small handful or 1.5 ounces will usually do, as too many nuts are high in calories.
3. Salmon is the ultra omega-3 fatty acids fish. It helps to decrease blood pressure and prevent clotting.  Eating 2 servings a week may diminish the risk of a heart attack by a third and is recommended by the American Heart Association.  Salmon contain a very strong antioxidant called cartenoid astaxanthia (a reddish orange cartenoid pigment) that gives salmon, trout and shrimp their pinkish color and has anti inflammatory characteristics that are heart healthy.  Wild salmon is better than farm raised when given a choice. Sardines mackerel, herring and albacore tuna are also good sources of omega-3s for boosting heart health. Omega-3s can be taken as a supplement also.
4.  Olive oil contains heart healthy fats. Look for extra virgin or virgin olive oil varieties. They are best because they are less processed. Olive oil is full of monounsaturated fats that can lower the risk of heart disease and decreases levels of bad LDL cholesterol.
5.  Black beans contain folate, magnesium, fiber and antioxidants. They help the body to maintain blood sugar levels and cholesterol levels.  Other legumes like chickpeas, kidney beans, or lentils contain lots of fiber. Legumes are a great source of soluble fiber, omega-3 fatty acids and calcium. Eating avocado may also help increase the amounts of heart healthy fats from monounsaturated fats. This food can raise good HDL cholesterol levels while helping to decrease bad LDL cholesterol. Avocados help to encourage absorption of lycopene and beta-carotene which are very good for the heart’s health.

A heart wise diet along with maintaining an active lifestyle can have a big impact on the heart’s health.

Astaxanthin. WebMD.com. 2009. 15 Jan. 2013.

[http://www.webmd.com/vitamins-supplements/ingredientmono-1063-ASTAXANTHIN.aspx?activeIngredientId=1063&activeIngredientName=ASTAXANTHIN].

10 Best Foods for Your Heart.  Health.com.2013. 14 Jan. 2013.

[http://www.health.com/health/gallery/0,,20307113,00.html].

Heart Disease: Eating A Heart-Healthy Diet.  WebMD.com. 1 May 2010. 13 Jan. 2012.

[http://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/eating-a-heart-healthy-diet#].

Strawberries, Blueberries, May Cut Heart Attack Risk In Women. 14 Jan. 2013. 15 Jan. 2013.

[http://newsroom.heart.org/news/strawberries-blueberries-may-cut-heart-attack-risk-in-women].

 Top Ten Things To Know About Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics. 12 Dec. 2012. 15 Jan. 2013.

[http://www.heart.org/idc/groups/ahamah-public/@wcm/@sop/@smd/documents/downloadable/ucm_447447.pdf].

Chocolate has become a subject of many studies for its heart health benefits because it is enjoyed by so many cultures across the world.  Research has shown that chocolate in moderation may have some healthful advantages. There are three types of chocolate; white, milk and dark. The flavanoids found in the cocoa used to make chocolate largely determines the health benefits in chocolate. The more cocoa a chocolate has, as with dark chocolate, the higher amount of flavanoids.  Flavanoids are a phytochemical found in the cacao beans and have antioxidant effects that help to decrease cell damage in the heart.  Chocolate also contains feel good chemicals like serotonin and phenylethylamine that can enhance mood and acts as a mild sexual stimulant.

Sadly, all chocolate is not the same, in respect to their health benefits.  Fine dark chocolate can contain about 65% or more cocoa while less expensive chocolates may have as little as 10% or less.    Choose solid dark chocolate when it comes to your health. It contains a higher amount of flavanoids because it’s made with more cocoa. The benefits include promoting a healthy heart, improved HDL, (the good cholesterol), a lower LDL (the bad cholesterol) and increased blood flow to the brain.  Other research supports that chocolate may lower the risk for diabetes and improve blood sugar & insulin sensitivity. Some worry that chocolates contain high amounts of caffeine. One ounce of chocolate typically has about 28 mg of caffeine while a regular cup of coffee can have between 95 to 140 mg of caffeine.  Chocolate does contain sugar but the tannins in chocolate have been shown to help prevent the bacteria responsible for tooth decay.  Eating chocolate helps to increase the antioxidants in the blood.  Like red wine or green tea, chocolate contains plant flavanoids. It can have up to 3 times more antioxidants than green tea though.

Moderation, as always, is key when eating chocolate.  Chocolate still contains calories, fat and sugar, even though its flavanoids are beneficial. A serving of about an ounce of solid dark chocolate which is equivalent to about 6 dark chocolate kisses, for about 150 calories is considered an ample serving. Too much chocolate can outweigh its benefits and result in weight gain.

So whether you are a lifelong addict to chocolate or just enjoy a piece of fine chocolate on an occasion, moderation is very important. Chocolate has transcended time and cultures for its sweet deliciousness and wellness properties and will likely continue to do so. So enjoy a piece.

The History of Chocolate Slideshow. WebMD.com. 23 Sept. 2011. 7 Dec. 2013.

http://www.webmd.com/sex-relationships/ss/slideshow-chocolate-history

Zelman, MPH, RD, LLC, Kathleen.  ”Chocolate’s Dark Secret.” WebMD.com. 30 Dec. 2008. 7 Dec. 2013.

http://www.webmd.com/sex-relationships/modern-love-8/chocolate-answers

Zeratsky, R.D., L.D., Katherine. “Healthy Chocolate: Dream or Reality?” Mayoclinic.com. 4 Feb. 2012. 8

Jan. 2013. , http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/healthy-chocolate/AN02060

Omega-3 fatty acids are nutrients that help increase human health and are termed essential because our bodies cannot make them and we must obtain them from food.  Omega 3 fatty acids are required for several normal body functions, including building cell membranes in the brain and controlling blood clotting. In addition, preliminary studies also show omega 3 fatty acids are associated with many health benefits including protection against cancer, autoimmune diseases, like rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, stroke and also heart disease.

Certain plant sources (including vegetable oils) such as canola oil, walnuts and flaxseed contain substantial amounts of the omega-3 fatty acid known as a-linolenic acid (ALA), which is only found in plants. In contrast, fish oils contain omega-3 fatty acids known as eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and do not contain any ALA. Flaxseed and other plant-derived oils do not contain any DHA and EPA, except for algae.

DHA is required in the brain for normal cognitive performance and memory and the eye for visual sharpness. Most of the omega-3 fatty acids found in brain tissue consists of mostly DHA with other omega-3 fatty acids, like ALA being found only in scant amounts. Human studies have shown that the body has limited ability to convert ALA to DHA.

The Mediterranean diet has been given a lot of attention in recent years.  The diet includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and fish (like salmon and sardines) while limiting unhealthy fats.  This diet includes higher levels of ALA and researches believe it is associated with the secondary prevention of coronary heart disease. A study by The Harvard School of Public Health studied 77,000 women over a period of 18 years.  The study suggests that increased dietary intakes of ALA may reduce the risk of sudden cardiac death (by up to 40%) but not other types of fatal heart disease.

So what are some vegetarian sources of omega fatty acids? Flax seed, chia seeds, walnuts and algae all fit the bill.  Flaxseed (flax) is a rich source of ALA and lignans is a highly recommended source of fiber. It also is a high quality potassium and protein. Lignans are antioxidants that have been reported to help prevent certain diseases such as cancer and heart disease. Flaxseed contains more lignans than other plant foods. Flaxseed can be added to almost any food by grinding the whole flaxseed. The seeds can be ground in a coffee grinder, food processor or blender, or you can buy ground or milled flaxseed at health food stores.  Because flaxseed is high in fat, the ground form can become rancid or spoil quickly and should be stored in the refrigerator.

Chia Seeds are another source of ALA that are also a good source of fiber, protein, calcium, magnesium and phosphorous. For thousands of years Chia seeds were used by the Aztecs as their main energy source. Unlike flaxseed, Chia seeds do not need to be ground before use. Pumpkin seeds, spinach, Brussels sprouts, salad greens, kale, and canola oil are also additional vegetarian sources of Omega-3 fats.

As always supplementation is available for you to obtain these essential nutrients.  You can find vegetarian sources of omega fatty acids as well as fish oil and flax seed and fish oil blends at The Institute for Healthy Living.

The World Health Organization has published their leading causes of death from killer diseases and conditions worldwide, while breaking down results of surveys from the 193 member countries by income level. Not surprising, lower income countries face enormous threats from communicable diseases. But somewhat surprisingly, most of the top diseases on every list are preventable.

The top causes of death worldwide are attributable to noncommunicable diseases such as various types of heart disease, cancers, lung diseases and diabetes. More than 36 million deaths were caused by these conditions in 2008, according to the WHO report. Specifically, 48% of these deaths were attributable to heart disease, 21% to some form of cancer, 12% caused by lung disease and about 3% being the result of diabetes.

As we’re all aware, many of these conditions can be mitigated or eliminated altogether, by reduction of certain health risks and risky behaviors such as smoking, lack of exercise and poor eating habits. From a worldwide perspective, infectious and communicable diseases like those associated with diarrheal diseases and HIV/AIDS, follow the above leading causes of death. Of course, many of these deaths can also be prevented by clean drinking water, better nutrition and hygiene, as well as safe-sex strategies.

As a reaction to the statistics revealed by the WHO report, the United Nation’s General Assembly will convene this month to develop an international plan to fight noncommunicable diseases facing the world’s population. No one expects the UN to save the world, as its members may suggest. But as is the case with communicating information, the task of adequately educating populations with regard to healthy lifestyle choices, is always something we can and should make a concerted effort to do.

The WHO has in the past, attempted to confront poor lifestyle choices by addressing the hazards of smoking. In 2008, the WHO issued recommendations to member countries which included smoking cessation programs, higher taxes on tobacco products, and publishing warnings on tobacco products and restrictions on tobacco advertising. These policy suggestions mimic those already in place in the U.S. and are beneficial in other areas of the world.

As for the higher income countries, 87% of all deaths are caused by noncommunicable diseases. Heart disease accounts for 35% of all deaths, with cancers at 23%, lung disease coming in at 7% and followed by diabetes at 3%.  In the WHO report, it’s noted that nearly 70% of Americans are either overweight or obese. We’re all going to go by some means. There’s no way around it. What we can do is increase our longevity by living healthier and happier lives. The plan is as simple as eating right, exercising, drinking more water and taking vitamins and supplements. Just follow the path and live longer.

So, what can we do to prevent heart disease from impacting ourselves and our families?  First, the standard answers to overall health: diet and exercise!  A nutritious diet high in fiber and low in cholesterol, triglycerides and trans fats, can give you a good start at warding off heart disease.  Also with a sensible exercise regimen, you can significantly improve your chances of heart-healthy living.  But what if those two simple components of healthy living don’t completely do the trick?  Fortunately, there are supplements available to enable the heart and cardiovascular system to operate at peak levels and prohibit cholesterol and plaque buildup in your blood stream.

Coenzyme Q10

CoQ10 is a naturally-occurring compound in every cell of the body and found in high concentrations in tissues and organs that require lots of energy.  Obviously, the heart requires vast levels of energy to function properly.  So, CoQ10 is essential for the heart.  Many people with high cholesterol take cholesterol-lowering drugs called ‘statins’ (Lipitor, Pravachol, etc.).  These drugs are effective in lowering “bad” LDL cholesterol but unfortunately, since they also inhibit production of some enzymes like CoQ10, the body becomes deficient.  That’s where CoQ10 supplements come in.  Supplements such as IHL Essentials CoQ10 replace the body’s lack of this essential enzyme, limiting the occurrence of congestive heart failure, angina and hypertension.  CoQ10 supplements have also been linked to weight loss, as a result of their beneficial effect on metabolism.

Ubiquinol

Ubiquinol is a reduced and active form of coenzyme Q10, specifically formulated for those over 40 who are affected by chronic disease.  This powerful antioxidant is significantly better absorbed into the body as we age.  Ubiquinol has been shown to increase levels of CoQ10 up to 777%!

Multivitamins and Antioxidants

Research has shown benefits to the vascular system with regular consumption of supplements containing vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, specific plant extracts and essential fatty acids.  These components assist in normal blood viscosity, movement and restoration.  Vita Logic products add these essential nutritious compounds to support overall health and resistance to cardiovascular disease.  Vita Logic Vein Formula is a complete vascular tonic formula, combining the best of antioxidants and herbal support to aid the body in the fight against heart disease.

So, there you have it!  Eat right, exercise and take your supplements!  Your heart will thank you!

The Good, the Bad and the Uh-oh
February is heart health month and I would be remiss if I didn’t take a moment to discuss cholesterol.

Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance made in the liver and other cells. It can also be found in some animal products like eggs, dairy products and meats. Cholesterol in itself isn’t bad. However it is essential to learn about the two types of cholesterol – the “good” (HDL) and “bad” (LDL) cholesterol – where they come from and why they’re important in our overall health, why we should monitor cholesterol levels and how to maintain a healthy ratio between the good and the bad.

We’ve known for a long time that elevated cholesterol levels are one of the major risk factors leading to heart disease, stroke and/or heart attack. Cholesterol comes from two sources: our bodies and diet. Our bodies naturally produce approximately 75% of blood cholesterol, and diet makes up the remaining 25%. Those of us who have a family history of elevated cholesterol levels should note that regular exercise, a balanced diet and losing excess weight can lower naturally-occurring cholesterol.

Unfortunately for us, the typical American diet is high in saturated and trans fats. Fat intake, processed meats and fried foods should all be limited in order to lower diet-contributed cholesterol. Experts say no more that 10% of our caloric intake should come from these types of fats. Dr. McBarron recommends diets like the Mediterranean diet, rich in fruits and vegetables, and a light daily exercise regime such as a 10-minute walk to help lower cholesterol. She adds that supplementation programs like Vita Logic Cholesterol Formula, Vita Logic Fish Oil, Red Yeast Rice and a good co-enzyme Q10 like IHL Essentials CoQ10, 120 mg also help maintain healthy cholesterol levels.

The only way we can measure our cholesterol levels is through a blood test. We want the good cholesterol, HDL, to be higher than the bad, LDL, because HDL helps keep the bad cholesterol from sticking to the walls of our arteries; thus preventing blockages or clogging. Most people don’t even know they have high cholesterol because they don’t experience symptoms. That is why it is so important to have levels tested and monitored. Generally speaking, total levels above 200mg/dL are considered high. A good HDL level should be above 60mg/dL, and LDL levels should stay between 100-129mg/dL. However, different labs may use different testing methods, thus providing varying results. Consult the test range provided in your report for normal levels.

The good news is we can minimize our risk of heart disease, stroke and heart attacks by understanding cholesterol levels and making good lifestyle changes. Let’s start taking better care of our health and cholesterol so that we can avoid that dreaded ‘uh-oh.’

In this video Dr. McBarron takes a look at research identifying a connection between alcohol consumption and Atrial Fibrillation that was published in the American Journal of Cardiology.

It will give you something to think about the next time you are tempted to reach for an alcoholic beverage.

Stress is a normal part of our everyday lives as we respond to both our physical and psychological environment. When working properly our stress response is what keeps us focused, energetic and alert. However when exposed to excessive amounts of stress we may develop serious health concerns in both the short and long term.

Of the many health conditions linked to stress the most serious is heart disease, which is the number one cause of death in America.

In this video Dr. McBarron covers research published in the Archives of Internal Medicine showing that by reducing the stress in our lives we can also reduce our risk of heart disease.

Anxiety is a general feeling of being worried and everyone experiences anxiety once in a while. People with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), however, feel anxious frequently or excessively, not necessarily because of a particular situation. For them, anxiety interferes with their daily activities. Follow my natural remedy suggestions to minimize and even eliminate your anxiety and reduce your risk of heart problems.

Many things can cause anxiety — for example, some medications may cause you to be anxious, or an underlying medical condition may prompt feelings of anxiety. Scientists aren’t sure what causes GAD, although they think that certain chemicals in the brain (called neurotransmitters), including serotonin and norepinephrine, may be involved. Genes, your environment, and your life situation may also contribute to anxiety levels.

 Among patients with heart disease, those additionally experiencing anxiety disorders appear to have a much higher risk of stroke, heart attack, heart failure and death, according to a recent report published in the Archives of General Psychiatry. It says that as many as 31% of patients with heart disease will also experience symptoms of anxiety.

Researchers evaluated over 1,000 patients with heart disease and evaluated their stress levels. They concluded that in patients with generalized anxiety disorders, there was a 74% increased risk of cardiovascular issues due to the hormone surges of distress.

Dr. McBarron’s Natural Remedy for Anxiety

Mind-body techniques, nutrition, exercise, and herbs may help reduce anxiety. Progressive muscle relaxation, diaphragmatic breathing, biofeedback, meditation, and self-hypnosis can help you relax and reduce your anxiety.

Several studies suggest that exercise is effective in reducing depression, and at least one 2007 study found that regular, intense exercise (running or playing football, for example) can also have a positive effect on anxiety. The benefits lasted up to 5 years.

Although there is no diet to relieve anxiety, eating stress fighting foods can help  keep your body well nourished and strong.  Some foods are thought to be more calming than others.  Avoid caffeine because it can make you feel restless. Avoid alcohol and nicotine as well. Eat more fresh vegetables, whole grains, and fruits. Keep your blood sugar at a steady level by eating frequent small meals that contain protein, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats.

Some evidence shows that acupuncture may help reduce symptoms of anxiety, especially when combined with behavioral therapies (including psychotherapy).

Vita Logic Mood Formula is a safe, natural supplement that can be taken to relieve the signs of anxiety and depression. It contains a synergistic blend of vitamins and herbs that are safe and effective in improving one’s quality of mood. Read Vita Logic Mood Formula online brochure for complete details including ingredients and testimonials.  Mood Formula is doctor recommended and has no known side effects or negative interactions with prescription medications.

Over 100 Condition Specific Natural Remedies

by Jan McBarron MD, ND (Health Headline News)

Lower Your LDL-Cholesterol and Reduce Your Risk of Heart Disease by eating a food loaded with health benefits.  This natural remedy is often thought to be too high in calories to include in a healthy diet but eaten in moderation this high fat food that should be a part of everyone’s diet even if you are trying to lose weight.

A high-fat food that’s good for your health? That’s not an oxymoron, its almonds. Almonds are high in monounsaturated fats, the same type of health-promoting fats as are found in olive oil, which have been associated with reduced risk of heart disease. Five large human epidemiological studies, including the Nurses Health Study, the Iowa Health Study, the Adventist Health Study and the Physicians Health Study, all found that nut consumption is linked to a lower risk for heart disease. Researchers who studied data from the Nurses Health Study estimated that substituting nuts for an equivalent amount of carbohydrate in an average diet resulted in a 30% reduction in heart disease risk. Researchers calculated even more impressive risk reduction–45%–when fat from nuts was substituted for saturated fats (found primarily found in meat and dairy products).

A study published in the British Journal of Nutrition indicates that when foods independently known to lower cholesterol, such as almonds, are combined in a healthy way of eating, the beneficial effects are additive. In this study of 12 patients with elevated LDL cholesterol levels, a diet containing almonds and other nuts, plant sterols (also found in nuts), soy protein, and soluble fiber (in high amounts in beans, oats, pears) reduced blood levels of all LDL fractions including small dense LDL (the type that most increases risk for cardiovascular disease) with near maximal reductions seen after only 2 weeks.

In addition to their cholesterol-lowering effects, almonds’ ability to reduce heart disease risk may also be partly due to the antioxidant action of the vitamin E found in the almonds, as well as to the LDL-lowering effect of almonds’ monounsaturated fats.

Because of the fiber and protein that they contain, almonds make you feel full. Also, some research has actually shown that the fiber in almonds blocks some of the fat from being absorbed into your body. When possible, eat both the meat and the skin of almonds. The beneficial flavanoids that are found in the skin combine with vitamin E in the meat of the nut to double the amount of antioxidants when you eat them together.

Just remember: a handful of nuts per day is beneficial, but a can per day is not.

Did you know that the almond is actually a seed? It’s true! This seed, besides being an excellent source of vitamin E and manganese, is also a good source of magnesium, copper, phosphorus, and riboflavin (vitamin B2). While almonds do contain some fat, it contains heart-healthy monounsaturated fat.

Among older men, having a high testosterone level is associated with an increased risk of heart disease and heart attack.

These findings come as a result of the U.S. National Institutes of Health study that recently tracked men over the age of 65 with a four year follow up. It was noted that for men with the highest level of testosterone, they suffered twice the risk of coronary artery disease than men with the lowest testosterone levels.

It has recently become more popular that as men get older they begin taking testosterone hormones to help slow the aging process and increase libido. This parallels what women did for decades as they went through menopause. It has been documented that women taking HRT are in danger of cancer, stroke, blood clots, Alzheimer’s and many other health problems. Some are upset that the medical trend has turned away from giving women HRT. It appears we are making the same mistake now with men. Early studies are now indicating that men taking testosterone, or men with high levels of testosterone, are at risk for heart attack.

Dr. McBarron’s Recommendation

Libido Max - Libido Max is an all-natural herbal supplement that stimulates sexual desire for both men and women. Epimedium, also known as horny goat weed, has been used in traditional eastern cultures for centuries as an aphrodisiac. It supports high levels of cholinergic neurotransmitters associated with sexual arousal. Recent studies have shown that Epimedium has promising signs of becoming a natural alternative to Viagra.

Over 100 Condition Specific Natural Recommendations from Dr.McBarron:  Dr. McBarron’s Natural Recommendations

Watch this short video as Dr. McBarron describes exactly how the heart works:

Although the beneficial effects of antioxidants have been well established, a recent study has now shed light on how antioxidants improve hormonal action in obese individuals with metabolic syndrome. Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of metabolic risk factors including problems with blood sugar, blood pressure, cholesterol, abdominal fat and more. Metabolic syndrome significantly increases a person’s risk of developing diabetes, heart disease, stroke and early death. It has long been recognized that metabolic syndrome primarily occurs in people who are overweight and obese.

Recent research reveals the mechanism whereby antioxidants are helpful for people with metabolic syndrome. Antioxidants have been demonstrated to improve insulin sensitivity, therefore making the individual more receptive to the benefits of insulin. In metabolic syndrome, most individuals are insulin resistant; therefore anything that naturally improves and enhances insulin sensitivity is welcomed.

Researchers studied both men and women, ages 18-66 years of age, who were obese and insulin resistant. They placed them on similar diets, however one group was given additional antioxidants. It was noted that the individuals receiving antioxidants had a significant decrease in insulin resistance and improvement in insulin response.

Researchers concluded that increasing antioxidant levels in people with insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome is a valuable tool in their disease management. Antioxidants are traditionally found in fruits and vegetables, and certainly dietary guidelines are encouraged, however supplements of antioxidants should not be overlooked.

Vita Logic Antioxidant Formula is a natural blend of goji, noni, acai, mangosteen and resveratrol. These are known as the “super fruits” because they are so high on the ORAC scale. The ORAC scale is a measurement of how well the nutrient quenches free radicals which cause aging and diseases. Antioxidant Formula by Vita Logic is one of the best antioxidant supplements available. It has no known side effects and is recommended by doctors for anyone wishing to receive the benefits of antioxidant protection, including decreased risk of cancer, diabetes, stroke, heart disease and premature aging.

Over 100 Condition Specific Natural Recommendations from Dr. McBarron:  Natural Recommendations

Eating Nuts May Reduce Risk of Metabolic Syndrome

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TUESDAY, Aug. 24 (HealthDay News) — People who suffer migraines with aura are at increased risk of dying from heart disease and stroke, but the individual risk for a migraine sufferer is low, two new studies show.

Auras — temporary visual or sensory disturbances that occur before or during a migraine headache — affect about one in five migraine sufferers, according to the U.S. National Women’s Health Information Center.

Both studies were published in the Aug. 25 online edition of the BMJ.

In one study, Larus Gudmundsson from the University of Iceland and colleagues examined the impact of mid-life migraines in 18,725 men and women born between 1907 and 1935 who took part in research (the Reykjavik Study) that was launched in 1967 to study heart disease in Iceland.

Based on their analysis of a 26-year follow-up of the study participants, Gudmundsson’s team concluded that men and women who suffered migraine with aura were at increased risk of dying from heart disease and stroke, as well as all other causes. Those with migraine without aura were not at increased risk.

In addition, the researchers found that women with migraine with aura are also at increased risk of dying from causes other than cardiovascular disease or cancer.

The individual risk faced by migraine sufferers with aura is low and efforts to reduce their risk of heart disease-related death should focus on eliminating conventional risk factors, including high blood pressure, smoking and high cholesterol, the study authors said.

Additional research is needed to learn more about the link between migraine with aura and increased risk of death from cardiovascular disease and other causes, the team stated in a news release from the journal’s publisher.

“Finally, studies are needed to determine if reducing the frequency of attacks with migraine preventive treatment might reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease,” Gudmundsson and colleagues concluded.

The second study found that women who have migraines with aura are at increased risk for hemorrhagic stroke (bleeding in the brain). Hemorrhagic strokes account for about 20 percent of all strokes. However, Dr. Tobias Kurth and colleagues at the National Institute of Health and Medical Research in France said the risk remains low and further research is required to confirm their findings.

It’s unclear whether doctors should inform patients about the increased risk of death associated with migraine with aura, Dr. Klaus Berger, of the University of Muenster in Germany, wrote in an editorial accompanying the first study.

Berger believes that “for many people the information will cause an unwarranted amount of anxiety, although others may use the opportunity to modify their lifestyle and risk factors accordingly.”

Doctors “must carefully weigh the decision whether or not to discuss the risks related to this condition,” Berger concluded.

More information

The U.S. National Women’s Health Information Center has more about migraine.

August 16,  2010
Antagonistic people, particularly those who are competitive and aggressive, may be increasing their risk of heart attack or stroke, researchers report in Hypertension: Journal of the American Heart Association.

Researchers for the U.S. National Institute on Aging (NIA), a component of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), studied 5,614 Italians in four villages and found that those who scored high for antagonistic traits on a standard personality test had greater thickening of the neck (carotid) arteries compared to people who were more agreeable. Thickness of neck artery walls is a risk factor for heart attack and stroke.

Three years later, those who scored higher on antagonism or low agreeableness — especially those who were manipulative and quick to express anger — continued to have thickening of their artery walls. These traits also predicted greater progression of arterial thickening.

Those who scored in the bottom 10 percent of agreeableness and were the most antagonistic had about a 40 percent increased risk for elevated intima-media thickness, a measure of arterial wall thickness. The effect on artery walls was similar to having metabolic syndrome — a known risk factor for cardiovascular disease.

“People who tend to be competitive and more willing to fight for their own self interest have thicker arterial walls, which is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease,” said Angelina Sutin, Ph.D., lead author of the study and a postdoctoral fellow with the National Institute on Aging, NIH, in Baltimore, Md. “Agreeable people tend to be trusting, straightforward and show concern for others, while people who score high on antagonism tend to be distrustful, skeptical and at the extreme cynical, manipulative, self-centered, arrogant and quick to express anger.”

The SardiNIA Study of Aging, supported by the NIA, was conducted in the Sardinia region of Italy. Participants’ ages ranged from 14 to 94 years (average 42) and 58 percent were female. They answered a standard personality questionnaire, which included six facets of agreeableness: trust, straightforwardness, altruism, compliance, modesty and tender mindedness.

Researchers used ultrasound to determine the intima-media thickness of the carotid arteries in the neck at five points. Participants also were screened for other risk factors for cardiovascular disease such as high blood pressure, cholesterol levels, triglycerides, fasting glucose and diabetes.

In general, men had more thickening of the artery walls. But if women were antagonistic, their risk quickly caught up with the men, Sutin said. “Women who scored high on antagonism related traits tended to close the gap, developing arterial thickness similar to antagonistic men. Whereas women with agreeable traits had much thinner arterial walls than men with agreeable traits, antagonism had a much stronger association with arterial thickness in women.”

Though thickening of the artery walls is a sign of age, young people with antagonistic traits already had thickening of the artery wall, she said. Lifestyle factors may contribute, but the association persisted after controlling for risk factors such as smoking.

Physicians may want to examine antagonism and other facets of personality traits when considering risk factors such as smoking, weight, cholesterol levels and diabetes, Sutin said. The results of this study could also help determine who might benefit from targeted interventions such as providing coping mechanisms and anger management.

“People may learn to control their anger and learn ways to express anger in more socially acceptable ways,” Sutin said.

The findings may apply to others in the world, whether they live in smaller towns or cosmopolitan areas, she said. “This may not be unique to Italians.”

August 12, 2010
Fast food outlets could provide statin drugs free of charge so that customers can neutralise the heart disease dangers of fatty food, researchers at Imperial College London suggest in a new study published this week.

Statins reduce the amount of unhealthy “LDL” cholesterol in the blood. A wealth of trial data has proven them to be highly effective at lowering a person’s heart attack risk.

In a paper published in the Sunday 15 August issue of the American Journal of Cardiology, Dr Darrel Francis and colleagues calculate that the reduction in cardiovascular risk offered by a statin is enough to offset the increase in heart attack risk from eating a cheeseburger and a milkshake.

Dr Francis, from the National Heart and Lung Institute at Imperial College London, who is the senior author of the study, said: “Statins don’t cut out all of the unhealthy effects of burgers and fries. It’s better to avoid fatty food altogether. But we’ve worked out that in terms of your likelihood of having a heart attack, taking a statin can reduce your risk to more or less the same degree as a fast food meal increases it.”

One statin, simvastatin, is already available in low doses (10mg) over the counter at pharmacies without a prescription. Other statins are so far only prescribed by doctors, and limited by cost to patients at particular risk of heart attack or stroke. However, the cost of the tablets has fallen sharply in recent years (from ~£40/month to ~£1.50/month), such that the cost to the NHS of seeing a doctor is much greater than the cost of the tablet.

“It’s ironic that people are free to take as many unhealthy condiments in fast food outlets as they like, but statins, which are beneficial to heart health, have to be prescribed,” Dr Francis said.

Statins have among the best safety profiles of any medication. A very small proportion of regular statin users experience significant side effects, with problems in the liver and kidneys reported in between 1 in 1,000 and 1 in 10,000 people.

“Everybody knows that fast food is bad for you, but people continue to eat it because it tastes good. We’re genetically programmed to prefer high-calorie foods, and sadly fast food chains will continue to sell unhealthy foods because it earns them a living.

“It makes sense to make risk-reducing supplements available just as easily as the unhealthy condiments that are provided free of charge. It would cost less than 5p per customer – not much different to a sachet of ketchup.

“When people engage in risky behaviours like driving or smoking, they’re encouraged to take measures that minimise their risk, like wearing a seatbelt or choosing cigarettes with filters. Taking a statin is a rational way of lowering some of the risks of eating a fatty meal.”

Studies have shown a clear link between total fat intake and blood cholesterol, which is strongly linked to heart disease. Recent evidence suggests that trans fats, which are found in high levels in fast food, are the component of the Western diet that is most dangerous in terms of heart disease risk.

Dr Francis and his colleagues used data from a previous large cohort study to quantify how a person’s heart attack risk increases with their daily intake of total fat and trans fat. He compared this with the decrease in risk from various statins, based on a meta-analysis of seven randomised controlled trials.

The results showed that most statin regimes are able to compensate for the relative risk increase from eating a cheeseburger and a small milkshake.

The researchers note that studies should be conducted to assess the potential risks of allowing people to take statins freely, without medical supervision. They suggest that a warning on the packet should emphasise that no tablet can substitute for a healthy diet, and advise people to consult their doctor for more advice.

More information: E.A. Ferenczi et al. “Can a statin neutralise the cardiovascular risk of unhealthy dietary choices?” American Journal of Cardiology, 15 August 2010

WASHINGTON – Federal health scientists have panned a GlaxoSmithKline study that the company used to defend the safety of its embattled diabetes drug Avandia, a once blockbuster-seller that has fallen out of favor because of potential ties to heart attacks.

The Food and Drug Administration posted an exhaustive 700-page review of Avandia on Friday ahead of a meeting next week to decide whether the drug should stay on the market.

The FDA finds itself in a difficult position that’s all too familiar: reviewing a drug approved a decade ago that now appears tied to deadly side effects. Experts say the FDA’s predicament is a result of shifting standards for the agency: increased scrutiny on safety and stepped-up pressure from Capitol Hill.

The FDA reviewed dozens of studies of Avandia, including one Glaxo has pointed to as proof of the drug’s safety. But an FDA reviewer said the study was plagued by “serious flaws” and actually supports the case against Avandia.

The drug works by increasing the body’s sensitivity to insulin, a key protein needed for digestion that diabetics don’t adequately produce.

People with diabetes are unable to properly break down carbohydrates, either because their bodies do not produce enough insulin or because of resistance to insulin. They are at higher risk for heart attacks, kidney problems, blindness and other serious complications.

Avandia was Glaxo’s third best-selling drug in 2006 with U.S. revenue of $2.2 billion, according to health care statistics firm IMS Health. But safety concerns swirling around the drug have pummeled sales over the last three years, with sales falling 75 percent to $520 million last year.

In 2007 an analysis of dozens of studies first linked the drug to heart attacks. The FDA responded by adding a warning label to the drug later that year.

Glaxo, based in London, has argued for years that Avandia’s safety should be assessed only based on clinical trials, considered the gold standard of medical research.

But the FDA reviewer said Glaxo’s chief trial “was inadequately designed and conducted to provide any reassurance” about the heart safety of Avandia.

The FDA holds a special two-day meeting starting Tuesday to help decide what course of action to take. A panel of outside physicians will consider a range of recommendations including:

- Adding more warning labels.

- Limiting which doctors can prescribe the drug.

- Pulling the drug from the market.

The FDA is not required to follow the advice of its outside panels, though it usually does.

The agency has been down this road before. In 2007 the FDA assembled the same group of experts to vote on the same drug. The group voted 22-1 in favor of keeping Avandia on the market.

New data on Avandia’s risks and pressure from politicians have prompted the agency to re-examine the drug’s safety.

Despite the reams of information posted online, the FDA’s main problem remains one of too little data.

Avandia, like many other drugs of the 1990s, was approved based on relatively small studies in several thousand patients. While those studies were sufficient to show the drug helped control blood sugar levels – the key measure for diabetes drugs – they were not large enough to detect all of the drug’s potential side effects.

“The problem is the drug wasn’t studied in enough patients up front to know whether it causes serious cardiovascular events,” said Dr. David Kessler, former FDA commissioner and now a professor at University of California at San Francisco. “And chasing that question after millions of prescriptions have been written leads to a lot of confusion.”

Since 2009 the FDA has required longer, larger studies of diabetes drugs that include more high-risk patients.

Scientists have tried to get an accurate picture of Avandia’s risks by pooling hundreds of thousands of data points from various sources.

The most recent such analysis was published last month and suggested Avandia is more likely to cause strokes and heart-related death than a rival drug, Actos, made by Japan-based Takeda Pharmaceuticals.

The paper’s chief author, Dr. David Graham, an FDA scientist who wants the pill banned, estimated as many as 100,000 heart-related problems may have been caused by Avandia.

The study analyzed medical records of more than 225,000 elderly Medicare patients.

Graham first came to prominence for his role in publicizing the risks of the Merck painkiller Vioxx, which was pulled in 2004 from the market after showing links to heart attacks and strokes. He argued that lives could have been saved if the FDA had acted more swiftly.

The legacy of Vioxx and the political firestorm that followed will hang over next week’s deliberations.

Lawmakers on Capitol Hill already have painted Avandia as a test of the agency’s competence and courage.

Senate Finance Committee ranking Republican Charles Grassley helped start the review of Avandia with an investigation that concluded GlaxoSmithKline tried to downplay the risks of its drug. Last week Grassley said the drug should be pulled from the market.

But former FDA officials say such political prodding hurts the agency’s mission.

“Public policy decisions don’t get made in a vacuum, and that’s a reality of FDA decision making that everyone has to recognize,” said Mary Pendergast, a former FDA deputy commissioner who now consults for companies. “But when members of Congress who are not scientists tell the FDA what to decide, I think that’s hard for the FDA.”

by Ethan A. Huff
August 7 2010

(NaturalNews) Emergency responders in New York City will soon start to use a new “cooling” therapy on cardiac arrest patients that will help to decrease their likelihood of brain damage. Therapeutic hypothermia, as it is being called, works to lower patients’ body temperatures so their brains will require less oxygen, resulting in less potential damage to brain cells.

In January 2009, twenty hospitals in New York City first began using therapeutic hypothermia on patients. Today, 43 of the 50 city hospitals are using it.

The therapy involves applying cold packs to patients, injecting chilled saline solutions into their bodies, as well as some other more advanced techniques.

According to a New York Times article, the goal of therapeutic hypothermia is to lower injured patients’ body temperatures six degrees for 24 hours in order to slow the body down and give it time to recover.

“We know that cooling your body’s temperature slows everything down,” explained Salvatore J. Cassano, New York City fire commissioner. “It brings your body out of that panic mode, and it actually reduces your body’s need for blood. That buys us time.”

The practice has been so successful that now the city wants to bring the practice on the road, and is currently training first responders to be able to apply the technique in an ambulance. In those critical moments after a patient is revived, responders will be able to do everything possible to prevent further injuries by slowing that patient’s body reaction.

Since first being applied in hospital settings, therapeutic hypothermia has increased cardiac patient survival rates from 10 percent to 16.7 percent.

Frutarom has launched a black garlic extract, which the firm says can be used in dietary supplements and functional foods to deliver garlic’s heart health benefits without its characteristic bad breath effects.

The new ingredient, which is part of the firm’s EFLA line, is derived from the fermentation of fresh garlic bulbs and is said to show “comparable” benefits for cardiovascular health to fresh garlic.

Production process

Otherwise known as fermented garlic, black garlic is produced by enzymatic fermentation.

“It’s not true fermentation as there is no yeast or fungus involved – some people refer to it as an ‘aging process’,” said Adeline Prevost, Frutarom’s Health product manager. “Our ingredient is produced more via an ‘auto-fermentation’ process, as it’s based on the enzymes that are naturally present in the fresh garlic.”

The garlic bulbs take one months to age, she explained, then they are dried and processed for the extract to be obtained.

Around 6g of fermented garlic is needed to obtain 1g of black garlic extract, meaning that the recommended daily intake of 660mg is equivalent to 4g of the fermented bulbs.

Benefits

Frutarom says that a number of published studies identify the health benefits of black garlic, which include a positive impact on blood pressure and blood lipids, as well as immunomodulatory activity, retardation of arterial calcification and acceleration of wound healing.

The firm has also conducted one (unpublished) study on its branded Black Garlic Extract EFLA 451, which supports its heart health benefits. The in-vitro study, which used plasma from healthy humans) demonstrated that the ingredient can “inhibit thrombocyte aggregation caused by various organic triggers”. This, says Frutarom, contributes to cardiovascular health because aggregating platelets have a negative effect on blood circulation as they increase the risk of capillary blockage and blood clots, and can therefore lead to thrombosis.

In addition, Frutarom said that black garlic has been shown to have a higher antioxidant potency than fresh garlic, which in part explains its cardiovascular benefits. The firm cited an article from Nutrition Research and Practice (2009), which demonstrated that the TEAC (Trolox-equivalence antioxidant assay) value for aged black garlic was 59 micromol/g compared to 13 micromol/g for fresh garlic (based on wet weight).

No bad breath

According to Frutarom, which also supplies garlic extract derived from fresh garlic, the distinctive advantage of its new ingredient is that it does not cause bad breath or body odour.

This is because the compounds that cause bad breath – alliin and allicin – are destroyed by the enzymatic activity in the fermentation process, explained Prevost.

However, a study published in 2007 in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences indicated that the allicin in garlic is actually responsible for some of its health benefits. The study indicated that allicin produces hydrogen sulphide, which signals blood vessels to relax, increases blood flow and boosts heart health.

Prevost agreed that some of garlic’s heart benefits are linked to its allicin content, but said that other studies have shown that “in fermented garlic there are also some compounds that deliver health benefits.”

“But fermented garlic has a very different profile to fresh garlic, so we’re working on identifying which compounds in black garlic are responsible for delivering the health benefits” she said.

Applications

Frutarom said its black garlic ingredient can be used in traditional nutraceutical supplements, such as tablets and capsules, but also in liquid applications with a heart health positioning, instead of or in combination with standard garlic.

Without the pungency of fresh garlic, the fermented variety is said to have a sweet, mild taste and smell, similar to that of oven-roasted garlic.

Frutarom says the ingredient’s mild taste and good water solubility also make it suitable for a variety of savoury and sweet food applications.

While many believe keeping the brain active is the key to keeping it from going to mush, that isn’t the only thing that is a contributing factor. There is now a direct link between a healthy heart and a healthy active brain.

Research conducted by a team from Boston University and published in this week’s issue of Circulation, showed that blood volume had a correlation to the size and activity of the brain. Studying approximately 1,500 mostly heart-healthy individuals (substantial cardiovascular issues precluded inclusion in this study), researchers found that those hearts that pumped less blood were associated with brains that appeared older and smaller in size. Even those individuals with a normal cardiac index and blood volume showed signs of early aging in brain scans.

Lead researcher Dr Angela Jefferson said: “These participants are not sick people. A very small number have heart disease. The observation that nearly a third of the entire sample has low cardiac index and that lower cardiac index is related to smaller brain volume is concerning and requires further study.”

While the average age of participants was 61, even the younger members of the study showed a link between reduced blood volume and an older, smaller brain. Poor cardiac output aged the brain by nearly two years on average, according to researchers. However, the researchers did note that participants with smaller brain volumes on magnetic resonance imaging did not show obvious clinical signs of reduced brain function. This may mean that reduced blood volume and reduced brain volume may be early signs that something could or will go awry in the future.

Brain shrinkage, particularly in the hippocampus, is associated with dementia.There are other causes of brain shrinkage, such as the use of hormone replacement therapy [1]. Current studies show that hormone therapy is linked to brain shrinkage, but not the small brain lesions which are usually the first signs of cerebrovascular disease. Low levels, as well as severe deficiencies, of vitamin B12 [2] also contribute to brain atrophy. And studies have shown that obesity can age the brain and reduce brain tissue [3].

No one can dispute the restorative value of sleep, but not only is a lack of sleep detrimental, so is getting too much of it. In fact, studies have conclusively shown a link between long and short sleep duration and both diabetes and hypertension.

Now, a new study conducted by the West Virginia school of Medicine shows that sleep duration has an impact on cardiovascular health.  Dr. Anoop Shankar, associate professor in the Department of Community Medicine led the team which discovered the association.

Study Details

The team looked at data collected in the 2005 National Health Interview Survey; more than 30,000 adults over the age of 18 were analyzed.

According to the journal Sleep, which is currently publishing the study, 2,146 of the participants had cardiovascular disease, including myocardial infarction, angina, and stroke.   Eight percent of them claimed to get 5 hours of sleep or less per night, while 9% got more than 9 hours.

The researchers found that those who slept more than 9 hours per night were 1.5 times more likely to experience heart attack and stroke, while adults under the age of 60 who slept only 5 hours had a threefold increased risk over those who consistently got 7 hours per night.

In the study abstract, the team concludes, “Compared with sleep duration of 7h, there was a positive association between both shorter and longer sleep durations and CVD in a represetative sample of US adults.  These results suggest that sleep duration may be an important marker of CVD.”

Sleep Statistics

And, speaking of sleep, according to the Sleep Research Society’s Spring 2010 bulletin, there are significant differences between varying ethnic groups when it comes to nocturnal rest.   The National Sleep Foundation conducted a poll in March of 2010 among Asians, African-Americans, Hispanics and Whites; here’s some of what they discovered:

*Asians report getting the “best” sleep
*African-Americans get the least amount of sleep, but also say they don’t need as much
*Hispanics are most likely to lose sleep over financial worries and personal/relationship problems
*Whites are more likely than other ethnic groups to sleep with a pet.

by S. L. Baker
July 22 2010
(NaturalNews) Antioxidants are substances that protect cells against the effects of free radicals — molecules produced when the body breaks down food or is exposed to environmental toxins and radiation. Free radicals are believed to play a role in heart disease, cancer and other disorders. So it makes sense that antioxidants could help protect or even treat many health problems.

However, some poorly designed studies have given antioxidants mixed results (http://www.naturalnews.com/023357_p…) and resulted in the mainstream media reporting that antioxidants are virtually worthless. But new research provides hard evidence that taking antioxidant supplements long-term produces dramatic benefits in people with multiple cardiovascular risk factors.

That’s the conclusion of a randomized, controlled trial of vitamin C, vitamin E, coenzyme Q10 and selenium capsules. The research results, just reported in BioMed Central’s journal Nutrition and Metabolism, show these dietary antioxidants produce multiple positive effects on sugar and fat metabolism, blood pressure and arterial flexibility (which allows blood to move freely through the body).

The study was conducted by scientist Reuven Zimlichman and his research team at Wolfson Medical Center in Israel. They randomly divided 70 high blood pressure patients into two groups. One group was given antioxidants supplements and the other took placebo capsules for six months. Those taking the antioxidants received vitamin C (1000 mg/day), vitamin E (400 i.u/day), coenzyme Q10 (120 mg/day) and selenium (200 mcg/day).

Tests at the beginning of the trial, after three months, and again after six months documented that patients in the antioxidant group had marked improvements in their cardiovascular health. They had more elastic arteries and better blood sugar levels. In addition, their cholesterol profiles were healthier with a significant increase in HDL, the so-called “good”, heart-protective cholesterol. In fact, the researchers concluded “antioxidant supplements have the potential to alleviate atherosclerotic damage..”

“Antioxidant supplementation significantly increased large and small artery elasticity in patients with multiple cardiovascular risk factors. This beneficial vascular effect was associated with an improvement in glucose and lipid metabolism as well as significant decrease in blood pressure,” Dr. Zimlichman said in a statement to the media. “The findings of the present study justify investigating the overall clinical impact of antioxidant treatment in patients with multiple cardiovascular risk factors.”

More hopeful news for heart patients: another study by Dr. Zimlichman and colleagues published in the June issue of the Journal of Cardiovascular Pharmacology, found that taking the amino acid L-arginine long-term also helped people with multiple cardiovascular risk factors. In this randomized, placebo-controlled trial, 90 patients were assigned to receive either oral L-arginine capsules or placebo capsules. After six months, tests indicated those taking L-arginine had improved vascular health — including a significant decrease in systolic blood pressure.

July 21, 2010

University of Alberta research has discovered heart failure patients with more muscle have the potential to increase their length of life.

Antigone Oreopoulos, a researcher from the U of A’s School of Public Health, studied 140 patients with heart failure. Study participants underwent a special scan to measure their muscle mass and body fat.

Oreopoulos’ research found that having more muscle was associated with better nutritional status and lower severity of heart failure, while higher body fat was associated with increased inflammation and reduced exercise capacity. This suggests that in patients with heart failure having more muscle mass and lower fat may be beneficial.

Oreopoulos’ research was published this month in the journal Mayo Clinic Proceedings.

The study also discovered that testing just the body mass index (BMI) of heart failure patients doesn’t accurately measure their body fat status. Oreopoulos found 41 per cent of the participants were inaccurately classified by BMI. Many who had a high body weight but not high body fat were mislabelled as obese and others who did not weigh a lot but had a high amount of body fat were mislabelled as normal by BMI. Oreopoulos says this research has direct implications for weight management guidelines and adds that to date there is a shortage of evidence to guide a clinician’s decision about when to recommend weight loss to a patient with heart failure.

While this study provides potential explanations of how muscle and fat could possibly play a role in the survival of heart failure patients, Oreopoulos says there isn’t enough evidence to make specific recommendations. Her team plans to conduct treatment studies that examine the effects of intentional weight gain and loss on the survival and quality of life in these patients.

July 21, 2010

In the general population, the more ‘good’ cholesterol that a person has, the less likely they are to suffer a cardiovascular event. But new research shows that if a person has their levels of ‘bad’ cholesterol substantially lowered with high-dose statin treatment, then levels of ‘good’ cholesterol in that person may no longer bear any relation to their remaining cardiovascular risk. The findings, based on the JUPITER study, are reported in an Article Online First and in an upcoming Lancet. The Article is by Professor Paul Ridker, Center for Cardiovascular Disease Prevention, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA, and colleagues.

In the JUPITER trial, patients with average to low levels of bad cholesterol received the potent statin ‘Rosuvastatin’ at a dose of 20 mg per day, which lowered their concentrations of bad cholesterol, in many cases substantially, to those typically seen in Aboriginal populations but rarely seen in Western patients. After a median follow-up of 1•9 years in JUPITER (maximum 5 years), treatment with rosuvastatin was associated with a 54% reduction in myocardial infarction, a 48% reduction in stroke, a 46% reduction in revascularisation, a 43% reduction in venous thromboembolism, and a 20% reduction in total mortality. In this new work, the authors assessed whether residual risk after initiation of high-dose statin treatment was related to baseline or on-treatment concentrations of good cholesterol.

For the patients in the JUPITER trial who were given placebo, concentrations of good cholesterol remained predictive of cardiovascular risk, with the patients in the highest 25% of levels of good cholesterol at around half the risk of suffering a cardiovascular event as those in the lowest 25%. By contrast, among the JUPITER patients given rosuvastatin, no significant relationships were noted between concentrations of good cholesterol and residual cardiovascular risk.

The authors conclude: “Although measurement of HDL-cholesterol concentration is useful as part of initial cardiovascular risk assessment, HDL-cholesterol concentrations are not predictive of residual vascular risk among patients treated with potent statin therapy who attain very low concentrations of LDL cholesterol.”

However, the authors add that finding out whether or not raising HDL cholesterol improves cardiac outcomes after taking statin therapy remains a very important issue that can only be addressed by randomised trials of potent, efficacious cholesterol raising agents. Such studies would assess whether substantially raising HDL cholesterol levels would provide additional cardiovascular benefit beyond statin therapy.

In an accompanying Comment, Dr Derek Hausenloy, The Hatter Cardiovascular Insititute, University College London, UK, and colleagues say: “With the advent of more potent drugs, the issue of whether raising ‘good’ cholesterol concentrations reduces cardiovascular risk in patients with very low ‘bad’ cholesterol concentrations needs to be tested in clinical studies.”

People with a larger waistline and high triglyceride levels are at increased risk of coronary heart disease, according to a research study published in CMAJ (Canadian Medical Association Journal).

The concept of a hypertriglyceridemic waist phenotype, defined by high triglyceride levels and an increased waistline, had been previously proposed as a marker of metabolic abnormalities that could help predict increased risk of coronary heart disease.

The CMAJ study examined whether a hypertriglyceridemic waist type could be a useful, cost-effective screening tool to identify people at risk of type 2 diabetes and coronary heart disease. It looked at a group of 21 787 men and women aged 45 to 79 years living in Norfolk, United Kingdom involved in the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC)-Norfolk study. Out of the total sample, 1295 men and 814 women developed coronary heart disease during the follow up period of up to 8 to 10 years.

In both men and women, increased waist circumference (even without higher triglyceride levels) and increased triglyceride levels (even without higher waist circumference) increased the risk of developing coronary heart disease. However, the key finding of the study was that the combined presence of increased waist circumference and increased triglyceride levels was associated with the highest risk of coronary heart disease.

“Among individuals classified at low coronary heart disease risk based on the absence of traditional risk factors, the presence of the hypertriglyceridemic waist is predictive of a substantially increased risk of coronary heart disease,” write Drs. Benoît Arsenault and Jean-Pierre Després, Laval University, Quebec City, who have collaborated with investigators from the Netherlands and from the United Kingdom to conduct this study. “Although hypertriglyceridemic waist is a marker of excess intra-abdominal adiposity, it cannot be used on its own to properly assess coronary heart disease risk.”

Provided by Canadian Medical Association Journal

NEW YORK (Reuters Health) – Very high cholesterol levels in kids may decline over time even without intervention, researchers from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have found.

The findings add to an ongoing debate over the importance of high cholesterol in children, and whether cholesterol-lowering drugs are appropriate when changes in diet and physical activity don’t cut it.

Such drugs, including statins, are used in adults to reduce the risk of heart disease, a major killer in Western countries. But it isn’t clear if they also work for kids.

The new study, published in the journal Pediatrics, shows that after a few years, some youngsters with high cholesterol would no longer be considered for drug treatment according to guidelines.

While this isn’t an argument to abandon drug therapy altogether, doctors shouldn’t jump the gun when treating kids for cholesterol, the researchers caution.

“Both in kids and in adults there is quite a bit of variability over time,” David S. Freedman of the CDC told Reuters Health. “People with very, very high cholesterol are likely to be those that are having a bad cholesterol day.”

“My paper emphasizes that you probably need at least two or three measurements to screen out kids who are just having a bad day,” he added.

“The advice is very well taken,” Dr. William Neal, who wasn’t involved in the study, told Reuters Health.

Last week, a research team led by Neal, of West Virginia University in Morgantown, found that among fifth-graders from West Virginia, as many as one-third with LDL cholesterol levels at or above 160 mg/dL would not be screened under current government guidelines. That led the team to recommend screening all children, although an independent expert said the evidence doesn’t support that conclusion. (See Reuters Health story of July 12, 2010, http://link.reuters.com/cen97m )

Neal said he uses statins in children who don’t benefit from changing lifestyle, but he virtually never starts medication without doing two cholesterol tests spaced months apart.

“I don’t think (the new study) is going to alter my practice or my beliefs much,” he said.

The CDC researchers examined how cholesterol levels changed over time in a group of more than 6,800 children from Bogalusa, Louisiana. The kids were tested five times on average, and about half of them also had measurements done as adults.

Initial levels of LDL (“bad”) cholesterol turned out to be strongly linked to later levels, even after 20 years. But as time went by, the differences in cholesterol between kids tended to shrink, with very high levels slumping and low levels rising. The researchers said the changes might have had nothing to do with diet or exercise changes, although they couldn’t say for sure.

The biggest drops were seen in kids who initially had very high cholesterol, landing some in a range that no longer warrants drugs, according to guidelines.

Since 2008, the American Academy of Pediatrics has recommended that drug treatment be considered in cases where LDL cholesterol in the blood is at least 190 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL); if a parent or grandparent has heart disease or high cholesterol, the threshold is 160 mg/dL.

After four years, cholesterol levels had fallen below that threshold 60 percent of the time in kids that initially landed above it, the new report shows.

“Although for the most part children with extremely high LDL cholesterol levels had high levels at reexamination,” the researchers write, “the changes in LDL cholesterol levels that occurred between examinations would have altered the recommended dietary or pharmacologic interventions for many children.”

The fundamental question, however, is what to do with those kids who have high cholesterol.

As Dr. Michael L. LeFevre, of the University of Missouri in Columbia, told Reuters Health last week, “Unfortunately, there is no evidence that starting a ten-year-old on cholesterol-lowering drugs will prevent heart disease 40 years later.”

For that reason, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, a federal expert panel of which LeFevre is a member, currently doesn’t recommend routine cholesterol screening in any children.

CHICAGO (Reuters) – Heart imaging procedures can deliver a significant amount of radiation to patients, U.S. researchers said on Wednesday, urging patients and doctors to weigh the risks against the benefits.

They said nearly 1 in 10 adults under the age of 64 had a heart procedure involving radiation over a three-year period in five major healthcare markets.

“For many patients in the United States, there is a substantial cumulative radiation exposure from cardiac procedures,” said Dr. Jersey Chen of Yale University School of Medicine, whose study appears in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology.

An advanced type of heart stress test called myocardial perfusion imaging, in which doctors inject a radioactive tracer in patients to test blood flow, accounted for 74 percent of radiation exposure from heart scans.

Heart catheterization and stenting – procedures in which thin tubes are fished through blood vessels to open blocked arteries – were the second biggest contributor to radiation exposure, Chen said.

More than half of the heart procedures using radiation were done in the doctor’s own office, the team found.

“Policymakers have been concerned that there is a rise in physician office imaging and a rise in total use of imaging,” Chen said in a telephone interview.

“I think there is legitimate concern that easy availability – convenience – makes the threshold for testing lower. Whether it is inappropriate or not, our study can’t say.”

While doctors disagree over how much, most agree that radiation can cause cancer, and researchers are growing concerned that an explosion in the use of medical imaging is making it more likely that patients may develop cancer.

A report last year by the National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurement found that Americans receive seven times more radiation from diagnostic scans than in 1980.

Chen’s team, looking specifically at radiation exposure from heart imaging procedures, studied medical claims records from nearly 1 million patients aged 18 to 64 insured by United Healthcare.

They calculated the annual radiation dose based on three exposure ranges: less than 3 millisieverts a year, the average exposure level for people from the sun and environment; between 3 and 20 millisieverts a year and more than 20 millisieverts a year, the upper safety limit for workers exposed to radiation.

Of those who got heart procedures using radiation, most fell into the middle range but more than 3,000 patients got more than 20 millisieverts a year over the three-year period and 75 people got more than 50 millisieverts a year.

“The average patient who gets a nuclear stress test is going to get 16 millisieverts each time. It’s going to increase their risk on a statistical basis,” Chen said.

Dr. Pamela Douglas of Duke University in North Carolina and a former president of the American College of Cardiology said doctors need to pay attention to radiation but she said the benefits of these heart tests and procedures should be weighed against the risk that a cancer might develop down the road.

“Let’s not get hysterical,” she said in a telephone interview.

“Overall, patients with heart disease are doing way better. The procedures are helping people. If we can change them or tweak them to help reduce radiation exposure even more, that would be wonderful.”

WASHINGTON (Reuters) – Two studies released on Monday reported serious heart risks with diabetes pill Avandia as U.S. regulators decide whether the drug should stay on the market.

An analysis of 56 clinical trials found Avandia increased the chances of a heart attack by 28 percent to 39 percent, researchers at the Cleveland Clinic in Ohio reported in an update to a 2007 study that sparked intense debate about the drug.

Dr. Steven Nissen, the lead author and an outspoken Avandia critic, said the results from more than 35,000 patients gave a more complete picture that reinforced his earlier concerns.

“A drug that increases the risk of heart attack by a third or more in diabetics represents a huge public health burden,” Nissen, the Cleveland Clinic’s head of cardiology, said in an interview. He said the drug should go off the market.

In another study released on Monday, government researchers said an analysis of more than 227,000 U.S. Medicare patients found Avandia (from GlaxoSmithKline Plc) was more dangerous to the heart than another drug called Actos (from Takeda Pharmaceutical Co).

Those findings, reported earlier this month by Reuters and others, were published online by the Journal of the American Medical Association. The study’s lead researcher is Food and Drug Administration reviewer David Graham, a whistleblower who has argued for years that Avandia is too risky.

Top FDA officials have disagreed, and Glaxo has vigorously defended the drug.

In February, the FDA said it was again reviewing Avandia’s risks and called an advisory panel meeting for next month.

The new studies are “important contributions to the discussion of Avandia’s safety,” FDA Deputy Commissioner Joshua Sharfstein said in an interview. The agency and the panel will consider those findings plus others, including FDA analyses not yet made public, he said.

The panel could urge keeping the drug on the market with a warning, or it could suggest a ban on future sales. The FDA usually follows panel recommendations.

The FDA, which approved Avandia 11 years ago, will “review all the available evidence and make the best possible decision,” Sharfstein said.

In the meantime, the agency has advised doctors and patients to continue using Avandia as directed. The current FDA-approved warning on Avandia says heart attack data are “inconclusive.”

Glaxo now is facing lawsuits from patients claiming harm from the drug, known generically as rosiglitazone.

The company said six randomized clinical trials, the gold standard for medical studies, showed Avandia did not increase the overall risk of heart attack, stroke or death.

The studies released on Monday are among the largest of Avandia, but they rely on a combination of multiple trials or past Medicare claims. Such studies are considered less reliable than randomized clinical trials.

In an editorial discussing Graham’s findings, Dr. David Juurlink of the Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences in Toronto argued for erring on the side of public safety in the face of uncertainty about risks.

“Accumulating concerns about (Avandia) make it difficult to advance a cogent argument why, exactly, a patient might want to receive the drug,” Juurlink wrote.

Many of the 23 million U.S. diabetics take medicines to lower blood sugar. The goal is to prevent disease complications such as blindness, amputations and heart disease, the leading killer of people with diabetes.

But critics say Avandia seems to contribute to heart damage. Nissen’s study, published by the Archives of Internal Medicine, estimated one more heart attack would occur for every 37 to 52 people who took the drug for five years.

Graham’s analysis, done with researchers at the FDA and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, found a 27 percent higher stroke risk for Avandia over Actos, a 25 percent greater risk of heart failure and a 14 percent higher chance of dying.

“In older Americans with diabetes, taking Avandia is detrimental to your health” and patients “are far better off taking (Actos),” Graham said in an interview.

Both Graham and Nissen have been asked to speak to the FDA panel, Sharfstein said.

Diabetics have many alternatives as 12 classes of drugs are approved to lower blood sugar, Nissen said. They include older generic drugs such as metformin and newer medicines such as Merck’s Januvia and AstraZeneca and Bristol-Myers Squibb’s Onglyza.