Heart Disease is the leading cause of death in America, killing over 800,000 people a year. As we age, our risk for heart attack and stroke increases exponentially. However, at any age, we can work towards a healthy body and healthy heart.
According to the CDC, the leading risk factors for heart disease are high blood pressure and high cholesterol.
Home blood pressure tools can help monitor your daily blood pressure to understand how your body reacts to stress and other environmental factors. While there are some at home cholesterol kits, most people rely on annual blood work to understand their cholesterol makeup and risks.
To fight against natural and environmental factors that lead to high blood pressure and heart disease, there are some steps you can take and supplements you should add to your daily regime.
Steps to a healthy heart:
Exercise at least 30 minutes a day in your target heartbeat zone; approximately 50-85% of your max heart rate for your age. See the image below to find out your target heart rate.
Manage your stress. Stress is a large contributor to heart disease and a normal part of most adults' lives. However, managing stress can make a large difference in overall happiness and longevity. Yoga, meditation, and massages have proven to provide calmness, clarity, and release of tension.
Stop smoking. According to the CDC, smokers are six times more likely to have heart disease versus non-smokers. Within 1 year of not smoking, your body has a 50% less chance of heart disease.
Focus on a healthy diet. When dealing with stress, people are less likely to spend time eating a healthy diet. However, focusing on fruits, vegetables, and lean protein allows your body to perform at an optimal level.
Supplements for a healthy heart. Daily supplements not only help your body work at peak performance, you can often sleep better, and as a result better manage stress and be at less risk for heart disease. Here is a quick guideline to the best supplements for supporting a healthy heart.
Omega-3 fatty acids or fish oil: Adding Omega-3 fatty acids to your diet or supplement regimen may support a healthy heart and already healthy cholesterol levels.*
Multi-Vitamin: Daily vitamins for overall health may help substitute for a less than healthy diet or a general inability to receive nutrients naturally through fruits and vegetables.
Coenzyme Q10: CoQ10 is made naturally in the body and produces energy your body needs for cell growth and maintenance. As we age, our body produces less on its own and a supplement may assist with what your body is lacking.
Fiber: Fiber may support already healthy cholesterol levels when combined with a diet low in saturated fats.
L-Carnitine: This amino acid transports fats to the mitochondria for energy production and normal heart function.
Vitamin D: Vitamin D protects your bones and supports energy productions. Vitamin D absorbs naturally through sunlight. If you struggle to receive adequate exposure to sun, taking a vitamin D supplement may fill the void.
Magnesium: Low magnesium levels are often associated with high blood pressure, cholesterol and hardening of the arteries. Taking a daily magnesium supplement or using our Magnesium Bath Crystals (also helps with stress reduction) may help.
When choosing a heart health supplement, it is recommended that you start with an annual exam from your doctor to find out what your body is lacking. Moderation is always the key to heart longevity.
