Female faces of cardiovascular disease

A Different Risk: Women and Cardiovascular Disease

cardiogram Cardiogram, Coronary Artery Disease, Heart Health, Heart IQ

Although the overall mortality due to cardiovascular disease (CVD) is decreasing for both women and men, it is still the leading cause of death for all American women regardless of ethnicity In 2014, females represented nearly half of deaths attributable to CVD. Over the next month, we will provide information on the differences in cardiovascular disease in women compared to …

Work Stress and Cardiovascular Disease

cardiogram Blood Pressure, Cardiogram, Coronary Artery Disease, Healthy Habits, Heart Health, Heart IQ, Hypertension, Medical Conditions, Stress

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death of American adults. Although much attention is given to the importance of diet, exercise, smoking cessation and the role of genetics, a lesser focus has been given to the role of stress reduction in the prevention and treatment of heart disease.   A large number of studies have demonstrated a clear link between …

The Heart Truth About Sleep Apnea

cardiogram Cardiogram, Heart Health, Heart IQ, Sleep, sleep apnea

Our hearts are incredible. They literally keep us alive. They send blood around our body, they provide us with the oxygen and the nutrients we need to stay alive, and they carry away waste in the process. We know this. But, most of us don’t realize just how easy it is to damage this special organ, and why we need …

Is Flaxseed Good for My Heart?

cardiogram Heart Health

It’s long been known just how beneficial omega-3 fatty acids are for heart health. They can help to ward off cardiovascular disease, reduce risk of stroke and diabetes, and lower blood pressure.  While most people immediately think of fish as the primary source of this essential nutrient, more and more research shows that there’s another plant-based option: Flaxseed!1What is Flaxseed? Flax …

Does Building Deep Connections Affect Heart Health?

cardiogram Heart Health

Definition of Intimacy: (noun) close familiarity or friendship; closeness.  Intimacy is a key to our ability to form deep and meaningful connections with those around us. The ability to do so is in fact good for more than just boosting oxytocin (the feel good hormone known for building trust, relationships, and sexual arousal). In fact, social support and connection plays …

Shoveling Snow and Heart Attacks

cardiogram Heart Health

It’s not just a myth. It’s been studied and found that shoveling snow really does increase risk of heart attack.1 Why? Well, shoveling snow can be likened to reaching peak exercise levels on a stress test.2 Which for some, especially those who are already at greater risk of heart related conditions, can be enough to trigger myocardial infarction (a heart …

Nuts and Chocolate (in Moderation) Are Good for Your Heart

cardiogram Heart Health

The likelihood that a brownie with nuts would be good for your heart might seem slim, at best. After all, brownies are an indulgence notoriously high in both sugar and fat. However, evidence suggests that both cocoa and tree nuts can actually help to prevent coronary heart disease (CHD), which remains the leading cause of death in the United States.

Clock laying on pile of fall leaves

How the Fall Time Change Impacts Heart Health (And 5 Ways to Combat the Effects)

cardiogram Heart Health

It’s been debated whether or not bi-annual time changes impact our health. And now, multiple studies have shown that losing one hour when “springing forward” increases risk of mental and cardiovascular complications1 including depression, heart attacks, and stroke. But is “falling back” just as harmful? Your Body Relies on Routine There isn’t significant evidence that the autumn time change is as detrimental for …

The Sunshine Vitamin: How Vitamin D Benefits Your Heart

cardiogram Heart Health

Vitamin D has long been known for its bone strengthening abilities. However, it’s also been studied for its contribution to cardiovascular wellness, improved mental well-being and in its ability to speed recovery rates in those who are ill. On the flip side, lacking adequate amounts of vitamin D can be detrimental to your health. Here, we explore all of this …