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
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
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 …
Migraine & Mental Health: The Emotional Toll of Chronic Headaches
While the pain and discomfort experienced as a result of migraines it’s widely-known, what’s less discussed (and important to talk about) is the emotional toll chronic headaches can have on sufferers. Here, we’ll discuss the psychological implications of frequent migraines, including depression and anxiety, and the impact that receiving mental health support can have on those who experience them.The Connection …
Is Flaxseed Good for My Heart?
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 …
How to Form Healthy Habits that Actually Stick
While many believe that habit forming is all about will-power, in actuality, it’s an art. There’s a lot that goes into it on the physical, mental, and emotional levels. And if you don’t know how to go about effectively creating a healthy habit, you’re left at a disadvantage (if not completely discouraged). It’s been shown through research that about 50% …
Diabetes Friendly Sweet Potato Pie
Try out this exceptional sweet potato pie recipe. Not only is it diabetes-friendly, but it’s downright delicious!Ingredients 5 medium orange sweet potatoes, or 40 oz canned (no sugar added) 1 stick melted butter 1 cup monkfruit or Splenda 2/3 cup evaporated milk 2 eggs 1 tsp vanilla extract 1 tsp ground nutmeg 1 tsp ground cinnamon 1 9-inch unbaked pie …
Does Building Deep Connections Affect 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 …
What is a Heart Attack?
Every 40 seconds, someone in the U.S. suffers from myocardial infarction (more well-known as a heart attack).1 In essence, a heart attack is a severe medical emergency in which the blood supply to the heart is suddenly cut off. When this happens, the affected muscle tissue begins to die. A heart attack can lead to severe complications or death if …
Shoveling Snow and Heart Attacks
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 …