Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in North America and it's time for us to put an end to it! We've all heard that stopping smoking and maintaining a healthy weight are the best ways to reduce our risk of heart disease, but here are other lifestyle tips that could help save your life.
As always, it's best to consult with a healthcare practitioner before starting any new supplements or exercise regimes.
Consume More Omega-3 Fatty Acids
The fatty oils found in certain fish like salmon can help reduce your bad cholesterol. Increase your weekly fish consumption or consider supplementing with a clean omega-3 fish oil.
- NutriChem Pure Premium Fish Oil (liquid)
- NutriChem Mega Marine (capsules)
- NutraSea Omega-3 Liquid Gels (capsules)
- Other fish oil options
Supplement with CoQ10
Co-Enzyme Q10 is a powerful antioxidant. It helps with energy, fertility, diabetes and heart disease. Preliminary research indicates that CoQ10 may help people with congestive heart failure.
- NutriChem CoEnzyme Q10 (100 mg)
- NutriChem CoEnzyme Q10 (50 mg)
- Other CoQ10 options
Supplement with Magnesium
It is believed that a large percentage of Canadians have depleted magnesium stores due to the dwindling nutrient content of our soils and therefore our foods. Magnesium is crucial for energy, relaxation and muscle function (including the heart), and may help lower blood pressure. Magnesium glycinate is a very absorbable form of magnesium, and is also less likely to cause an upset stomach if you've been sensitive to magnesium supplements in the past.
- Mega Mag (120 mg of magnesium gylcinate)
- Mega Mag 200 (200 mg of magnesium glycinate)
- Magnesium Glycinate (100 mg of magnesium glycinate)
Build Exercise Into Your Daily Routine
If you don't use it, you lose it! Exercising just 20 minutes a day is just what your heart needs. Exercise helps lower "bad" LDL cholesterol levels and blood pressure, boosts the "good" HDL cholesterol levels, burns calories, and keeps your heart muscles heathy and strong.
- WebMD: Exercise for a Healthy Heart
- Prevention.com: 8 Best and Worst Exercises for Your Heart
- Active.com: 4 Yoga Poses for a Healthy Heart
Maintain Good Oral Health
Recent research is demonstrating that brushing your teeth will not only give you a bright smile, it will also give you a "brighter" heart! It has been suggested that several types of cardiovascular diseases may be connected to oral health, specifically gum disease.
Even though oral health isn't a key to heart disease prevention, Mayo Clinic still advises that it's very important to take care of your teeth and gums:
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day;
- Floss daily;
- Replace your toothbrush every three months — or sooner if the bristles become bent;
- Schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings.