Heart-2-Heart Talk from Garner’s Natural Life
Jan 30, 2016 02:35PM ● By Emily Crawford, RN, CNHP
The month of February is recognized nationally as American Heart Month and is also highlighted by National Wear Red Day, celebrated this year on Friday, February 5. Heart disease is the number one killer of women in the U.S., killing 1 in 3 women a year—equating to one death every minute. For this reason, it is necessary that women explore every possible avenue of preventive care in support of a healthy cardiovascular system. The American Heart Association cites that diet, exercise, stress reduction and adequate sleep are essential to better health. Adding good fats, omega-3 fish oil or plant-based omega products as a part of one’s diet can improve cholesterol, decrease diabetes risk, lower blood pressure and promote heartbeat regularity. Mixing a scoop of flax or chia powder into one’s smoothie is also a great option.
A National Institutes of Health study reveals that ongoing sleep deficiency is linked to an increased risk of heart disease, kidney disease, high blood pressure, diabetes and stroke. Adults should get seven to eight hours of sleep each night. There are many natural remedies and practical tips to help improve sleep quality for individuals that wake up multiple times at night or simply struggle to fall asleep. Helpful and healthy ways to encourage good sleep include setting up a good bedtime routine, enjoying a cup of bedtime herbal tea, using lavender essential oil or drinking a glass of powdered magnesium before bedtime.
Using adaptogens, unique herbs that have the ability to help the body deal with stress, can also be beneficial in the pursuit of better sleep and improved heart health. Two adaptogens of choice are ashwagandha and rhodiola. These particular herbs help to properly regulate the stress hormone cortisol, which often leads to healthy weight loss due to decreased stress levels. Abnormal cortisol levels can lead to disrupted sleep patterns, weight gain and increased stress.
Some prescribed medications may deplete essential nutrients the body needs while treating the conditions for which they are prescribed. Many blood pressure or cholesterol-lowering medications can cause deficiency levels in B vitamins, calcium, magnesium, zinc, coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) and other nutrients. It may be necessary to supplement the process with certain nutrients. For example, CoQ10 can help with side effects resulting from the use of a statin drug for the treatment of high cholesterol. It also helps to decrease cholesterol as well.
It is important to consult one’s doctor and do the proper research to ensure that the body is getting the necessary nutrients to support good health. Remember to wear red this month in honor of women’s heart health. But, also remember to support your own health by practicing prevention.
Garner’s Natural Life has an experienced and capable staff ready to help those on the journey to better health and wellness—including heart health!
Garner’s Natural Life is located at 4080 Forest Dr. (in Trenholm Plaza), Columbia. For more information, call 803-454-7700. See ads, this page and back page.
