Belly fat-fat accumulation around the internal organs, including the heart and arteries-increases risk of heart disease and cancer. Evidence suggests that this kind of fat emits disease-promoting chemical messengers.
Thickening of the heart-hypertrophic cardiomyopathy-is a genetic disease. People with a first-degree relative who has the disease have a 50-50 chance of having it, too. Family genetic testing is indicated, as early detection can prevent sudden death.
Regularly eating breakfast is associated with a 27% lower risk of heart attack or death from heart disease than skipping the first meal of the day.
Adopting a heart-healthy diet doesn’t necessarily mean drastic lifestyle change. Small dietary tweaks may suffice. Pick tasty substitutes for saturated fat, trans fat, sugar, sodium, and calories while increasing fiber and nutrient intake.
When a family member develops a type of heart disease with a known genetic cause, all close family members should consider genetic testing.
Blocking a molecule that inhibits an important heart gene helps prevent heart cells from dying after a heart attack.
Although dental disease and heart disease share many of the same risk factors, the American Heart Association says there’s no convincing evidence that dental disease causes heart disease. People with valve disorders need special dental care.
Cancer is associated with a reduced risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease, especially among people treated with chemotherapy.
Mounting evidence shows that it is healthier to reduce animal-based proteins and increase plant-based proteins in the diet. Sources for plant-based proteins include whole grains, nuts, nut butters, legumes, and soy products.
It appears that skipping breakfast may lead to a higher risk of heart attack in middle-aged and older men. Our bodies need to be fed regularly to maintain cholesterol, insulin, and blood pressure at healthy levels.