heart-letter
As we age, bones lose calcium and arteries accumulate calcium, which causes them to stiffen. But it’s still important to get enough calcium, which works with vitamin D in the body to keep bones strong.
If replacing a heart valve becomes necessary, the decision is mainly a choice between a mechanical valve, which requires the recipient to take warfarin to prevent clotting, or a tissue valve, which will not last as long as a mechanical one.
The layer of endothelial cells that lines blood vessels helps protect them and keep them functioning properly, but smoking, poor diet, and other risk factors can damage the endothelium, opening the door to heart disease.
Researchers found that the rates of artery-clearing procedures varied significantly among different regions in the United States.
I am 80 years old. 40 years ago I had a heart attack. I stopped smoking but remained very active. My blood pressure, with the help of medications, is around 125/70. My physician thinks I am pushing too hard and has urged me to take it easier. Is he right?
My family has squabbled about oats for some time. Some members say that to get the biggest health benefit from oats you need to eat them raw, moistened with water. Others say they should be cooked. Does cooking take something beneficial out of oats?
A revised formula for calculating peak heart rate in women can help those who may want to determine a target heart rate as a guideline for exercise.
A healthy diet that includes poultry, fish, whole grains, vegetables and fruits, nuts, legumes, low-fat dairy products, and unsaturated fats can help control high blood pressure.
Brief reports on anxiety disorders and increased risk of heart disease, the decline in trans fat use in fast food, and the health benefits of bicycling.
Daily self-monitoring of blood pressure readings can help keep pressure from drifting upward.