harvardhealth_news_UNDEFINED
Planks are an isometric exercise, in which the muscles contract but do not move. They are a great way to strengthen muscles in the abdomen, back, legs, shoulders, and arms.
Ejection fraction is the fraction (expressed as a percentage) of the blood that the heart “ejects” out to the rest of the body when it contracts. Low ejection fraction signals one form of heart failure. An echocardiogram is the standard test to measure ejection fraction.
Despite statements like “promotes heart health” on the labels of fish oil supplements, multiple randomized trials show no evidence of heart-related benefits from using these products. In addition, manufacturing methods might make the products either useless or even harmful. The supplements do provide omega-3 fatty acids, but people can get these essential fats by eating two servings of fatty fish weekly or following a vegetarian diet rich in healthy oils, nuts, and seeds.
Products that encourage healthy eating or exercise can make good holiday gifts for family and friends. Examples include cooking gadgets (such as a food chopper or high-quality knife), a gift basket of fresh fruit or Mediterranean-inspired treats, or home workout equipment (such as dumbbells, resistance bands, or sports-related gear).
Isometric exercises that engage the muscles without movement—such as wall squats and planks—may help lower blood pressure more than other types of strength training. Experts have speculated about a possible mechanism: During isometric exercise, clenched muscles temporarily constrain blood flow. The following surge of blood may stimulate the release of factors that help relax the vessels and ultimately contribute to a reduction in blood pressure.
A side lunge with a knee lift works the inner and outer thigh muscles and helps improve balance.
In 2023, a small preliminary study found that single injection of a new RNA-based drug may lower blood pressure for up to six months.
Even slightly elevated blood sugar levels—a condition known as pre-diabetes—may raise the risk of cardiovascular problems. But attention to weight loss and greater use of medications to lower blood pressure and cholesterol appear to reduce the risk.
A 2023 study found that the more steps people take, the lower their risk of dying from cardiovascular disease, with the benefits starting with as few as 2,300 steps per day.
About one in 500 people has hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), a condition that causes the walls of the heart to thicken and enlarge. It’s often caused by genetic mutations and is the most common inherited form of heart disease. Contrary to popular belief, vigorous exercise appears to be safe for most people with HCM. For people with symptoms, several treatments are available, including mavacamten (Camzyos), a first-in-class medication that targets the underlying cause of HCM by inhibiting a protein that helps power heart muscle contractions.