Heart conditions continue to be a serious problem in America. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that heart disease is the main cause of death of both men and women, while approximately 785,000 people suffer their first heart attack each year.
February is the American Heart Association’s Heart Health Month, making it the right time to get on track in terms of taking care of this vital organ.
Dr. Oz recently gave his best advice for being heart smart and it starts with eating right and exercising often.
According to Oz, one surprising factor that can harm the heart is listening to music too loudly. Noise pollution can attribute to a rise in a person’s blood pressure, heart rate and stress levels which can all contribute to the risks of having a heart attack. Sounds as low as 70 decibels, the normal level associated with street noise, can be loud enough to enhance the risks. A long term study in Finland found that women who reported being “sensitive to sound,” had an 80 percent increased risk of dying from cardiovascular disease.
Another risk factor for heart conditions is taking calcium supplements. Oz reports that a study in 2010 found that over time, calcium supplements on their own can cause calcification of the arteries, which can increase heart attack risks. Instead, users are suggested to take calcium pills that also contain vitamin D and magnesium.
Getting the flu shot may also do more than just keep elders or caregivers free from the virus. It might help ward off heart problems as well. According to Oz, the flu can cause inflammation in the body, including the arteries in the heart. There, it can fester and irritate plaque which may lead to rupturing and possibly a heart attack.
Oz reports that other ways to stay heart healthy include keeping a clean mouth and staying away from products that contain Bisphenol A (BPA).
