cardiovascular health Archives - Amazing Health Advances

Are Millions at Risk? Blood Thinner Linked to Stroke & Heart Attack

The AHA! Team — Fri, 15 Aug 2025 05:30:54 +0000

News Staff via NaturalHealth365 – Blood thinners are an integral part of post-surgery treatment, as well as just a daily part of the lives of millions of Americans who suffer from coagulopathies (clotting disorders). While there are many long-standing blood thinners on the market, we want to focus on one in particular – Ticagrelor (Brilinta) – which was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2011 despite significant concern about its efficacy or the benefits of this drug over already existing anticoagulants. Though many countries outside the U.S. approved the drug, trials in the U.S. showed that the medicine wasn’t as effective as Astra Zeneca indicated. And though it is still a widely prescribed medication for clotting disorders, there is still a significant amount of concern over how effective and safe the drug is. Let’s look at this extremely common drug, the claims against it, and how you can naturally help your cardiovascular health. Was Ticagrelor’s FDA approval based on flawed data? To gain approval from the FDA, a medication has to prove that it’s better than similar medications on the market. This might be because it delivers similar results more cheaply, performs better, or includes something others do not (it does double duty). Ticagrelor is not cheaper – it’s $450/60-day supply or more – so the crux of the argument for approval was that it was better than its cheaper competitors. The trials didn’t reach the threshold for approval, and the drug was denied in 2010 but was approved in 2011. Here, we reach the main concern: the initial trials have been accused of misrepresenting or manipulating data, resulting in unreliable results. Subsequent independent trials indicate good cause for concern, citing difficulty replicating the so-called amazing results that Astra Zeneca reported initially. Is Ticagrelor worth the risk? Studies raise serious concerns Beyond the concerns that the initial approval data was fudged or manipulated, several other independent studies have shown signs that the risk of hemorrhage, stroke, or catastrophic blood clot is more likely in Ticagrelor than in its competitors. A study out of Japan showed that patients on Ticagrelor had a 9% rate of significant incidents (heart attack, stroke, hemorrhage, and death) versus around 6% for the competition. This, along with other studies, had many doctors and medical researchers suggesting that the Department of Justice look into the medication and the path to approval, though ultimately, that line of thinking was seemingly abandoned in 2013. Although the drug is still highly prescribed, the results of these studies and others have had many medical professionals think twice about administering it to their patients. And although the increased risk of cardiovascular events is only slightly higher with this medicine, the incidence rate is still higher. Combined with the sketchy path to approval and questionable methodology in their trials should make you question taking it if it’s been prescribed to you. Supporting heart health without the risks Several whole foods and holistic compounds offer blood-thinning and cardiovascular benefits for those interested in a natural approach. But, of course, you should never stop a blood thinner without doctor supervision and approval. Turmeric/Curcumin This powerful anti-inflammatory compound also has anticoagulant properties. While using turmeric as a spice is beneficial, concentrated curcumin in supplement form is a more reliable way to access its effects. Be sure to take it with black pepper, as its compounds enhance curcumin absorption. Most supplements include both, but it’s important to check. Lifestyle changes Taking care of your overall health is crucial for proper blood clotting and cardiovascular function. Daily exercise – at least 30 minutes – and regular movement like walking can help lower blood pressure, reduce cholesterol, improve heart health, and regulate platelet function. Sleep Quality sleep ensures that blood cells function properly and supports blood vessel elasticity and heart health. Whole foods over processed foods Ultra-processed foods are linked to numerous health issues, including cancer, diabetes, heart disease, stroke, obesity, and insulin resistance. A diet rich in whole foods – especially fiber-rich vegetables and fruits – can significantly benefit heart health. Omega-3 fatty acids Found in fatty fish like tuna and salmon, omega-3s support heart health, vessel elasticity, and brain function. If fish isn’t a regular part of your diet, supplementing with fish oil, krill oil, or borage oil may offer additional benefits. Herbal and natural supplements Ginkgo biloba promotes circulation and prevents platelet buildup. Garlic and ginger act as natural anticoagulants and reduce inflammation. Hawthorn berry strengthens the heart and improves blood flow. Stress management Chronic stress raises blood pressure, increasing the risk of stroke and heart attack. Managing stress effectively is crucial for cardiovascular health. Hydration Proper hydration is key to preventing clotting issues. Drinking water throughout the day and especially upon waking up can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular events. Dehydration doesn’t directly cause heart attacks, but it is a significant contributing factor. Get grounded By having your feet touch the Earth, you can help to get rid of static electricity and other environmental electrical charges that surround you. Studies show that grounding can increase the surface charge of red blood cells (RBCs); increase the spacing between RBCs to reduce clumping; and improve blood flow throughout the body. Bottom line: investing in your health naturally is one of the best ways to keep your heart strong and reduce reliance on blood thinners like Ticagrelor. Editor’s note: Discover the best ways to avoid a heart attack and stroke, own the Cardiovascular Docu-Class created by NaturalHealth365 Programs. Sources for this article include: BMJ.com To read the original article click here.

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Fitness Apps Fuelling Disordered Eating

The AHA! Team — Wed, 14 May 2025 05:09:27 +0000

Flinders University via EurekAlert! – With New Year resolutions in full swing and health tracking apps at our fingertips, new research reveals concerning links between health and fitness apps and disordered eating, body image concerns and excessive exercise. “Diet and fitness apps are marketed as tools to improve health, however they may also have unintended negative consequences, such as creating pressure to meet goals, concerns about body image as well as provoking feelings of guilt if goals aren’t achieved,” says Ms Isabella Anderberg in the College of Education, Psychology and Social Work. “Whilst there is evidence that these tools can be effective in increasing physical activity, we’re interested in understanding whether these apps might actually be harmful for some users.” Diet and Fitness apps The use of diet and fitness apps is common among young adults, with an estimated 311 million people using health apps, such as MyFitnessPal, to track their meals, calories, and exercise. Flinders University researchers reviewed 38 studies to examine the links between the use of diet and fitness apps and the risk of users becoming obsessive about weight loss, body image, calorie counting, and excessive exercise. The research found that those who use health and fitness apps regularly were more likely to have problematic habits related to food and exercise. “We found that young adults who use diet and fitness apps have greater disordered eating symptoms, such as harmful or restrictive diets, and have negative thoughts about body image when compared to those that don’t use them,” says Ms Anderberg. Focus on Dietary Restriction and Weight-Loss “The focus on dietary restriction and weight-loss in these apps may feed into restrictive or excessive behaviours raising concerns for those people who have pre-existing concerns about their weight or body image. “While some users reported positive experiences such as increased awareness and motivation, the broader implications for mental health need careful consideration, especially among vulnerable populations like adolescents,” she says. The research also highlights the responsibility that app developers have when designing health and fitness apps to consider the psychological impacts of these tools. Senior author, Professor Ivanka Prichard, says that as more people turn to apps for guidance in their wellness journeys, they should ensure that they are prioritising mental health alongside fitness goals. Being Aware of the Potential Risks “Our findings highlight the importance of promoting healthy body image and exercise behaviours among young adults, and of being aware of the potential risks associated with the use of diet and fitness apps and for users to approach them with a focus on improving their health,” says Professor Prichard. “In a growing world of technology, studies like this are important in shaping future research to provide the best health and self-management information via apps to the wider population,” Professor Prichard adds. The research team noted that more research is needed to understand the benefits and risks related to using health and fitness apps. Self-Monitoring Technology “As self-monitoring technology evolves and new diet and fitness apps are released, it is crucial that research continues to explore potential benefits and any unintended consequences connected to their use,” concludes Ms Anderberg. The article, “The link between the use of diet and fitness monitoring apps, body image and disordered eating symptomology: A systematic review” by Isabella Anderberg, Eva Kemps and Ivanka Prichard was published in Body Image journal. DOI: 10.1016/j.bodyim.2024.101836 Journal Body Image DOI 10.1016/j.bodyim.2024.101836 To read the original article click here.

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The Big Cardio Lie Continues…

The AHA! Team — Mon, 24 Mar 2025 05:32:07 +0000

Al Sears, MD, CNS – The Big Cardio Lie Continues… For 10 years, long-distance runner Ryan Hall held the U.S. record in the half marathon. He was the first person to break the one-hour barrier in that race. And his time in the Boston Marathon remains the fastest for any American athlete. Ryan trained hard. And he trained often. Until he was forced to retire at the age of 33 because his strength was sapped and his fatigue extreme. By the end of his career, the 5’10” former Olympian weighed a paltry 127 pounds. He admits his grinding workouts left him “weak and underdeveloped.” Today, he’s gained almost 40 pounds of pure muscle — and says he couldn’t be happier. His new workout routine includes intense drills with short rest periods between sets. More on that in a moment… Most of the running world was shocked when Hall retired at such an early age. But I wasn’t at all surprised when I heard. You see, along with being an anti-aging doctor, I’m a certified personal trainer. I spent years working with athletes. And I saw what long-distance running and endurance training did to their bodies. This type of cardio exercise causes your muscles to simply waste away. “Cardio” is short for cardiovascular endurance training. It’s the idea that you have to raise your heart rate for a long duration. It’s when you spend 45 minutes on a treadmill, run for miles a day, or take an hour-long aerobics class. This kind of exercise is just not natural. Our ancestors didn’t go jogging. They had short bursts of action, followed by longer periods of rest. And it’s how they stayed strong and healthy with powerful muscles. Unlike the stressed-out, weak muscles of long-distance runners like Ryan Hall. Endurance exercise quickly burns through carbs and fat. This forces your body to break down muscle to help meet energy needs. It also uses your smaller, more oxygen-efficient muscle fibers and ignores your larger, more powerful muscle fibers that actually trigger muscle-building. One study showed that the muscles of marathon runners actually shrink. When the muscle biopsies of marathon runners were analyzed, researchers found their muscle fiber size had decreased and atrophied.1 The way to build strong muscles that keep you healthy is to shorten the duration of your exertion but increase the challenge. That’s the philosophy behind my PACE principle. PACE stands for Progressively Accelerating Cardiopulmonary Exertion, and the concept is pretty simple: short, progressively accelerated bursts of intense exercise followed by rest. And the research proves it works… One study followed women over the age of 80. Three times a week they did short but intense exercise routines similar to PACE. After just 36 sessions they increased their lower-body muscle mass by 26% and their leg muscle power by 31%.2 There are a lot of ways to do PACE, but for building strength, your best bet is to do resistance training exercises. But you don’t need to use weights or join a gym. Your body is the only equipment you need. I’m talking about calisthenics, which use the resistance of your own body weight to make you stronger (they’ll help you burn extra fat, too). And you’ll see and feel results almost immediately. In one study, 21 frail, elderly subjects took part in resistance training. After just 11 weeks, their muscle fiber increased by up to 60%.3 But another study really made me sit up and take notice… In this study, researchers took muscle samples from both young and older adults. The seniors were 59% weaker at the start of the study than the young people. The older group did resistance calisthenics three times a week. After six weeks, the older group improved their muscle strength by about 50%. But there was an even more remarkable side effect. Their muscle tissue was rejuvenated. In fact, most of the genes that express aging were reversed back to younger levels!4 Grow Your Muscles While Reversing Aging I’ve helped hundreds of people increase muscle mass with my PACE principle. To get the biggest impact in the shortest amount of time, I recommend starting with one of the largest muscles in your body. Those are the quadriceps on the front of your thighs. NOTE: Anyone can do PACE. You don’t have to be in great shape to start. That’s the beauty of this program. All you need to remember is that no matter where you start, you just need to keep increasing the challenge. And to rest and recover fully between each period of exertion. Here’s one of my favorite quad-builders: Jump Squats Start with your body crouched, feet together, arms extended down, head straight and level. From this position, straighten your legs and jump upward as high as you can into the air. Once you have landed, quickly return to your original starting position, taking care not to lose your balance throughout the exercise. Repeat. It will take you a few sessions to build up your stamina. Start slowly. If you’re a beginner or have trouble with your knees, you can take out the jump and just push yourself up on your toes. Take plenty of time to build up your strength, endurance and balance gradually. Rest and recover between sets. At first, you’ll have to take longer breaks, but they’ll get shorter as you rebuild your natural strength. To Your Good Health, Al Sears, MD, CNS References: Trappe S, et al. “Single muscle fiber adaptations with marathon training.” J Appl Physiol. 101:721-727, 2006. Raue U, et al. “Improvements in whole muscle and myocellular function are limited with high-intensity resistance training in octogenarian women.” J Appl Physiol. 2009;106(5):1611-7. LaStayo P, et al. “The positive effects of negative work: increased muscle strength and decreased fall risk in a frail elderly population.” J Gerontol A Biol Sci Med Sci. 2003; 58(5):M419-424. Melov S, et al. “Resistance exercise reverses aging in human skeletal muscle.” PLoS ONE. 2007; 2:e465. To read the original article about The Big Cardio Lie click here.

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Warning: This Nighttime Risk Could be Raising Your Blood Pressure

The AHA! Team — Fri, 31 Jan 2025 06:52:27 +0000

Patrick Tims via NaturalHealth365 – Often brushed off as a minor annoyance, snoring is now recognized as a potential indicator of significant health risks. Have you ever found yourself jolted awake in the dead of night, only to realize it was your own snoring that woke you? Or perhaps you’re one of the many lying awake beside a partner whose snores fill the silence, keeping you from getting the rest you need. If so, you’re far from alone. Snoring is more common – and more impactful – than many realize. Often brushed off as a minor annoyance, snoring is now recognized as a potential indicator of significant health risks. According to a recent study published in NPJ Digital Medicine, snoring may be more than just a nighttime nuisance. Is there something wrong with your blood pressure? Snoring is more than an annoyance to your bedmate. The study linked above found that snoring could be an early warning sign of high blood pressure, a serious condition that can lead to a range of cardiovascular issues. According to the study, the risk is especially pronounced in middle-aged, overweight men, highlighting that snoring might not just impact sleep but overall health. To uncover these insights, researchers used advanced, at-home monitoring tools, collecting data over six months on 12,287 participants. They found that regular snoring had a meaningful effect on blood pressure levels. Specifically, 15% of participants snored for more than 20% of their sleep hours, and these individuals had nearly double the risk of uncontrolled hypertension compared to those who snored less often. These findings suggest that consistent snoring could significantly impact cardiovascular health, yet it remains an overlooked risk factor for both the medical community and the general public. In-home sleep monitoring: How the study was conducted To accurately assess the relationship between snoring and hypertension, researchers leveraged innovative technology. Participants were monitored nightly with under-mattress sensors, which provided objective data on snoring frequency, sleep apnea, and other sleep quality indicators. This multi-night, real-world approach offered a more reliable snapshot of snoring patterns compared to previous studies that relied on single-night or self-reported data. Additionally, participants’ blood pressure levels were tracked with FDA-approved, at-home blood pressure monitors, providing precise and consistent daytime readings. Over nine months, researchers gathered sleep data and repeated blood pressure measurements from each participant, resulting in a comprehensive analysis of nearly 12,300 people. The findings were clear: those who snored regularly – especially those spending 10-20% of the night snoring – had higher blood pressure levels, even when accounting for sleep apnea. Natural ways to reduce or stop snoring The findings from the recent snoring study will be valuable for shaping future clinical treatments and therapies to reduce snoring and manage hypertension. While we’re still learning more, there are several things you can try right now to cut down on snoring or even eliminate it entirely. If you suspect a nasal airway obstruction, a simple nasal spray could help open up your airways. Consider using a Neti Pot or a similar device to flush out your sinuses with warm water for a more thorough approach. This can make a noticeable difference in clearing your nasal passages. If your own snoring wakes you up at night or if your partner has mentioned it, it’s a good idea to get checked for sleep apnea. There’s often a link between snoring and sleep apnea, and the risk of developing uncontrolled hypertension is nearly doubled for those who snore regularly and have sleep apnea. The vibrations from snoring that travel through your nasal passages can also be reduced by tackling some of the underlying risk factors. If you lead a sedentary lifestyle, start by incorporating more physical activity into your routine. If you’re carrying extra weight, making healthier food choices and starting an exercise program can have a big impact on snoring and overall health. As a final note: dairy products and sugary foods will tend to create more mucus in the upper respiratory tract. Try to limit or avoid these products for improved breathing. Sources for this article include: Nature.com Scitechdaily.com To read the original article click here.

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Johnson & Johnson Pays $1.7b for Innovative Israeli Heart Failure Treatment

The AHA! Team — Mon, 23 Sep 2024 16:53:45 +0000

Zachy Hennessey via Israel21c – Big pharma giant shells out $1.7 billion for Israeli company V-Wave, and expects to earn enough to purchase a gumball — in the short term, at least. Global healthcare giant Johnson & Johnson (J&J) announced on Tuesday that it will acquire Israeli startup V-Wave for up to $1.7 billion, in a strategic move by J&J to bolster its position in the fast-growing congestive heart failure market, which is projected to reach $30 billion globally by 2030. The $1.7b. deal is the 10th biggest acquisition in Israel’s history. It will see J&J pay $600 million upfront, with an additional $1.1 billion in potential milestone payments tied to regulatory approvals and commercial performance targets. The acquisition is expected to provide a modest boost to J&J’s earnings, contributing an estimated 24 cents per share in 2024 and 6 cents per share in 2025. However, the true value of the deal likely lies in the long-term growth potential of V-Wave’s innovative heart failure treatment technology. V-Wave’s flagship product, the Ventura Interatrial Shunt (IAS), is an implantable device designed to alleviate the elevated left atrial pressure that plagues patients with congestive heart failure. The minimally invasive IAS procedure aims to reduce the risk of cardiovascular events and hospitalizations for those suffering from heart failure with reduced ejection fraction – a condition where the heart muscle is unable to effectively pump blood. By creating a shunt between the left and right atriums, the device helps to relieve pressure buildup in the left atrium, potentially improving patient outcomes and quality of life. The acquisition comes at a critical time for J&J, as the company prepares to face increased competition for its blockbuster psoriasis drug Stelara, which is set to lose patent protection next year. In response, the healthcare giant has been actively pursuing mergers and acquisitions to bolster its pipeline and drive future growth. “We know V-Wave well, with our relationship dating back to our original investment in the company in 2016, and we have a deep understanding of the technology and science, as well as the company’s commitment to patients,” said Tim Schmid, Executive Vice President and Worldwide Chairman of Johnson & Johnson MedTech. Earlier this year, J&J announced the $13.1 billion acquisition of Shockwave Medical Earlier this year, J&J announced the $13.1 billion acquisition of Shockwave Medical, a move aimed at expanding its cardiovascular device portfolio. The company has also recently acquired Numab’s skin disorder drug for $1.25 billion and Proteologix for $850 million. “At V-Wave, we are dedicated to achieving our vision to help patients around the world – and we know Johnson & Johnson MedTech shares this mission,” said Dr. Neal Eigler, CEO of V-Wave. “We look forward to continuing to build a world where cardiovascular disease is prevented, treated and cured.” To read the original article click here.

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10 Genius Hacks to Sneak in 20 Minutes of Outdoor Exercise

The AHA! Team — Tue, 23 Jul 2024 08:27:28 +0000

Dr. Don Colbert – Feel too busy to get in a good workout most days? We feel it too. While outdoor exercise is extremely important, it also feels like one more thing we have to add to our already-too-busy lives. Thankfully, we’ve got 10 genius hacks to help you! Not only can you pick just 4 of these to get in outdoor exercise, but each of them is also extremely beneficial to your health. Some of them will help you break up a sedentary workday. Others will help you get outside into natural light in the morning. Some will encourage high heart rates, and others flexibility. Why add these exercise hacks? Not only is exercise great for our muscles, hearts, and brains, outdoor-activity specifically has been shown to improve mood and depression (1). What’s more, if the sun is shining, your body will make Vitamin D, an immune-stimulating vitamin. The exercise itself also provides immune-enhancing benefits, so it’s a double shot of health for your body (2). Ready to get going? Just choose 3 or 4 of these each day to get 20 minutes per day. You can stick with the same ones day after day, or mix it up. But, if you’re not already intentionally moving every day, this can help you get started (or add to what you’re already doing). You’ve got this! 10 Genius Hacks to Sneak in 20 Minutes of Outdoor Exercise 1. Get a Jump Rope and Head Outside Got 5 or 10 minutes in the morning? If so, get yourself out into the sunshine while it’s not too hot, and start jumping! Even 5 minutes of jump rope can get your heartrate up, give you as good a workout as running, plus work your abs and arms. If you haven’t jumped rope in a while, don’t worry if it feels impossible at first. It’s tough. But, keep trying. Before you know it, you’ll be able to put 100 jumps in a row without stopping. Also, you can mix it up! Try jumping on both feet together, running in place, one foot at a time, scissoring front to back, scissoring side to side, and more. 2. Walk Hills in Your Neighborhood or an Adjacent One Are there hills in your neighborhood, an adjacent one, or on the way to work? If hills are readily available, walking or hiking them is an incredibly effective workout. Not only does it provide cardiovascular benefits, but walking uphill strengthens muscles similar to resistance training. If you’ve got ten minutes, try walking up for 6 minutes, and return back in 4. This is a quick, powerful option! 3. High Intensity Intervals in Your Yard Got 10 minutes when you return home? You can get a ton accomplished in 10 minutes with high intensity intervals. Try these outside in your yard or patio area: Squat down and jump up, jumping jacks, lunges, push-ups, high-knee running in place, sit-ups, jumping up with knees to chest, front kicks, back kicks, and others. You can find many high interval workouts online or on apps. These moves are up to twice as effective as running in terms of calorie burn and cardiovascular benefits. 4. Dust off Your Bike Got a bike? Get on it and head out! A 10-20 minute bike ride can clear your head, make you smile, work your whole-body, and get your heart rate up. You don’t have to have aspirations to be a great cyclist. You can ride around your neighborhood, on a bike path through a park, to and from work, and more. Cycling is a great way to add exercise and enjoy the outdoors. 5. Have Walking Meetings If you have regular work calls or social calls (with your mom or daughter, perhaps), turn them into walking meetings! If you’re able, walk while you talk. Many of us spend 10 minutes or more on phone calls that could take place indoors or out. Take advantage of this time and work your body while you talk! 6. Make the Stroller Your New Workout Partner If you’re a parent or grandparent, you can use a stroller to your advantage. Both you and your child can enjoy the sights and sounds of the outdoors when you go for a walk. What’s more, if you’re able to add uphill walking, you’ll get a great stroller workout. It can also be a wonderful time for talking to your child, counting stop signs, fire hydrants, mailboxes, and more. 7. Enjoy a Park or Open Space Do you know of a beautiful park or open space in your town? Many of them have great walking trails or sidewalks. Whether you see geese, squirrels, kids, sunrises, or others on your walk, you will enjoy many benefits of being in a natural setting. Figure out how to fit this into your day, whether you choose one that’s in route to your work, errands, or other activities. 8. Walk Stairs at an Outdoor Stadium Many towns and cities have outdoor stadiums, amphitheaters, or stairs that are available to public use. If you can find one, take advantage of it and walk up and down the stairs or bleachers. This will give you a chance of scenery and a change of pace! 9. Walk for Your Lunch and Breaks Just like walking during your meetings, you can also walk outside during your breaks. As much as you can, reduce your daytime sitting by standing, or even better, walking. Not only will taking a short 5-10 walk break outside increase your alertness and focus, it supports cardiovascular health (3). 10. Lay Your Yoga Mat Down Outside Did you know that flexibility is vital to overall health and cardiovascular health? Did you also know that adults naturally lose trunk flexibility every year they age unless they proactively work on it? It’s true! Combat inflexibility by focusing on stretching or yoga. Even better, do it outside while the sun comes up. Not only will this support your physical health, but getting natural light early in the morning supports your sleep-wake cycle. Bottom Line Outdoor exercise is great for your mind, body, and soul. Choose to exercise with others, while talking on the phone, or by yourself. Add exercise during sunrise, during the day to break up sedentary hours, after dinner, or whenever you can. Most importantly, choose activities you enjoy. Make this summer your most active summer! To read the original article click here.

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Red Wine “Waste” Could Extend Your Lifespan

AHA Publisher — Mon, 28 Nov 2022 08:00:18 +0000

Al Sears, MD, CNS – I enjoy drinking a nice glass of red wine with my grass-fed steak dinner. And the health benefits are an added bonus! But, it turns out the seeds from red grapes have even more health benefits than wine. These seeds – the same ones my brothers, sister, and I used to spit out at each other whenever we ate grapes – contain disease fighters so potent I call them super-antioxidants. In fact, a recent study from the National Institutes of Health backs up what I’ve been telling my patients for years… Grape seed extract’s antioxidant capacity can reduce the inflammatory process at the root of today’s chronic diseases. But, its regenerative benefits go even further… A breakthrough study published in the journal Nature Metabolism recently revealed grape seed extract successfully prolonged the lifespan of old mice by 9%.1 Researchers focused on a phenomenon known as cellular senescence – the process during which your cells lose function as your body ages. Specialized compounds called senolytics destroy these rogue cells, allowing the body to repair the damage. In the breakthrough study, researchers discovered a previously unidentified senolytic derived from a compound in grape seed extract called procyanidin C1, or PCC1. This newly discovered senolytic induces a type of programmed cell death called apoptosis in senescent cells while leaving healthy cells unharmed. In the new study, the mice were exposed to doses of radiation that caused them to develop abnormal features such as significant amounts of gray hair. They also lost muscle mass and suffered damage to their kidneys, livers, and lungs. But once the compound in the grape seed extract was introduced, this damage was reversed. According to the study authors, there’s no reason to believe that this compound can’t do the same for human beings. It’s just one more advantage to add to a growing list of benefits we get from these seeds. To date, they’ve been proven to: Dramatically reduce the risk of prostate cancer2 Improve blood sugar and insulin sensitivity3 Slow brain aging and increase cognitive function4 Boost HDL cholesterol and lower blood pressure5 Restore cardiovascular health6 Fight infections and kill germs7 Make Grape Seed Extract Part of Your Life There are two distinct ways to add the seeds of grapes to your diet. Grapeseed extract comes from the small seeds (and occasionally the skins) of red grapes – the same kind that is pressed to make wine. Grapeseed oil comes from the same seeds – but after the juice is pressed. Supplement With Grape Seed Extract: I recommend taking 250 mg of grape seed extract twice per day. It’s available in capsules, tablets, or in liquid form. Look for products that are standardized to 40 to 80% proanthocyanidin polyphenols. Cook with Grapeseed oil: Grapeseed oil is a joy to cook with. It smokes at a much higher temperature than olive oil – which means you can sauté and pan-sear your favorite meats, fish, and vegetables without burning anything. You can also rub fish or chicken with the oil before baking. To Your Good Health, Al Sears, MD, CNS References: 1. Xu Q, et al. “The flavonoid procyanidin c1 has chemotherapeutic activity and increases lifespan in mice.” Nat Metab. 2021 Dec 6. doi: 10.1038/s42255-021-00491-8. Online ahead of print. 2. “Garavaglia J, et al. “Grape seed oil compounds: biological and chemical actions for health.” Nutr Metab Insights. 2016 Aug 16;9:59-64. 3. Sapwarobol S, et al. “Postprandial blood glucose response to grape seed extract in healthy participants: A pilot study.” Pharmacogn Mag. 2012 Jul-Sep; 8(31): 192–196. 4. Bell L, et al. “Grape seed polyphenol extract and cognitive function in healthy young adults: a randomised, placebo-controlled, parallel-groups acute-on-chronic trial.” Nutr Neurosci. 2020 Jan 16;1-10. 5. Grohmann T, et al. “Efficacy of bilberry and grape seed extract supplement interventions to improve glucose and cholesterol metabolism and blood pressure in different populations-a systematic review of the literature.” Nutrients. 2021 May 17;13(5):1692. 6. Feringa H, et al. “The effect of grape seed extract on cardiovascular risk markers: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. J Am Diet Assoc. 2011. Aug;111(8):1173-81. 7. Su X, Dsouza D. “Grape seed extract for control of human enteric viruses.” Appl Environ Microbiol. 2011 Jun; 77(12): 3982–3987. To read the original article click here.

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Exercise + Sauna = Better Cardiovascular Function

AHA Publisher — Mon, 18 Jul 2022 07:00:03 +0000

American Physiological Society (APS) via Newswise – Rockville, Md. (July 14, 2022)—New research suggests that adding a regular 15-minute sauna to an exercise routine may improve cardiovascular risk factors more than exercise alone. The study is the first randomized controlled trial to explore the long-term combination of exercise and sauna bathing in a non-clinical population. It is published ahead of print in the American Journal of Physiology-Regulatory, Integrative and Comparative Physiology. “Sauna bathing is a safe and simple lifestyle modification, and steps should be taken to make it more accessible worldwide.” Previous research has found that heat exposure in the form of sauna bathing has been positively associated with cardiovascular function. However, most studies have been fairly short (between two and four weeks) and explore the response to heat therapy in athletes. Longer-term studies in people who are not as physically active have been lacking. In this new study, the research team studied adult volunteers who were between the ages of 30 and 64 years old, had “deskbound” occupations, and exercised less than 30 minutes per week. All volunteers also had at least one risk factor for cardiovascular disease, such as high cholesterol, high blood pressure, obesity, smoking or family history of coronary heart disease. The volunteers were randomly placed into three groups: One group participated in resistance and aerobic exercise three times a week for 50 minutes each time. One group participated in resistance and aerobic exercise three times a week for 50 minutes each time, followed by a 15-minute sauna. A control group did not participate in exercise or sauna bathing. Sauna exposure began at 149 degrees F and was increased every two weeks by 41 degrees F. The participants were free to leave the sauna before 15 minutes if they were uncomfortable in the heat, but all of them completed each full sauna session. After eight weeks of the intervention, the researchers found an increased maximum rate of oxygen consumption—a key marker of cardiorespiratory function—in both exercise groups when compared with the control group. More importantly, the sauna group showed greater increases in the maximum rate of oxygen consumption and decreases in total cholesterol and systolic blood pressure levels than the exercise-only group. “This study opens up opportunities to investigate shorter bouts of regular exercise in conjunction with sauna use and lends support for regular sauna bathing as a possible therapeutic alternative, particularly for those with compromised exercise capacities. Sauna bathing is a safe and simple lifestyle modification, and steps should be taken to make it more accessible worldwide,” the researchers wrote. “Sauna bathing could be effectively incorporated into a range of other compatible rehabilitation settings as well,” said Earric Lee, of the University of Jyväskylä, Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences in Finland, and corresponding author of the study. To read the original article click here.

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The Sunshine Vitamin That ‘D’elivers on Cardio Health

AHA Publisher — Tue, 07 Dec 2021 08:00:16 +0000

University of South Australia via Newswise – Free from the sun, vitamin D delivers a natural source for one of the hormones essential to our bodies, especially the bones. But when you’re down on this essential nutrient, it’s not only your bones that could suffer, but also your cardio health, according to new research from the University of South Australia. In the first study of its kind, researchers from the UniSA’s Australian Centre for Precision Health at SAHMRIhave identified genetic evidence for a role of vitamin D deficiency in causing cardiovascular disease. The study, which is published in European Heart Journal today, shows that people with vitamin D deficiency are more likely to suffer from heart disease and higher blood pressure, than those with normal levels of vitamin D*. For participants with the lowest concentrations the risk of heart disease was more than double that seen for those with sufficient concentrations. Globally, cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of death worldwide, taking an estimated 17.9 million lives per year. In Australia, CVD accounts for one in four deaths and costs the Australian economy five billion dollars each year, more than any other disease. Low concentrations of vitamin D are common in many parts of the world, with data from the UK Biobankshowing that 55 per cent of participants have low levels of vitamin D (<50 nmol/L) and 13 per cent have severe deficiency (<25 nmol/L). Low levels of vitamin D are recorded by an estimated 23 per cent of people in Australia, 24 per cent of people in the US, and 37 per cent of people in Canada. Chief investigator, UniSA’s Prof Elina Hyppönen** says appreciating the role of vitamin D deficiency for heart health could help reduce the global burden of cardiovascular disease. “Severe deficiency is relatively rare, but in settings where this does occur it is very important to be proactive and avoid negative effects on the heart. For example, deficiency can be a problem for people living in residential care who may have limited exposure to sun,” Prof Hyppönen says. “We can also get vitamin D from food, including oily fish, eggs and fortified foods and drinks. This said, food is unfortunately a relatively poor source of vitamin D, and even an otherwise healthy diet does not typically contain enough. “If we don’t get any vitamin D through the sun, this is one of the rare nutrients for which we sometimes need to take a daily supplement to keep up with the requirements. “Understanding the connection between low levels of vitamin D and CVD is especially important, given the global prevalence of this deadly condition. “Our results are exciting as they suggest that if we can raise levels of vitamin D within norms, we should also affect rates of CVD. In our study population, by increasing vitamin D-deficient individuals to levels of at least 50 nmol/L, we estimate that 4.4 per cent of all CVD cases could have been prevented.” This large-scale Mendelian study used a new genetic approach that allowed the team to assess how increasing levels can affect CVD risk based on how high the participants actual vitamin D levels were. The study used information from up to 267,980 individuals which allowed the team to provide robust statistical evidence for the link between vitamin D deficiency and CVD. “It is not ethical to recruit people with vitamin D deficiency to a randomised controlled trial and to leave them without treatment for long periods. Prof Hyppönen says. “It is exactly this type of difficult setting which demonstrates the power of our genetic approach, given we can show how improving concentrations affects the risk in those most in need, without exposing participants to any harm. “Those with the lowest concentrations are likely to have the strongest effects, yet a population-wide approach to eradicate vitamin D deficiency could reduce the global burden of CVDs.” To read the original article click here.

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