risk of stroke 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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Regular Dental Flossing Linked to Lower Risk of Stroke & Irregular Heartbeats

The AHA! Team — Wed, 09 Apr 2025 05:27:39 +0000

American Heart Association via News-Medical – Flossing your teeth at least once a week (regular dental flossing) may be linked to a lower risk of stroke Flossing your teeth at least once a week may be linked to a lower risk of stroke caused by a blood clot blocking brain blood flow and irregular heartbeats, according to a preliminary study to be presented at the American Stroke Association’s International Stroke Conference 2025. The meeting is in Los Angeles, Feb. 5-7, 2025, and is a world premier meeting for researchers and clinicians dedicated to the science of stroke and brain health. A recent global health report revealed that oral diseases – such as untreated tooth decay and gum disease – affected 3.5 billion people in 2022, making them the most widespread health conditions. We aimed to determine which oral hygiene behavior – dental flossing, brushing or regular dentist visits – has the greatest impact on stroke prevention.” Souvik Sen, M.D., M. S., M.P.H, study lead author, chair of the Department of Neurology, Prisma Health Richland Hospital and the University of South Carolina School of Medicine in Columbia, South Carolina A structured questionnaire of more than 6,000 people The Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) study, one of the first large-scale investigations of this kind in the U.S., assessed the home use of dental floss through a structured questionnaire of more than 6,000 people. Among those who reported flossing, 4,092 had not experienced a stroke, and 4,050 had not been diagnosed with an irregular heartbeat known as atrial fibrillation (AFib). Participants were asked about their status regarding high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, smoking, body mass index, education, regular brushing and dentist visits. During the 25 years of follow-up, 434 participants were identified as having strokes, of which 147 were larger artery brain clots, 97 were heart-driven clots and 95 were hardening of the smaller arteries. Additionally, 1,291 participants were noted to have experienced AFib. The analysis found: Flossing was associated with a 22% lower risk of ischemic stroke, 44% lower risk of cardioembolic stroke (blood clots traveling from the heart) and 12% lower risk of AFib. The associated lower risk was independent of regular brushing and routine dental visits or other oral hygiene behaviors. Increasing the frequency of flossing had a greater chance of stroke risk reduction. Flossing was also associated with a lower chance of cavities and periodontal disease. Researchers were surprised by the reduction of irregular heartbeats, or AFib. AFib is the most common form of irregular heartbeat. It can lead to stroke, heart failure or other cardiovascular complications. More than 12 million people are projected to have AFib in the United States by 2030, according to the American Heart Association’s 2025 Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics. “Oral health behaviors are linked to inflammation and artery hardening. Flossing may reduce stroke risk by lowering oral infections and inflammation and encouraging other healthy habits,” Sen said. “Many people have expressed that dental care is costly. Flossing is a healthy habit that is easy to adopt, affordable and accessible everywhere.” Study limitations Study limitations include that data were based on answers to a questionnaire, and the 25-year follow-up appears to have focused on stroke and heart outcomes only. There was no follow-up concerning flossing or other oral behaviors over the years, Sen said. “This study offers more insights into the specific dental health behaviors that may be linked to stroke risks and potential risk reduction. With further research, dental health practices could possibly be incorporated into the “Life’s Essential 8″ risk factors, which include diet, physical activity, nicotine exposure, sleep, body mass index, blood pressure, blood glucose and blood lipids,” said Daniel T. Lackland, Dr.P.H., FAHA, American Heart Association EPI and Stroke Council member and professor of epidemiology and director of the Division of Translational Neurosciences and Population Studies in the department of neurology at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston. Lackland was not involved in this study. Study background, and details: The study began in 1987 and is ongoing. Of the 6,258 participants, 82% were self-reported white adults and 18% Black adults. Their average age was 62 years and 55% were women. Potential participants were excluded if they had total tooth loss, dental implants, heart disease, organ transplant, artificial joints, implanted heart valve or stent or major surgery. Source: American Heart Association To read the original article click here.

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People Living at Higher Altitudes Have a Lower Risk of Stroke and Stroke-Related Death, Finds Study

AHA Publisher — Mon, 04 Oct 2021 07:00:41 +0000

Frontiers via News-Medical – The study is the first to examine the incidence of stroke-related hospitalization and death in people living at four different elevations in Ecuador, and includes data gathered over 17 years on more than 100,000 stroke patients. Strikingly, the study finds that people living at higher altitudes have a lower risk of stroke and stroke-related death, and that this protective effect is strongest at between 2,000 and 3,500 meters. Having the Right Altitude Stroke is a leading cause of death and disability worldwide. A stroke typically occurs because of a blockage, such as a blood clot, in one of the arteries supplying blood to or within the brain. You may be familiar with some of the most common lifestyle and health factors that contribute to stroke risk, including smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and lack of physical activity. However, there is another overlooked factor that could also affect your stroke risk – altitude. Higher altitude means less oxygen availability, so people who have lived on higher ground have adapted to these conditions. However, how this environment affects someone’s chances of developing stroke is still unclear. Anecdotal evidence suggests that short-term exposure to low oxygen can contribute to increased blood clotting and stroke risk, but the risk among people who permanently live at high altitude is not clear. Researchers in Ecuador are in a unique position to explore these phenomena, as the presence of the Ecuadorian Andes means that people in the country live at a wide array of altitudes. The main motivation of our work was to raise awareness of a problem that is very little explored. That is, more than 160m people live above 2,500 meters and there is very little information regarding epidemiological differences in terms of stroke at altitude. We wanted to contribute to new knowledge in this population that is often considered to be the same as the population living at sea level, and from a physiological point of view we are very different.” Esteban Ortiz-Prado, Study Lead Author and Professor, Universidad de las Americas Solving the Mystery The researchers studied hospital records in Ecuador from between 2001 and 2017, and assessed levels of stroke hospitalization and death among people who live at four different elevation ranges: low altitude (under 1,500 meters), moderate altitude (1,500–2,500 meters), high altitude (2,500–3,500 meters) and very high altitude (3,500–5,500 meters). The results showed that people who lived at higher altitudes (above 2,500 meters) tended to experience stroke at a later age compared with those at lower altitudes. Intriguingly, people who lived at higher altitudes were also less likely to be hospitalized or die because of stroke. However, this protective effect was greater between 2,000 and 3,500 meters and tailed off a little above 3,500 meters. So, why might living at high altitudes protect against stroke? It may be that people who live at high altitude have adapted to the low oxygen conditions, and more readily grow new blood vessels to help overcome stroke-related damage. They may also have a more developed vascular network in their brains that helps them to make the most of the oxygen they intake, but this could also protect them from the worst effects of stroke. More research is needed to identify the mechanisms behind this phenomenon, but the results may be some comfort to those who live on top of the world. To read the original article click here.

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