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New Study Links the Timing of Physical Activity to Greater Heart-Protective Benefits

AHA Publisher — Fri, 09 Dec 2022 08:00:48 +0000

News Staff via NaturalHealth365 – We all know exercise is essential for overall well-being and heart health. But does it matter what time of day you exercise? According to a new study published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology, it may. The data suggest that physical activity at certain times of day is linked to greater heart-protective benefits. Exercising During This Time of Day Could Be Best for Protecting Your Heart Health The recent study evaluated data from the UK Biobank on almost 87,000 men and women. The Biobank kept track of the physical activity levels as well as the heart health of the participants. By looking at the data, researchers sought to determine whether the time of day people exercise played a role in heart health. The participants were all healthy when the monitoring began. They wore activity trackers to determine the times of day they did physical activity. The participants’ heart health status was monitored for about six years. All participants were between the ages of 42 and 78, and over half were women. During the six years, over 3,000 study participants developed heart disease or a stroke. However, the participants who exercised in the late morning – primarily between 8 AM and 11 AM – appeared to have a lower risk of heart disease and stroke. In fact, compared to people who exercised at other times of day, the morning exercisers experienced up to 24% lower risk of heart disease and 35% less risk of stroke! Why Does Exercise Timing Matter? Despite these results, researchers don’t have a clear answer as to why the timing of physical activity might make a difference. Interestingly, the increased heart-protective benefits of morning exercise were only noted in women. There was no difference seen in men. Still, the findings warrant further research into exercise timing. Researchers suggest that the benefits of morning exercise could be related to the way the body’s metabolism works at different times of the day. In other words, the timing of food intake could impact heart health benefits, influencing the study findings. This may be because nutrient storage and metabolism can change throughout the day. In addition, exercise holds many other benefits, including stress reduction and improving mood. So it’s possible that lower stress throughout the day also impacts heart disease risk. Whatever the case, the study suggests that morning exercise is ideal, especially for women. How to Promote Optimal Heart Health Even if you can’t exercise in the morning, it’s better to exercise whenever you can than not at all. However, starting the day with physical activity is probably a good idea for anyone who can do it, although exercise timing seems to mainly affect women. Morning exercise also can help you feel better overall and more prepared for the day. On top of exercise, eating a healthy diet is essential for protecting your heart. Aim for a diet rich in nutrient-dense organic fruits and vegetables and try to minimize toxic processed foods. Cutting back on sugar intake will also have heart health benefits. Sources for this article include: Academic.oup.com Consumer.healthday.com To read the original article click here.

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WARNING: Aspirin and Ibuprofen Proven to Cause Heart Attacks

AHA Publisher — Wed, 01 Sep 2021 07:00:36 +0000

Karen Sanders via NaturalHealth365 – A groundbreaking study presented at the Annual Congress of the European League Against Rheumatism provided compelling data proving that non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like aspirin and ibuprofen can cause heart attacks. At the conference, Dr. Carl Orr from the Department of Medicine, Royal College of Surgeons, stated: The side effect profile and safety of NSAIDs have been commonly reported, but little is known about treatment duration and its implications for cardiovascular risk. This data demonstrates an immediate increase in the risk of death and MI [heart attack], challenging the safety of even short-term use. The introduction of physician guidelines to assist safe prescribing of this class of drug is vital and the only way to keep patient safety at the forefront of disease management. Shocking Statistics from Dr. Orr’s Study Software was used to analyze 10,000 patients registered with a large primary care facility who fit the following profile: • Over 50 years old • Had been prescribed NSAIDs in the past • Was previously diagnosed with ischemic heart disease, diabetes mellitus, and/or hypertension Computer-generated data discovered that in late 2012, 108 patients were prescribed NSAIDs over a two-month period, and 36 percent had established ischemic heart disease or risk factors for cardiovascular disease. It’s also interesting to note that the average treatment prescribed was 265 days; 56 percent were prescribed NSAIDs for longer than one month, and 15 percent for a year or longer. In addition, in 55 percent of cases, diclofenac was the NSAID prescribed. This last point has caused much concern due to diclofenac’s well-known side effects, including heart attacks, strokes, and internal bleeding. Disheartened, Dr. Orr subsequently concluded, “We find it disconcerting that diclofenac was prescribed in 55 percent of cases and suggest that recommendations to switch to safer alternatives are a critical component of any physician guidelines.” Research Is Mounting Against NSAID Use Dr. Orr’s study is not sitting alone on some obscure island. Scores of studies have been and are being published correlating significant health risks to common pain killers. Back in 2013, for example, the world-renown journal Lancetpublished the results of the famous Coxib and traditional NSAID Trialists’ (CNT) Collaboration – a study in which data was employed from more than 350,000 randomized patients. From their research, the authors confidently concluded: • Heart failure risk was roughly doubled by all NSAIDs • All NSAID regimens increased upper gastrointestinal complications • Major vascular events were increased by about a third by a coxib [Cox-2 inhibitor], chiefly due to an increase in major coronary events • Ibuprofen also significantly increased major coronary events, but not major vascular events. Ironically, NSAIDs have been heralded by the medical community for their ability to prevent heart attacks and strokes because they supposedly help prevent blood clots from forming in the bloodstream. In fact, while waiting for the emergency response team to arrive, it is common practice for physicians to provide patients with aspirin if they are suspected of having a heart attack in their office. Let’s Not Forget the Biggest Issue With taking NSAIDs NSAIDs are the most prescribed medications in the world and are among the most common pain relievers globally. It is believed that up to 30 million people take NSAIDs every day. Used to reduce arthritis complaints, fever, and swelling, NSAIDs are Cox-1 and Cox-2 enzyme inhibitors. By blocking these enzymes, the prostaglandin cascade is inhibited, and the body’s natural inflammatory response is prohibited, thus keeping pain, swelling, and fevers at bay but not addressing the root cause of the disease process. Prescription NSAIDs include: • Daypro • Indocin • Lodine • Naprosyn • Relafen • Vimovo • Voltaren Over-the-counter NSAIDs include: • Aspirin (Bufferin, Bayer, and Excedrin) • Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, Nuprin) • Ketoprofen (Actron, Orudis) • Naproxen (Aleve) There Are Safer Alternatives to NSAIDs A plethora of safe, natural alternatives exists, so you don’t need to feel pressured to use NSAIDs. Instead, contact your local natural health provider today to see what works for you. And, don’t overlook the power of natural foods to reduce inflammation – like eating plenty of organic fruits and veggies – loaded with antioxidants like vitamin C. Sources for this article include: NIH.gov ScienceDaily.com TheLancet.com Drugs.com To read the original article click here.

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UVA Scientists Identify a Potential Way to Prevent Heart Attacks and Strokes

AHA Publisher — Fri, 02 Apr 2021 07:00:00 +0000

UVA Health via News-Medical Net – Scientists at the University of Virginia School of Medicine have identified a potential way to head off heart attacks and strokes by strengthening the fibrous caps overlying atherosclerotic plaques that naturally accumulate inside our arteries. These fatty lesions can rupture, triggering blood clots that cause disability or death. New research from the lab of UVA’s Gary K. Owens, PhD, reveals surprising new information about the makeup of the protective caps our bodies build over these lesions, and about the factors that determine their stability. The study supports recent findings that certain types of inflammation might actually help stabilize plaques. Doctors may one day be able to use these insights to strengthen the caps and prevent the plaques from rupturing. “These studies redefine our understanding of both how the caps form and what makes them strong. These studies were completed by a large team of highly talented investigators from UVA and abroad but led by three outstanding trainees from my laboratory, including co-first authors Alexandra Newman [PhD], Vlad Serbulea [PhD] and Richard Baylis [MD/PhD].” (Gary K. Owens, PhD, Head of UVA’s Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center, and Member of UVA’s Departments of Molecular Physiology, Biological Physics, Internal Medicine – Division of Cardiology) Understanding Atherosclerotic Plaques Unstable atherosclerotic plaques account for the majority of heart attacks and a large fraction of strokes, making these lesions the leading cause of death worldwide. The protective caps our bodies create over these lesions act like a patch on a tire, preventing them from rupturing and triggering catastrophic blood clot formation, which, in blood vessels supplying the heart or brain, can cause a heart attack or stroke. Therefore, improving our understanding of how the cap forms is of major clinical importance. “Despite decades of research, little is known regarding the factors and mechanisms that promote formation and maintenance of a stable fibrous cap,” the UVA researchers write in a new scientific paper outlining their findings. This work from Owens and his team helps change that, offering unexpected insights into the caps’ composition and origins. Scientists have thought that the caps were derived almost exclusively from smooth muscle cells, but Owens’ findings reveal that there is a “tapestry” of different cell types involved. “For years we assumed that most of the protective fibrous cap cells were of smooth muscle cell origin because that’s what they look like under the microscope,” Newman said, adding, “Advanced techniques show us how dynamic this structure really is.” Baylis noted that “having multiple cell types contribute to the fibrous cap likely make this critically important structure more robust and resistant to plaque rupture.” Up to 40% of the fibrous cells in the cap in lab mice come from sources other than smooth muscle cells, the researchers found. In advanced human lesions, approximately 20%-25% of the fibrous cap cells came from other sources. Those other sources include endothelial cells – cells that line our blood vessels – and immune cells called macrophages, typically viewed as being pro-inflammatory and plaque de-stabilizing, that have undergone special transitions that enable them to perform plaque-stabilizing functions. The researchers went on to provide evidence that the formation of the fibrous cap is dependent on metabolic re-programming of these cells to perform processes that are essential to plaque stabilization. The findings suggest that clinicians may one day be able to treat the underlying causes of heart attacks and strokes by enhancing these transitions through novel drug therapies and dietary modifications to help ensure patients have stable caps. “Our studies unveil a potential new approach for reducing the probability of plaque rupture, which could be used in conjunction with current therapies that focus on lowering cholesterol and preventing clot formation.” (Gary K. Owens, PhD) “This paradigm-shifting study presents evidence for beneficial roles of other cell types and mechanisms driving plaque stabilization,” Serbulea explained. He added that in conjunction with previous studies from the lab, these findings provide evidence that “inflammation, often the scapegoat for heart disease, seems to reprogram endothelial cells and macrophages to help stabilize plaques.” Taking the new results in consideration with recent clinical trials such as CANTOS, TINSAL-CVD and CIRT that have shown little to no benefit of global anti-inflammatory therapies, the UVA team is urging researchers and pharmaceutical companies to rethink their approaches to preventing heart attacks and strokes. Findings Published The researchers have published their findings in the scientific journal Nature Metabolism. The research team consisted of Newman, Serbulea, Baylis, Laura S. Shankman, Xenia Bradley, Gabriel F. Alencar, Katherine Owsiany, Rebecca A. Deaton, Santosh Karnewar, Sohel Shamsuzzaman, Anita Salamon, Mahima S. Reddy, Liang Guo, Aloke Finn, Renu Virmani, Olga A. Cherepanova and Owens. Finn disclosed an interest with the Amgen biotechnology company. The work was supported by National Institutes of Health grants R01 HL132904, R01 HL136314 and R01 HL141425; a Leducq Fondation Transatlantic Network Grant; Basic and Translational Cardiovascular Training Grants 5 T32 HL 007284-41, 5 T32 HL007284- 43 and 5 T32 HL 007284-40; NIH Fellowship F30 HL 136188-04; a Small Research and Travel Grant; an Ingrassia Family Echols Scholars Research Grant; and a Harrison Undergraduate Research Award. To read the original article click here.

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Yoga Helps Manage Symptoms in Atrial Fibrillation Patients, New Study

AHA Publisher — Fri, 20 Nov 2020 08:00:36 +0000

Joy Jensen via NaturalHealth365 – Atrial fibrillation (sometimes referred to as AFib) affects an estimated 2.7 million Americans, and this heart rhythm disorder increases the risk of stroke, heart failure, blood clots, and additional complications. This point can’t be overemphasized: AFib isresponsible for between 20-30% of all strokes and can significantly increase the risk of premature death. Some of the symptoms of atrial fibrillation include shortness of breath, heart palpitations, irregular pulse, racing heart rate, chest pain, dizziness, and fatigue. These symptoms are often stressful for patients, resulting in anxiety and limiting their ability to lead normal lives. However, new research has found that practicing yoga regularly eases the symptoms associated with AFib. Got atrial fibrillation? Discover why the practice of yoga could prove to be a “lifesaver” Researchers decided to investigate whether yoga – which is known for offering many health benefits – would ease the symptoms of patients diagnosed with atrial fibrillation. More than 500 patients were enrolled in the study, and they started with 12 weeks of no yoga, monitoring patient symptoms. Then, patients did 30-minute yoga sessions, including breathing and postures, every other day for 16 weeks. During those 16 weeks, they were encouraged to practice the breathing and movements daily at home, too. Patients recorded their symptoms and AFib episodes in a diary during both the non-yoga and yoga periods. Certain patients wore heart monitors as well to verify any atrial fibrillation episodes. Each patient completed depression and anxiety surveys as well as a questionnaire that assessed their mood, energy levels, and ability to keep up with routine daily activities. Researchers also measured blood pressure and heart rate. At the end of the study, the outcomes between the non-yoga and yoga periods were compared. The yoga period resulted in significant improvements in every area when compared to the non-yoga period. Patients only experienced an average of eight AFib episodes during the yoga period compared to 15 during the shorter non-yoga period. Researchers also observed a significant reduction in blood pressure after patients went through yoga training. Beyond AFib: Additional health benefits of yoga According to researchers, this new study shows the wide range of mental health and physical benefits for patients diagnosed with A-fib. But yoga offers additional health benefits from which anyone can benefit. Some of the science-backed benefits include: Stress reduction: Studies show yoga decreases the production of the primary stress hormone, cortisol, and significantly lowers levels of anxiety and stress. Reduces inflammation: Researchers have found that practicing yoga regularly may reduce the markers of inflammation, a significant benefit since inflammation contributes to the development of diseases like cancer heart disease, and diabetes. Boosts heart health: Multiple studies show that yoga lowers pulse rate, blood pressure, and may even contribute to helping individuals lower their bad cholesterol levels. Fights depression: According to researchers, the ability of yoga to decrease cortisol production may create an antidepressant effect. Combats chronic pain: A growing body of research demonstrates that regular yoga practice may help reduce chronic pain associated with diseases like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. The main message of this article is clear: lifestyle changes can have a profound (positive) effect on heart health and overall wellbeing. Work with a qualified healthcare provider and enjoy the rewards of a healthy lifestyle. Sources for this article include: Sciencedaily.com, Heart.org, Healthline.com To read the original article click here. For more articles from NaturalHealth365 click here.

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Foods High in Vitamin D May Have Heart-Protective Effects

AHA Publisher — Fri, 10 Apr 2020 07:00:31 +0000

Wiley via News-Medical Net – Consuming foods high in vitamin D may have heart-protective effects, according to new research published in the Journal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics. The study was conducted during 2001-2012 and included 1,514 men and 1,528 women from the greater Athens area, in Greece. In the lowest, middle, and highest categories of vitamin D intake, cardiovascular events (such as heart attacks and strokes) occurred in 24%, 17%, and 12% of men and 14%, 10%, and 11% of women. In contrast with vitamin D supplementation trials that have shown modest to neutral beneficial effects on heart health, this study revealed that increased vitamin D intake from food sources may protect against heart-related problems, especially in men. To read the original article click here.

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