September Is Healthy Heart Month

This September, the Irish Heart Foundation will run the “ Her Heart Matters” campaign to spread awareness about the risk of heart disease and stroke in women.

1 in 4 women across the island of Ireland die of cardiovascular disease and 80% of premature heart disease and stroke can be prevented through a healthy lifestyle.

Test your knowledge with these three heart health myths and facts, and pick up some new tips to keep your ticker in tip-top shape.
 

If I’m a woman, I don’t need to worry about heart health

MYTH. Heart disease (including heart attacks) has been unfairly categorized as a male disease, but this simply isn’t true. Women can, and do, suffer from heart disease. Women who have diabetes are at an even greater risk of heart disease.
The hormonal changes that occur during menopause can bring increased cardiovascular risk in the form of higher blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Multiple studies show magnesium’s cardio-protective effects – including regulating blood pressure. It is quite difficult to get adequate dietary magnesium so supplementing will help support cardiovascular health.

A low fat diet will protect me from heart disease

MYTH. Let’s be clear: some types of fat, such as trans fats, found in processed foods, are very detrimental to heart health. Some fats, such as those found in a Mediterranean Diet, play a role in preventing heart disease – olive oil, coconut oil, oily fish, avocado as well as nuts and seeds.

Researchers have also found that a decrease in overall fat doesn’t mean a decrease in heart disease. Omega 3 healthy fats are essential for a healthy heart and reducing inflammation in the body. A heart friendly diet combined with fish oil supplementation will help keep cholesterol levels in check as we age.
 

Diet and exercise are the only lifestyle factors I can control

MYTH. There are a lot of factors we can take steps to control, from sleeping enough to lowering our stress levels. Even for those with heart disease in the family, it’s important to realize that we hold a lot of power, and lifestyle choices make a big difference.
 

Natural Support For Heart Health

There are many natural sleep supports available combined with good sleep habits which can make a big difference to overall health.  Blood pressure levels can increase due to bad sleeping patterns.  If stress is part of the problem with sleeping, Ashwagandha can be excellent for regulating hormones to provide a better sleep pattern.

Check out our full range of heart health supplements here