How To Improve Heart Health

Learn how to improve heart health with food, herbs and simple lifestyle changes. Since cardiac arrest is the number one cause of death in America, the importance of heart health should not be underestimated. Fortunately, there are ways to improve heart health safely and naturally, while also increasing overall well-being.

1. Eat heart-healthy foods. Focus on a high-fiber, low-fat diet that will discourage the release of harmful substances, which can lead to clogged arteries. Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, seafood, poultry, legumes, nutritional oils and low-fat dairy products should make up the bulk of your diet.
2. To improve heart health, you have to give up junk food. Processed products made with hydrogenated oils, preservatives and refined sugar and flour will raise bad cholesterol levels and introduce waste to the body. High-fat but natural foods, such as red meat, hard cheeses and butter, should only be eaten in moderation.
3. Improve heart health with herbs. Relaxing herbs such as lime blossom and passion flower will decrease stress and lower blood pressure. Ginger will increase blood flow and tone the circulatory system. Red clover and peppermint will help cleanse the body of toxins.  
4. Go for a walk. Regular, moderate exercise, such as a 30 minute walk or swim in the pool, will do wonders for the heart. Exercise improves circulation and strengthens the heart muscle.  
5. Reduce stress for a healthy heart. Make relieving anxiety and stress a greater priority than the things which cause tension in the first place. Take twenty minutes in the evening to do breathing exercises. Treat yourself to a massage or play with the kids. These activities will not only improve heart health, but they will also improve mental well-being.

Knowing how to improve heart health could potentially save your life. Be sure to see a doctor regularly to check blood pressure levels and monitor heart health. Do what is in your power for well-being.  

Resources:

Hoffmann, David. (1996). "The Complete Illustrated Holistic Herbal: A Safe and Practical Guide to Making and Using Herbal Remedies." (Element Books)

Balch, Phyllis, CNC. (2006). "Prescription for Nutritional Healing, 4th Edition." (The Penguin Group)