Reversing Heart Disease, Part 2

There are some holistic therapies notable for improving and maintaining good heart health based on the work of cardiologists Dr. Stephen Sinatra and Dr. James Roberts, and also experiential data, folklore, and time-tested indigenous wisdom handed down through many generations.

Apple cider vinegar (ACV) - I believe so many people are already familiar with this age-old remedy to maintain general good health, but it's worth noting the impact ACV has on lowering cholesterol based on anecdotal evidence. Comprehensive testimonies exist on sites such as EarthClinic.com, where repeatedly individuals remark about the cholesterol-lowering effects of regular ACV use.

Nattokinase – This enzyme, derived from a fermented Japanese food product called natto, has been found to have blood-clot-dissolving abilities. Clots comprise much of the content of plaque — the buildup in the arteries that causes them to harden and eventually constrict. The regular consumption of natto is believed to be the reason why there is such a low incidence of coronary heart disease in Japan. Drs. Sinatra and Roberts recommend this supplement as part of a heart-healthy regimen in their book, "Reverse Heart Disease Now." Dr. Ray Sahelian, however, cautions users to consult with their physician prior to implementing supplementation with nattokinase, especially for those who tend to take aspirin products, as the combination of the two can produce internal bleeding.

Cayenne pepper – Another favorite remedy among EarthClinic.com visitors for a variety of ailments, especially sore throats, this spice is believed to effectively improve cardiovascular function because of its ability to immediately affect blood circulation. Dick Quinn documented his incredible recovery from heart disease using cayenne, garlic, and other natural remedies in his book, "Left for Dead." A Native American remedy used for centuries, cayenne has many other purposeful applications, including pain relief in the form of capsaicin.

Vitamin D – A recent study suggests lack of vitamin D increases the risk of high blood pressure. Studies are currently being developed to determine if vitamin D supplementation could possibly reduce high blood pressure. Exposure to the sun for approximately 15 minutes per day has been recommended by medical experts for those individuals who wish to increase their body's vitamin D production for overall improved health and immune function.

CoQ10, L-carnitine, D-ribose, and magnesium – According to Drs. Sinatra and Roberts, these supplements support vital cellular function responsible for providing energy to living cells. Clogged arteries can interfere with heart muscles receiving the necessary vital energy for proper functioning, and these nutrients work to provide the missing ingredients to keep the muscles continually fed. (You can purchase all these supplements together in one product at Vitacost.com here)

CoQ10, proven effective in thousands of studies, is especially important because of its wide-ranging benefits such as:

• Prevents disease and slows down the aging process
• Helps patients with all forms of heart disease
• Reduces mild to moderate hypertension
• Generates energy, strength, and vitality, even for older people
• Fortifies the immune system against illness, including cancer
• Counteracts the adverse effects of cholesterol-lowering drugs (statins)
• Improves nervous system and brain disorders
• Protects against gum disease, a condition affecting most adults

Magnesium deficiency is very common due to lack of this nutrient in our food and because stress depletes it from our bodies. This mineral is also extremely important in the fight against heart disease for its ability to treat arterial disease, stroke, angina, heart attack, abnormal heart rhythms, cardiomyopathy and heart failure, high blood pressure, and mitral valve prolapse.

Other supplements recommended in "Reverse Heart Disease Now" include:

• Vitamins C, E, A, beta-carotene, and B complex – improves cellular function and aids healing
• Fish oil – Fights plaque development
• L-arginine – Promotes healthy cardiovascular tissues
• Phosphatidylcholine – Fights formation of clots, improves cell membrane function, and improves insulin resistance
• Garlic – Acts as an anti-inflammatory and reduces blood pressure and cholesterol, among improving other important cardiovascular factors
• Pomegranate juice – In one study it was found to reduce blood pressure and cholesterol and reduce the thickness in artery walls
• Vitamin K-2 – This nutrient is also found in natto; it improves bone density and counteracts arterial damage

And the book's dietary recommendations consist of:

• Low-glycemic vegetables, grains, and fresh fruits
• Foods high in antioxidants with lots of flavonoids: prunes, raisins, a variety of berries, plums, oranges, red grapes, cherries, kale, spinach, brussels sprouts, alfalfa sprouts, broccoli, beets, red bell peppers, onions, corn, and eggplant
• Green tea
• Omega-3 fatty acids
• More fish, less beef and dairy
• Olive oil
• Lower sodium intake
• Nuts and seeds
• Garlic
• Soy

Adding healthy lifestyle activities to improve your cardiovascular health is just as important as the food and nutrients you consume. One of these necessary activities, controlling stress, is easier than you think. Drs. Sinatra and Roberts say stress is not what happens to you — but rather how you react to what happens in your life. Here are some of their suggestions to successfully reduce it:

• Laugh more
• Give and receive affection
• Include meditation in your daily routine
• Adopt a spiritual (or religious) faith
• Include magnesium in your diet
• Adjust your attitude

In this article I've covered only a small amount of information from the "Reverse Heart Disease Now" book. My most important recommendation to anyone wishing to improve their quality of life is to read this book cover to cover. It's packed with so much useful advice that is eye opening, life changing, motivating, and easy to implement. If you suffer from moderate to severe cardiovascular disease it will serve as an important adjunct to your existing physician's established treatment (if you are already under a physician's care with prescription medications, be sure to get medical advice before initiating self-treatment). For young individuals, it will provide a beneficial proactive regimen for continued health and an extended, more enjoyable lifespan.

Associated web sites: Dr. Stephen Sinatra, Dr. James C. Roberts, Dr. Ray Sahelian, EarthClinic.com

Related books: Reverse Heart Disease Now, Left for Dead