Friday, March 21, 2008

INTERESTING HEART FACTS~~~~




Yoga~

Did you know practicing yoga on a regular basis can decrease blood pressure? I didn't, either. In fact, I was very surprised. But one study showed that the simple exercise can reduce your BP numbers. The top number (systolic blood pressure) by about 19 points and the bottom number (diastolic blood pressure) by about 13 points. This is what we hope to accomplish by administering medications to control blood pressure.

Think about that! If you actually perfomed yoga on a daily basis, you wouldn't have to take a medication for your blood pressure! Keep in mind, however, that you'd have to be closely monitored by your doctor when you chage anything in your medical regimen. There are other factors involved beside just the exercise and your need for medication may be linked to a risk factor that is beyond your control.

Whole Grain~
According to one study, if you eat whole grain cereals at least seven times a week, you have a 28% chance to lower your risk of heart failure. This is a very simple life-style change a person can make to help save his life. There is something to those Cheerios ads!

Energy Drinks~
Did you know that if you drink two energy drinks a day, it can increase blood pressure and heart rate levels? This is okay if you have a normal, healthy heart. But if you have high blood pressure and clogged arteries, the added stress on your heart can lead to big, big trouble--a severe heart attack or perhaps death related to heart disease. So be careful! Each patient is different, so if you aren't sure, check with your doctor to see what is right for you.

2 comments:

Emma Sanders said...

Actually, I did know that about yoga. I've been practicing it for a while, though lately I haven't been doing it and I notice a huge difference in the way I feel! It's not a good feeling, either. My body is tight and achy when I don't practice yoga!

Unknown said...

Yes, I imagine that getting out of the habit of doing something routine and good for you, you would feel a huge difference. Thanks for stopping by, Emma.