tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28492987328778518332024-03-13T15:51:19.686-07:00Everything you need to know about blood pressureMarinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09097158803593287909noreply@blogger.comBlogger127125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2849298732877851833.post-27945902374516028562012-07-06T21:47:00.000-07:002012-07-06T21:47:00.414-07:007 spices for lower blood pressure<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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High blood pressure is an epidemic that is currently sweeping across America. The fast lifestyle of fast food, soda and stress is starting to catch up on the average American, so much so that an estimated one in every three Americans has high blood pressure. This puts them at risk of heart disease, stroke and even kidney disease. Moreover, this condition is costing the country 93.5 billion dollars in health care services.<br /><br />Putting too much faith in the medical establishment to find a cure for your high blood pressure may no longer be advisable in the least. The number of prescription drugs on the market and the cascade of variations suggest that a cure for blood pressure is not in the offing anytime soon.<br /><br />Despite all the consequences associated with high blood pressure, it is still a condition that is preventable and easily managed. Observing a healthy balanced diet and enjoying an active, healthy lifestyle can help avoid the risk of high blood pressure as well as reduce one that is already elevated.<br /><br /><h1>
High blood pressure - A package of woe</h1>
There is no one identifiable cause for high blood pressure. A combination of factors like stress, alcohol, smoking, weight and lack of physical activity seem to have to come together to produce this problem, which is further compounded by family history and age.<br /><br />Although it is a condition that if left unattended could gravitate to something worse, high blood pressure is not a disease. Taking proactive measures in preventing heart diseases, stroke and even kidney disease by managing your blood pressure may be the best decision you can make today.<br /><br />While the idea of drug-free high blood pressure management through the use of herbs and spices has slowly been gaining ground, it is still treated with skepticism by the medical establishment. The reliance on prescription drugs, however, has not in any way shown that high blood pressure could be cured through this manner. There are still reports by patients who are currently using drugs to manage their high blood pressure that their condition has not shown any improvement, nor their quality of life. Instead, they have to deal with side effects and drugs that are expensive to maintain.<br /><br /><h1>
Spice up your life</h1>
In a published study featured in the <i>Journal of Medicine</i>, it was revealed that common spices can protect from heart disease and the deterioration brought about by aging. In the said study, researchers discovered a connection between the phenol content of certain herbs and spices and their capacity to prevent glycation and formation of AGE compounds that are responsible for premature aging and heart disease.<br /><br />As a way to manage your blood pressure, herbs and spices are a fantastic way to increase the medicinal value of your food. Below are some herbs and spices you may have been enjoying with no idea as to their value:<br /><br />1. <b>Garlic</b> - Garlic contains allicin, a substance which has antibacterial, antioxidant, lipid lowering and anti-hypertension properties. In a pilot study made at <i>Clinical Research Center of New Orleans</i> on whether garlic could lower blood pressure, nine patients with severe hypertension were given a garlic preparation containing 1.3 % allicin. Sitting blood pressure fell with a significant decrease in diastolic blood pressure only five to 14 hours after the dose. Moreover, it was proven in a 2009 study that fresh garlic has more potent cardio-protective properties than processed garlic.<br /><br />2. <b>Cinnamon</b> - Cinnamon not only prevents heart disease, it can also prevent diabetes. <i>The Center for Applied Health Sciences </i>in Ohio conducted a study of 22 subjects, half of which were given a 250mg of water soluble cinnamon daily while the other half were given placebo. It was discovered that those who drank cinnamon had a 13 to 23 percent increase in antioxidants connected with lowering blood sugar levels.<br /><br />3. <b>Onions</b> - Onions contain quercetin, an antioxidant flavonol found to prevent heart disease and stroke. In a research study published in the<i> Journal of Nutrition</i>, subjects with hypertension experienced a decrease in their blood pressure by 7mmHg systolic and 5 mmHg diastolic as opposed to those who were taking placebo.<br /><br />4. <b>Olives</b> - This herb is a significant part of the Mediterranean diet, recognized to be one of the healthiest in the world. Oil made from olives has been found to reduce blood pressure. In a study conducted on the importance of olive oil, Dr. L. Aldo Ferrara, Associate Professor at the <i>Frederico II University of Naples</i> in Italy discovered that the daily use of 40 grams of olive oil reduced the dosage of blood pressure medication in hypertensive patients by about 50 percent. Polyphenols in extra-virgin olive oil was credited for the significant reduction of blood pressure.<br /><br />5. <b>Oregano</b> - This herb contains the compound carvacrol which has been proven to be effective against blood pressure. In a study conducted on animal subjects, by researchers from <i>Eskisehir Osmangazi University</i> in Turkey, carvacrol was found to reduce heart rate, mean arterial pressure as well as the systolic and diastolic blood pressures.<br /><br />6. <b>Hawthorn </b>- This herb has been traditionally used to treat high blood pressure. In one study conducted in Reading, UK, 79 type-2 diabetic patients were randomized to receive 1200 mg of hawthorn extract while another group received medication for high blood pressure. Results revealed that patients taking hawthorn by the end of the 16th week showed a reduction in their mean diastolic pressure.<br /><br />7. <b>Cardamom</b>- In one study published in the <i>Indian Journal of Biochemistry and Biophysics</i>, 20 subjects newly diagnosed with primary hypertension were administered 3 g of cardamom powder. After the end of the 3 months, all the subjects experienced feelings of well-being without any side effects. Moreover, the study was able to demonstrate that blood pressure was effectively reduced. It also improved antioxidant status while breaking down blood clots without significantly altering blood lipids and fibrinogen levels.<br /><br />Taking advantage of the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of spices and herbs is an excellent way to boost your body's health. Herbs have low calorie content, increase the medicinal value of your food and allow you to use natural forms of lowering blood pressure. Mix them up with your soups, salads, fish and meat and vegetable dishes. It's a healthier and cheaper alternative to keeping bottles of prescription drugs and synthetic supplements.<br /><br /></div>
</div>Marinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09097158803593287909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2849298732877851833.post-81677148708489741512012-07-04T21:46:00.000-07:002012-07-04T21:46:00.224-07:00Heart healthy food that lowers blood pressure<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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The foods you eat bring pleasure to your palate and provide your body with powerful healing substances. Most people probably never consider that their morning grapefruit protects their blood vessels or that eating a handful of raw almonds daily can protect them from cancer. Certain heart-healthy foods have a reputation as natural cures to lower blood pressure, reduce symptoms of plaque and improve cardio fitness.<br /><br /><h1>
Animal proteins</h1>
Animal proteins like fresh fish and seafood are high in omega 3 oils, monounsaturated fats and calcium; all of these are helpful in reducing the risk of heart attack and managing high blood pressure problems.<br /><br />Dr. Liz Applegate, a nationally renowned expert on nutrition and fitness, has created a list of 22 heart-smart foods including clams and salmon, two animal proteins low in fat and calories and high in omega 3 oils and sterols. Clams, in particular, help the body resist the symptoms of plaque buildup. Salmon is high in monounsaturated fats and calcium, both helpful in keeping cholesterol plaque at bay and reducing the risk of heart attack.<br /><br /><h1>
Olive oil</h1>
Studies of women with high blood pressure who were placed on a diet rich in olive oil for one month showed a marked reduction in their blood pressure levels.<br /><br /><h1>
Raw milk cheese</h1>
Research indicates that people who have adequate calcium consumption tend to have more luck controlling their blood pressure levels. Raw milk cheeses are high in calcium and low in sodium, making them an excellent food to help with high blood pressure problems.<br /><br /><h1>
Vegetables</h1>
<i>Corn</i> is an excellent source of folic acid and vitamin B, which protect the arteries and reduce artherosclerosis.<br /><br /><i>Onions</i> and <i>avocados</i> prevent LDL or bad cholesterol from damaging blood vessel walls.<br /><br /><i>Tomatoes</i> are high in lycopene, a potent antioxidant that has produced significant results in lowering blood pressure in patients participating in an Israeli study conducted in 2006.<br /><br /><i>Garlic's</i> natural anti-inflammatory properties may prevent blood clots and improve overall cardio fitness.<br /><br /><i>Celery</i> is high in vital nutrients and minerals such as potassium, magnesium and calcium, all necessary components in foods that lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart attack. Eating the entire plant benefits the cardiovascular system.<br /><br />Choose only organic vegetables and fruits to avoid pesticides and hidden genetically modified plants that may not benefit your heart or your health.<br /><br /><h1>
Fresh fruits</h1>
Loaded with pectin, a natural fiber that binds to cholesterol and toxins in the blood, <i>apples</i> can clear the blood and lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels as much as 10 percent over a six-week period, notes Applegate.<br /><br /><i>Oranges</i> and lemons are high in potassium and fruit pectin. Both aid the body's regulation of blood pressure and reduce cholesterol plaque from arteries.<br /><br /><i>Grapefruit</i> supplies vitamin C, pectin, folic acid and lycopene, which help prevent symptoms of plaque by flushing LDL cholesterol from arteries and lessen high blood pressure problems.<br /><br /><h1>
Beans, legumes and whole grains</h1>
Both soluble and insoluble fiber are important for maintaining arterial integrity and controlling high blood pressure problems. Most beans provide soluble fiber, which is high in vitamin B and folic acid helping to reduce plaque and lower blood pressure. Whole grains like oats and oat bran flush unhealthy plaque from the system further protecting against the risk of heart attack and improving cardio fitness.<br /><br /><h1>
Chocolate</h1>
About 1/2 oz. of dark chocolate daily protects the heart and maintains blood pressure at normal levels. Rich in phenols, chocolate is now on the heart-smart menu for its nutrient-rich contribution that keeps arteries healthy.<br /><br /></div>
</div>Marinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09097158803593287909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2849298732877851833.post-1059242073465434092012-07-02T21:43:00.000-07:002012-07-02T21:43:00.231-07:00Special Diet Is as Effective as Drugs for Blood Pressure, Study Finds<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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A diet low in fat and rich in fruits and vegetables has been found for the first time to lower blood pressure quickly and as effectively as drugs, a new multicenter study has shown. <br />
The researchers said that many people who now must take medication to control their blood pressure could do so with the diet and without the drugs, which have unwanted side effects. <br />
Americans spend billions of dollars a year on blood pressure medications, said Dr. Edward Rocella, a hypertension specialist at the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute. <br />
The new study, described yesterday at the annual meeting of the American Heart Association in New Orleans, suggests that ''one diet may do it all'' -- help prevent high blood pressure, heart disease and many cancers, said Dr. Denise Simons-Morton, leader of the Prevention Scientific Research Group at the heart institute, one of the study's sponsors. <br />
The new study tested the effects of dietary changes in 459 adults at six medical centers. All had systolic blood pressures (the pressure when the heart beats) of less than 160 millimeters of mercury and diastolic pressures (the pressure when the heart rests) of 80 to 95 millimeters. About half were women, and nearly 60 percent were blacks, who have a higher rate of hypertension than whites. High blood pressure was defined as a pressure of 140 over 90 or higher. <br />
Participants were randomly divided into three groups. One ate a diet similar to what the average American adult now eats. A second group's diet was high in fruits and vegetables, with all other items remaining the same. The third group got a ''combination'' diet low in total fat, saturated fat and cholesterol but high in fruits, vegetables and low-fat dairy products. Total fats made up 27 percent of the participants' daily calories and saturated fats 6 percent, whereas in the average American diet fat makes up 34 percent of calories, with about 13 percent from saturated fats. All three diets contained a moderate amount of sodium and alcohol. <br />
The combination diet worked best. It reduced systolic blood pressure within two weeks by an average of 5.5 millimeters and diastolic pressure by an average of 3 millimeters of mercury. The diet that was high in just fruits and vegetables also proved beneficial, but less so. It reduced systolic pressures by an average of 2.8 millimeters and diastolic by 1.1 millimeters. Both reductions were medically significant. <br />
For those participants with hypertension, the combination diet was especially effective, lowering systolic pressure by 11.4 millimeters and diastolic by 5.5 millimeters, which is as good or better than reductions achieved with medication. <br />
Dr. Simon-Morton said the amount of fruits and vegetables in the two diets -- nine to 10 standard servings -- could actually be achieved by eating two American-sized portions at each of three meals and one fruit or vegetable as a snack each day. Fruits, vegetables and dairy products are rich in nutrients like potassium, magnesium and calcium that other studies have indicated can have a beneficial effect on blood pressure. <br />
The study was conducted at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, the Pennington Biomedical Research Center in Baton Rouge, La., Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School in Boston, and Duke University Medical Center in Durham, N.C., with the Kaiser Permanente Center for Health Research in Portland, Ore., serving as coordinator. </div>
</div>Marinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09097158803593287909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2849298732877851833.post-22069704100354594552012-06-29T21:42:00.000-07:002012-06-29T21:42:00.089-07:00Physical fitness may reduce hypertension risk in people with family history<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
If your parents have a history of high blood pressure, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing the disease with moderate exercise and increased cardiovascular fitness, according to new research in the American Heart Association’s journal <em>Hypertension.</em><br />
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In a study of more than 6,000 people, those who had a parent with high blood pressure but were highly fit had a 34 percent lower risk of developing high blood pressure themselves, compared to those with a low-fitness level who had the same parental history.</div>
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“Understanding the roles that family history and fitness play in chronic diseases is critically important,” said Robin P. Shook, M.S., study lead author and a doctoral graduate student in the Arnold School of Public Health at the University of South Carolina in Columbia. “The results of this study send a very practical message, which is that even a very realistic, moderate amount of exercise — which we define as brisk walking for 150 minutes per week — can provide a huge health benefit, particularly to people predisposed to hypertension because of their family history.”</div>
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Previous research indicates that parental history accounts for about 35 percent to 65 percent of the variability in blood pressure among offspring, with varying levels of risk based on which parent developed it and the age of onset.</div>
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Researchers followed a group of 6,278 predominantly Caucasian adults 20- to 80-years-old for an average 4.7 years. The participants were patients of the Cooper Clinic, a non-profit organization dedicated to preventive medicine, research and education in Dallas. Thirty-three percent of participants reported that a parent had hypertension.</div>
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When the study began, all participants were healthy, reported no physician diagnosis of hypertension, and achieved an exercise test score of at least 85 percent of their age-predicted maximal heart rate. Researchers determined participants’ cardiorespiratory fitness using a maximal treadmill exercise test.</div>
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During the study, 1,545 participants reported they had developed hypertension.</div>
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Researchers found that:</div>
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<li>Combining those with and without a family history of high blood pressure, high levels of fitness were associated with a 42 percent lower risk of developing hypertension, and moderate levels of fitness with a 26 percent lower risk.</li>
<li>People with both a low level of fitness and a parent with hypertension had a 70 percent higher risk for developing hypertension compared with highly fit people with no parental history.</li>
<li>Those with a high level of fitness and a parent with hypertension experienced only a 16 percent higher risk of developing hypertension compared to those who were fit and had no parental history.</li>
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“The correlation between fitness levels, parental history and risk are impossible to ignore,” Shook said. “This awareness can serve the clinician and the patient, as they work together to find effective and reasonable ways to avoid the diseases that have affected their family members — in some cases, for generations.”</div>
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The research findings may not apply to all people because the majority of the study participants were relatively fit, well-educated, middle to upper class white men.</div>
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The findings support the American Heart Association’s recommendations of moderately intense physical activity, such as brisk walking, for 30 minutes or longer at least five days a week.</div>
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Co-authors are Duck-chul Lee, Ph.D.; Xumei Sui, M.D., M.P.H.; Vivek Prasad, M.B.B.S.; Steven P. Hooker, Ph.D.; Timothy S. Church, M.D., M.P.H., Ph.D. and Steven N. Blair, P.E.D. Author disclosures are on the manuscript.</div>
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The National Institutes of Health and an unrestricted research grant from The Coca-Cola Company funded the study.</div>
</div>Marinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09097158803593287909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2849298732877851833.post-71983230490737894962012-06-27T21:40:00.000-07:002012-06-27T21:40:00.058-07:00Doctors sometimes over-treat blood pressure: study<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
A new study suggests veterans hospitals are following guidelines when it comes to treating patients with diabetes and high blood pressure -- but some diabetics with healthy readings may also be getting intensive blood pressure treatment that won't do them much good.<br />
"Good control of blood pressure is important for decreasing bad outcomes for patients (with diabetes), such as heart attacks and kidney disease," said Dr. Eve Kerr, the study's lead author from the Department of Veterans Affairs Ann Arbor Healthcare System and the University of Michigan.<br />
Doctors have gotten very good at making sure everyone at risk gets treated with blood pressure medications, she added. But some patients who needed blood pressure medications to begin with might end up not needing them later on.<br />
"Sometimes when blood pressure gets too low, it's okay to back off," Kerr told Reuters Health.<br />
Her team examined the medical records of close to one million diabetes patients treated at VA medical centers and outpatient clinics.<br />
The vast majority of patients age 18 to 75 -- 94 percent -- either had normal blood pressure or were getting high blood pressure treated according to guidelines.<br />
That means most diabetic veterans are getting the help they need when it comes to high blood pressure monitoring and treatment. But although under-treating blood pressure may not have been a big problem in the VA group, over-treatment seemed to be at least as common, if not more so, the researchers found.<br />
More than one-third of patients treated at the VA with a blood pressure below 130/65 mm Hg were on at least three blood pressure lowering drugs, or were having their drug regimen increased. That was equal to eight percent of all diabetic veterans.<br />
High blood pressure is considered to be 140/90 mm Hg or higher, according to the National Institutes of Health.<br />
Depending on the hospital, between three and 20 percent of diabetic veterans were possibly being over-treated with blood pressure medications, Kerr and her colleagues reported Monday in the Archives of Internal Medicine.<br />
Not only might those drugs be unnecessary, but they could cause problems for patients as well, researchers said.<br />
"You don't want to put patients on medications unnecessarily, because there's risks with any medication -- whether it's a nuisance risk of a dry mouth or it could be potentially more serious, like making your blood pressure too low and having you more at risk for falls," said Eileen Handberg, a cardiology researcher from the University of Florida in Gainesville.<br />
"You don't want to treat someone's blood pressure to the point that they're weak and dizzy because their blood pressure is too low," Handberg, who wrote a commentary published with the study, told Reuters Health.<br />
She said guidelines don't currently set a lower limit for recommended blood pressure in diabetic patients -- and because of that, it's hard to say doctors in this study were doing anything wrong when they prescribed more blood pressure lowering drugs to people who might not have needed them.<br />
Still, Handberg added, "There is a lot of conversation about, maybe lower isn't always better."<br />
One limitation of the new study is that it can't show whether patients were actually harmed by their blood pressure getting too low, said Dr. Franz Messerli, director of the high blood pressure program at St. Luke's-Roosevelt Hospital in New York.<br />
"We don't know whether over-treatment or under-treatment increased heart attack, stroke or death, and that's obviously the important issue," Messerli, who wasn't involved in the research, told Reuters Health.<br />
Kerr said the new study can help inform future guideline-makers about how diabetic patients are currently being treated -- and how often too much blood pressure treatment might be a concern.<br />
Researchers agreed that patients who find their blood pressure numbers dropping very low or who have side effects such as dizziness should talk with their doctors about their blood pressure and the possibility they can ease off aggressive treatment.</div>Marinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09097158803593287909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2849298732877851833.post-41909093599498382792012-06-25T21:38:00.000-07:002012-06-26T06:11:16.746-07:009 in 10 Blacks With High Blood Pressure Have Early Heart Disease<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
High blood pressure is strongly associated with heart disease in black Americans, new research shows.<br />
In the study, published online May 31 in the <i>Annals of Emergency Medicine</i>, researchers looked at 161 people who came to a single emergency department. More than 93 percent of the patients were black. None had symptoms or a history of heart disease but 94 percent had a history of high blood pressure, or "hypertension."<br />
Echocardiograms (an image of the heart) revealed that nearly 91 percent of the patients had the beginnings of heart disease despite the lack of symptoms. Most of the patients with heart disease had diastolic dysfunction, which means that the heart had a reduced ability to pump blood to the body, brain and lungs.<br />
"These results present a tremendous opportunity to screen for heart disease before it becomes symptomatic, especially in a population with high rates of hypertension," lead author Dr. Phillip Levy, of the department of emergency medicine at Wayne State University in Detroit, said in a journal news release.<br />
"If we can detect incipient [early] heart disease early, we have a better shot at treating it before it turns into a full-blown health emergency. Our study is also a strong reminder that emergency patients with chronic disease -- in this case, hypertension -- are generally a high-risk group," he noted.<br />
Levy urged emergency physicians to address high blood pressure with patients. "Blood pressure readings are taken for every patient in the [emergency department]. By not just taking in new information but also acting on it, we can substantively contribute to . . . disease prevention efforts," he said.</div>Marinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09097158803593287909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2849298732877851833.post-76555264086292034182012-06-22T21:35:00.000-07:002012-06-22T21:35:00.398-07:00Despite obesity rise, kids' blood pressure dipped<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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The rate of childhood obesity may have soared between the 1970s and 90s, but kids' blood pressure did not follow the same trend, a U.S. government study suggests.<br />
Researchers at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found that while the obesity rate among Louisiana children nearly tripled between 1974 and 1993, their blood pressure actually improved a bit.<br />
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Among nearly 11,500 children and teens assessed over those 20 years, the rate of obesity rose from 6 percent to 17 percent. <br />
But their blood pressure, on average, remained fairly stable. And far fewer children than expected actually had high blood pressure by 1993: about 4 percent of boys and 6 percent of girls.<br />
By comparison, those numbers were about 6 percent and 8 percent, respectively, in 1974.<br />
None of that means that obesity is harmless to kids, said lead researcher David S. Freedman, of the CDC's division of nutrition, physical activity and obesity.<br />
"Maybe the biggest problem is that obese children usually become obese adults," said Freedman. Past research, he noted, has found that about 75 percent of obese kids are obese as adults as well.<br />
And at that point, obesity carries an increased risk of chronic conditions like type 2 diabetes, heart disease and arthritis.<br />
<b>Height related to blood pressure</b><br />
In the U.S., obesity -- in adults and kids, alike -- had its biggest surge between the 1970s and 90s, Freedman said.<br />
Since then, things have leveled off. Among teenagers, for example, the obesity rate hovered between 18 and 20 percent in the decade between 1999 and 2008, according to another recent CDC study.<br />
Blood pressure does tend to rise along with body mass index (BMI) -- a measure of weight in relation to height.<br />
But studies have had mixed findings on whether the rise in childhood obesity spurred any increase in kids' blood pressure.<br />
A problem with some past research, according to Freedman, is that it failed to account for the fact that kids have also gotten taller over the years. Height, Freedman said, is a stronger influence over kids' blood pressure than is weight.<br />
"I think the take-home from this study is that we should not necessarily assume that increases in childhood obesity will be associated with changes in every risk factor," Freedman said.<br />
<b>Better nutrition?</b><br />
So why didn't blood pressure rise along with kids' weight?<br />
This study, published in the journal Pediatrics, cannot show the reason, Freedman said. In theory, he noted, it could have to do something with improvements in early childhood nutrition -- including rising breastfeeding rates. But that's speculation for now.<br />
One area where kids are not doing better is type 2 diabetes.<br />
Last month, a CDC study found that among U.S. teenagers, the prevalence of type 2 diabetes and "pre-diabetes" -- a precursor to type 2 -- rose from 9 percent in 1999-2000, to 23 percent in 2007-2008.<br />
Type 2 diabetes is closely associated with obesity. But the rise in teen diabetes came at a time when the obesity rate held steady. The CDC researchers were not sure of the reasons.<br />
But they said the bottom line for parents and kids remains the same: Eat a balanced diet and get regular exercise.<br />
The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, a government-backed panel, recommends that children age 6 and older be screened for obesity. If a child is heavy, pediatricians should offer families behavioral counseling, or refer them to someone who can.<br />
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</div>Marinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09097158803593287909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2849298732877851833.post-2818951757852539072012-06-20T21:33:00.000-07:002012-06-20T21:33:00.545-07:00Soy supplement shows no blood pressure benefit<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Soy-rich diets have been linked to lower rates of heart disease, but a small study suggests that soy supplements may not do anything for older women's blood pressure.<br />
The findings, reported in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, add to the mixed evidence on the health benefits of soy isoflavones -- compounds that are thought to have weak estrogen-like effects in some body tissue.<br />
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Researchers have long known that Asian populations with soy-rich diets have lower rates of heart disease compared with people who eat "Western" diets.<br />
But it has not been clear whether soy isoflavone supplements have cardiovascular benefits, like cutting blood pressure or cholesterol levels.<br />
A number of studies have found that intravenous infusions of soy isoflavones may boost the body's production of nitric oxide and help blood vessels dilate.<br />
"But we don't take soy by infusion," said William Wong, a nutrition researcher at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston who led the new study.<br />
On top of that, he told Reuters Health, those studies looked at short-term effects on blood vessel function -- and not whether there are "sustained" benefits for blood pressure.<br />
‘DISAPPOINTING' RESULTS<br />
So for their study, Wong and his colleagues randomly assigned 24 menopausal women to take either soy isoflavones or placebo tablets for six weeks. The supplement gave a daily dose of 80 milligrams of isoflavones.<br />
All of the women started the study with moderately elevated blood pressure.<br />
After six weeks, Wong's team found, women on the soy supplement were faring no better than those on the placebo.<br />
On average, systolic blood pressure was 136 mm/Hg in the placebo group, and 137 mm/Hg in the soy group. Systolic blood pressure is the first number in a blood-pressure reading; levels of 140 mm/Hg or above are considered high.<br />
As for diastolic blood pressure, the average in both groups landed at about 80 mm/Hg -- the upper threshold of "normal."<br />
Wong's team also did special blood tests to see whether the soy supplement affected the women's production of nitric oxide, a chemical that dilates blood vessels. They found no effect.<br />
"It was disappointing," Wong said.<br />
The study only lasted for six weeks. But according to Wong, that should have been long enough to detect blood pressure benefits if there are any.<br />
"If we didn't see anything in six weeks, we doubt there would be effects (longer term)," Wong said.<br />
"I think that if people are looking for a magic bullet against high blood pressure," he added, "this is not it."<br />
That said, getting more soy foods in your diet -- especially starting at a young age -- could be a healthy move, according to Wong.<br />
He speculated that the health benefits linked to soy in Asian populations may be the result of a lifetime of eating those foods. Taking supplements later in life, he said, may simply not cut it.<br />
"Maybe it has to be long-term exposure to soy products," Wong said.<br />
For now, the mainstream treatment for high blood pressure is to start by eating a healthy diet low in sodium and high in fruits and vegetables, and get regular exercise. If you're overweight, losing some pounds can lower your blood pressure.<br />
Many people for whom lifestyle approaches aren't enough also take blood pressure medications.<br />
</div>
</div>Marinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09097158803593287909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2849298732877851833.post-47421342534378546992012-06-18T21:27:00.000-07:002012-06-18T21:27:00.326-07:00Americans Becoming Lax About High Blood Pressure<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
In a surprising reversal of longtime health gains, fewer adult Americans are aware they have high blood pressure, fewer are getting effective therapy, and more are dying as a result, Federal health officials said here today in issuing new treatment guidelines for the ailment, which affects 50 million Americans. <br />
Over the last 25 years, therapies to fight high blood pressure have led to significant declines in deaths from stroke and coronary heart disease. But the latest health statistics show a rise in severe kidney disease and heart failure, a slight rise in the rate of stroke, and a leveling in the death rate for Americans with coronary heart disease. These conditions often occur as complications of longstanding high blood pressure, which is also called hypertension. <br />
The reason for the abrupt reversal is not known, Federal health officials and experts in high blood pressure said at a news conference. But they said contributing factors could be an increase in obesity, growing complacency among doctors and patients about high blood pressure, a large number of patients who stop drug therapy because of unwanted effects like decreased sexual interest and fatigue, and lack of effective communication to the public. <br />
''We are very concerned to see this decline in awareness and control,'' said Dr. Claude Lenfant, the director of the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, a Federal agency in Bethesda, Md. Dr. Lenfant and Dr. Edward J. Roccella, who is in charge of the Government's education program on high blood pressure, said the institute was developing new public announcements and a research program intended to improve compliance with therapy, which generally has to be lifelong. <br />
The institute released data today from a national survey conducted from 1991 through 1994 by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention showing that 68.4 percent of Americans with high blood pressure were aware they had the ailment, 53.6 percent were being treated for it, and 27.4 percent had it under adequate control. The target blood pressure level is less than 140/90 mm of mercury. All three figures were down from a similar survey conducted from 1988 to 1991, which showed 73 percent were aware, 55 percent were being treated, and 29 percent had their blood pressure adequately controlled. <br />
Officials had expected the positive trend of the last 20 years to continue, and the reversal, though small, is a challenge to the Government's longstanding goal to control high blood pressure in 50 percent of affected Americans by 2000. <br />
Dr. Roccella said that goal was still realistic, that the Government had met eight of its nine objectives in hypertension control in 1990 and that ''we're optimistic about meeting'' the 50 percent goal in 2000. But Dr. Michael H. Alderman, president of the American Society of Hypertension, said, ''We are failing to achieve our national objective in controlling high blood pressure.'' <br />
Millions of taxpayer dollars have been spent on controlling high blood pressure, Dr. Alderman said, and ''progress has stopped, and the report did not explore why that happened.'' Dr. Alderman heads the department of preventive medicine at Albert Einstein College of Medicine in the Bronx. <br />
Dr. Alderman, was one of five experts who resigned for various reasons from the group of more than 100 experts who contributed to the report. Dr. Alderman left because he disagreed with the report's discussion of a class of drugs. This section was unrelated to the main conclusions of the report. <br />
The new guidelines are the sixth in a series dating to 1972 from the heart institute. The latest were developed with the cooperation of 38 national professional, public, and voluntary health organizations and 6 other Federal agencies. <br />
Untreated high blood pressure is a major contributor to heart disease, the leading cause of death among Americans, and strokes, the third leading cause of death. Federal officials have credited the earlier reports for helping to reduce the adverse impact of high blood pressure. <br />
Dr. Sheldon G. Sheps, who headed a committee of experts that wrote the report for the institute said that two-thirds of the reduction in deaths from strokes among African American women in recent years and half the reduction in stroke deaths among white women was attributable to improved blood pressure control. <br />
The new guidelines strongly encourage weight loss, exercise and changes in diet to prevent high blood pressure among all people. Such life style changes can work as the only therapy for some people with high blood pressure and an adjunct to other treatments for everyone with high blood pressure. <br />
The guidelines say those with the mildest form of high blood pressure (140 to 149 systolic, or top number, and 90 to 99 diastolic, bottom number) could try changing life style without drug therapy for up to a year under vigilant blood pressure monitoring. <br />
Such changes include weight reduction of at least 10 pounds; 30 to 45 minutes of aerobic activity on most days; intake of no more than a teaspoon of salt a day including that in processed foods; and increased potassium intake. But care must be taken by those with kidney disease because of potential dangers in the potassium intake. <br />
For the first time, the guidelines endorse a specific diet. One rich in fruits, vegetables and low-fat dairy foods, and with reduced saturated and total fats, could significantly lower blood pressure for all Americans, the report said. <br />
For first-line therapy for individuals with uncomplicated high blood pressure, the guidelines recommended drugs from the diuretic and beta-blocker classes. Different types of drugs may be indicated for those with certain conditions like diabetes or heart failure. <br />
A major challenge is to improve adherence to therapy. Without providing specific figures, Dr. Rocella said that ''there are more people who have been in treatment for high blood pressure who have dropped out than who are on therapy.'' </div>Marinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09097158803593287909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2849298732877851833.post-67145993167112446732012-06-16T21:25:00.001-07:002012-06-16T21:31:07.587-07:00How Grapefruit Juice Makes Some Pills More Powerful<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
FOR four years, the patient was one of Dr. Paul Pizarik's bigger problems: a 63-year-old Arizona man with heart, lung and kidney disease, and blood pressure that stayed dangerously high despite combinations of a half-dozen different advanced medications. <br />
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And then suddenly, to Dr. Pizarik's great surprise, the man's pressure dropped into perfect control. It had been magically reduced by nothing more complicated than a six-ounce glass of grapefruit juice that the patient had decided to add to his morning pills. <br />
A few weeks later, his pressure plunged so low that his medication had to be changed all over again. <br />
Researchers have known since 1989 that when some of the common blood-pressure pills called calcium-channel blockers were washed down with grapefruit juice, far more of the drugs reached the blood than when they were taken with a swallow of water instead. But it is a piece of information that has passed many doctors and patients by, even though the interaction has now been reproduced for other drugs. The effect may be so striking that some scientists are now calling for warning labels about the effects of grapefruit juice on pill bottles to prevent accidental drug overdoses. Others have hastened to patent the chemicals involved and are planning to incorporate them into new combination pills. <br />
''We are harnessing the power of the grapefruit,'' said Dr. Paul B. Watkins, a professor of medicine at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, whose research recently clarified why grapefruit alone among citrus fruits appears to make some pills more powerful. <br />
The handful of drugs now known to be involved include some common and potent ones, among them Plendil (felodipine) for high blood pressure and heart disease, Seldane (terfenadine) for allergies, Sandimmune (cyclosporine) to prevent rejection of transplanted organs, and Invirase (saquinavir) for treating AIDS. <br />
What these diverse substances have in common is their fate after they pass through the stomach. Unlike other drugs that are absorbed directly from the intestine into the bloodstream, these are first extensively broken down by an enzyme in the wall of the small intestine. <br />
In research published in The Journal of Clinical Investigation in May, Dr. Watkins and his colleagues showed that grapefruit juice appeared to remove large amounts of that enzyme from the intestinal wall. The result is that less of the drug is broken down, more remains in the intestine and more is then absorbed into the bloodstream over a longer period, just as if the patient had actually swallowed a higher drug dose. The specific causes appear to be chemicals in the juice called furanocoumarins or psoralens that function like ''little suicide bombers,'' attaching to the enzyme and damaging it so badly that the entire complex disappears from the cell. <br />
But the amount of the enzyme in the intestinal wall varies greatly among people, Dr. Watkins said, which explains why the grapefruit juice effect may be serious for some people and unimportant for others. It probably makes very little difference if people with relatively low levels of the intestinal enzyme take their medicine with grapefruit juice or with water. But for others with a great deal of the enzyme, an unaccustomed glass of juice in the morning may send enzyme levels plummeting and drug levels soaring as much as ninefold. <br />
Dr. J. David Spence at the Roberts Research Institute in London, Ontario, thinks this is what may have happened to a Michigan man who died in 1993 with toxic blood levels of Seldane after drinking two glasses of grapefruit juice. ''The problem is that juice is taken intermittently,'' he said. ''And grocers don't take a drug history when they sell it.'' <br />
Seldane blood levels are increased not only by grapefruit juice but also by many common prescription drugs, and serious heart problems may result. Although the drug is under new scrutiny by the Food and Drug Administration for its toxicity, it remains available by prescription in this country and is sold over the counter in Canada. In new prescribing information supplied to doctors only last month, Seldane's manufacturer, Hoechst-Marion-Roussel, added grapefruit juice to the list of substances that should not be taken with it. <br />
Although information about grapefruit juice accompanies other affected drugs, it is printed in the tiny type reserved for doctors and pharmacists and seldom makes it out onto the patient's pill bottle. Many other drugs have never been specifically tested for grapefruit juice interactions. <br />
The effect of a glass of grapefruit juice on drug levels lasts a day or more, and it increases over time, Dr. Spence cautioned. He favors a practice now routine in parts of Australia of affixing specific grapefruit juice warnings to pill bottles if an interaction is known or might be expected. <br />
Other experts feel that chances of drug overdoses from a breakfast containing grapefruit are too small to warrant major public concern. ''These are generally safe drugs,'' Dr. Watkins said. ''I just tell patients, if you're used to taking your medicines with juice, keep doing it. If you're not, don't start.'' <br />
In fact, the danger of grapefruit juice impresses many scientists less than does its ability to augment drug effects cheaply and palatably without the need for larger doses. <br />
Dr. Leslie Benet, chairman of the department of biopharmaceuticals at the University of California at San Francisco, has founded a corporation called Avmax to evaluate and market substances like those in grapefruit juice that inhibit intestinal enzymes, making drugs more available to the body with less person-to-person variability. His company has licensed one of the patented chemicals responsible for the effect in grapefruit, and is beginning studies combining it with several prescription drugs. <br />
Other doctors just direct patients to the supermarket. Like many doctors who treat AIDS, Dr. Nereida Ferran, an internist at Beth Israel Hospital in New York, routinely advises her patients taking Invirase for H.I.V. infection to take it with grapefruit juice. ''The blood levels of the drug increase at least twofold,'' she said. ''Many of my patients are doing very, very well on what is supposed to be one of the weaker H.I.V. drugs.'' <br />
And Dr. Pizarik remains aware of grapefruit's double-edged potential. Over time, his patient's initially elevated blood pressure dropped so low with grapefruit juice that the man almost went into shock. <br />
''He became pretty pale and pasty-looking,'' said Dr. Pizarik, who has not given grapefruit juice to any other patients. ''I don't know that I'd recommend it again until more studies are done.'' </div>Marinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09097158803593287909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2849298732877851833.post-10342941536740916402012-05-16T23:28:00.000-07:002012-05-16T23:28:00.212-07:00Choosing blood pressure medications<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Choosing the right high blood pressure medication can be tricky. Find out which of the various drug options is appropriate for you. </h2>
Dozens of high blood pressure medications (antihypertensives) are available, each with pros and cons. Depending on how high your blood pressure is, your doctor may prescribe one or more high blood pressure medications to treat your condition. For everyone who has high blood pressure or is at risk of developing high blood pressure, lifestyle changes can help keep your numbers under control. Before beginning blood pressure treatment, it's a good idea to understand the options available to you. <br />
<h2>
Lifestyle changes</h2>
Whether you're on the road to developing high blood pressure (prehypertension) or you already have high blood pressure (hypertension), you can benefit from lifestyle changes that can lower your blood pressure. People who have prehypertension have a systolic pressure (top number) ranging from 120 to 139 millimeters of mercury (mm Hg) or a diastolic pressure (bottom number) ranging from 80 to 89 mm Hg. <br />
Even if your doctor prescribes medications to control your blood pressure, he or she will likely recommend you make lifestyle changes as well. Lifestyle changes can reduce or eliminate your need for medications to control your blood pressure. To make these changes: <br />
<ul>
<li>Don't smoke</li>
<li>Eat a healthy diet, focusing on fruits, vegetables and low-fat dairy products, and especially, control the salt in your diet</li>
<li>Maintain a healthy weight</li>
<li>Exercise by getting 30 minutes of moderate activity — even if you need to break up your activity into three 10-minute sessions — on most days of the week</li>
<li>Limit the amount of alcohol you drink — one drink a day for women and two a day for men</li>
</ul>
You probably won't need to take high blood pressure medications if you have prehypertension and are otherwise healthy. However, if you have prehypertension and diabetes, kidney disease or heart disease, your doctor might prescribe medications to lower your blood pressure to a more desirable level. <br />
<h2>
Medication options for stage 1 high blood pressure (140/90 to 159/99)</h2>
If you have stage 1 high blood pressure, you have a systolic pressure ranging from 140 to 159 mm Hg or a diastolic pressure ranging from 90 to 99 mm Hg. If both numbers are in this range, you also have stage 1 high blood pressure. The first change you can make is to adopt healthy lifestyle changes to help decrease your numbers. Your doctor will likely prescribe medications, as well. <br />
<strong>Diuretics (water pills)</strong>Your doctor may first suggest diuretics — also called water pills. Diuretics work by flushing excess water and sodium from the body, thus lowering blood pressure, which may be enough along with lifestyle changes to control your blood pressure. <br />
Although three types of diuretics are available, the first choice is usually a thiazide diuretic. Thiazide diuretics typically have fewer side effects than do other types of diuretics. They also offer strong protection against conditions that high blood pressure can cause, such as stroke and heart failure. <br />
<strong>Other medications</strong>A diuretic may be the only high blood pressure medication you need. But under some circumstances, your doctor may also recommend another medication or may add another medication. Those choices include: <br />
<ul>
<li><strong>Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors.</strong> These allow blood vessels to widen by preventing a hormone called angiotensin from affecting blood vessels. Frequently prescribed ACE inhibitors include captopril (Capoten), lisinopril (Prinivil, Zestril) and ramipril (Altace).</li>
<li><strong>Angiotensin II receptor blockers.</strong> These help blood vessels relax by blocking the action of angiotensin. Frequently prescribed angiotensin II receptor blockers include losartan (Cozaar), olmesartan (Benicar) and valsartan (Diovan).</li>
<li><strong>Beta blockers.</strong> These work by blocking certain nerve and hormonal signals to the heart and blood vessels, thus lowering blood pressure. Frequently prescribed beta blockers include metoprolol (Lopressor, Toprol XL), nadolol (Corgard) and penbutolol (Levatol).</li>
<li><strong>Calcium channel blockers.</strong> These prevent calcium from going into heart and blood vessel muscle cells, thus causing the cells to relax, which lowers blood pressure. Frequently prescribed calcium channel blockers include amlodipine (Norvasc), diltiazem (Cardizem, Dilacor XR) and nifedipine (Adalat, Procardia).</li>
<li><strong>Renin inhibitors.</strong> Renin is an enzyme produced by your kidneys that starts a chain of chemical steps that increases blood pressure. Aliskiren (Tekturna) slows down the production of renin, reducing its ability to begin this process. Due to a risk of serious complications, including stroke, you shouldn't take aliskiren with ACE inhibitors or ARBs.</li>
</ul>
Adding one of these medications can lower your blood pressure more quickly than can taking only a diuretic. This may reduce the risk of developing complications from high blood pressure. Combining two medications of different classes may allow you to take a smaller dose of each, which can reduce side effects and perhaps be less expensive. The choice of medications in combination depends on your individual circumstances.<br />
<br />
<h2>
Medication options for stage 2 high blood pressure (higher than 160/100)</h2>
If you have stage 2 high blood pressure, you have a systolic pressure of 160 mm Hg or higher or a diastolic pressure of 100 mm Hg or higher or both. In this case, you'll likely need to take at least two high blood pressure medications when you start treatment. <br />
As with stage 1 hypertension, your doctor will likely prescribe a thiazide diuretic. Diuretics work by flushing excess water and sodium from the body, thus lowering your blood pressure. Along with a diuretic, your doctor may recommend that you also take: <br />
<ul>
<li><strong>ACE inhibitors.</strong> This medication helps blood vessels relax by blocking the production of a hormone that causes blood vessels to narrow. Frequently prescribed ACE inhibitors include captopril (Capoten), lisinopril (Prinivil, Zestril) and ramipril (Altace).</li>
<li><strong>Angiotensin II receptor blockers.</strong> This medication allows blood vessels to widen by preventing a hormone called angiotensin from affecting vessels. Frequently prescribed angiotensin II receptor blockers include losartan (Cozaar), olmesartan (Benicar) and valsartan (Diovan).</li>
<li><strong>Beta blockers.</strong> This class of drugs works by blocking certain nerve and hormonal signals to the heart and blood vessels, thus lowering blood pressure. Frequently prescribed beta blockers include metoprolol (Lopressor, Toprol XL), nadolol (Corgard) and penbutolol (Levatol).</li>
<li><strong>Calcium channel blockers.</strong> This medication prevents calcium from going into heart and blood vessel muscle cells, thus causing the cells to relax, which lowers blood pressure. Frequently prescribed calcium channel blockers include amlodipine (Norvasc), diltiazem (Cardizem, Dilacor XR) and nifedipine (Adalat, Procardia).</li>
<li><strong>Renin inhibitors.</strong> Renin is an enzyme produced by your kidneys that starts a chain of chemical steps that increases blood pressure. Aliskiren (Tekturna) slows down the production of renin, reducing its ability to begin this process. Due to a risk of serious complications, including stroke, you shouldn't take aliskiren with ACE inhibitors or ARBs.</li>
</ul>
If none of these medications is effective in lowering your blood pressure, your doctor may recommend another medication, such as an alpha blocker, central-acting agent or vasodilator. These medications are strong and may cause more side effects than may other blood pressure medications. <br />
When your blood pressure is very high, it's important to reduce it quickly to prevent or delay complications, such as damage to your arteries, heart failure or kidney damage. A two-drug combination generally works faster than does a single drug to get your blood pressure under control. Sometimes a third medication, or more, may be needed to achieve your blood pressure goal. <br />
<h2>
High blood pressure and other health problems</h2>
High blood pressure often goes hand in hand with other health problems. If you have a serious health condition in addition to high blood pressure, it's likely you'll need aggressive treatment. Those conditions include: <br />
<ul>
<li>Heart failure</li>
<li>Previous heart attack</li>
<li>High risk of coronary artery disease</li>
<li>Enlarged or thickened left chamber of the heart (left ventricular hypertrophy)</li>
<li>Diabetes</li>
<li>Chronic kidney disease</li>
<li>Previous stroke</li>
</ul>
High blood pressure itself puts you at higher risk of having one of these conditions. If you already have one or more of these conditions plus high blood pressure, your chance of developing a life-threatening complication increases. A more aggressive treatment approach may reduce your risk of these complications. <br />
Your doctor may recommend specific high blood pressure medications to treat these conditions, as well as additional medications for your high blood pressure. For example, if you have chest pain (angina), your doctor may recommend a beta blocker, which can lower your blood pressure and also prevent your chest pain, reduce your heart rate and decrease your risk of death. If you have diabetes and high blood pressure, taking a diuretic plus an ACE inhibitor can decrease your risk of heart attack and stroke. If you have diabetes, high blood pressure and kidney disease, you may need to add additional medications to the mix, such as an angiotensin II receptor blocker. <br />
<h2>
Keep trying to reach your blood pressure goal</h2>
Sometimes high blood pressure can be difficult to treat. If your high blood pressure doesn't decrease despite taking at least three different types of high blood pressure drugs, one of which should be a diuretic, you may have resistant hypertension. Resistant hypertension is blood pressure that's resistant to treatment. People who have controlled high blood pressure and are taking four different types of medications at the same time to achieve that control also are considered to have resistant hypertension. <br />
It's not unusual to try several different medications or doses before finding what works best for you. In fact, if you and your doctor can identify what's behind your persistently high blood pressure, there's a good chance you can meet your goal with the help of treatment that's more effective. Home monitoring of your blood pressure can help your doctor decide if your blood pressure treatment is working, or if a different dose or medication is necessary. <br />
In most cases, a combination of lifestyle changes and medication can help you successfully control your blood pressure. Once that's done, your doctor may recommend a gradual decrease in medications while monitoring the effect on your blood pressure; however, don't attempt to do this on your own. <br />
Keeping your blood pressure under control may take some time, but in the long run it may mean a longer life, with fewer health problems</div>Marinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09097158803593287909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2849298732877851833.post-89796551317200327482012-05-14T01:00:00.000-07:002012-05-14T01:00:01.130-07:00Add chlorella to your diet - 4 reasons why<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Chlorella is a green algae that is considered to be one of the most powerful superfoods known to man. Chlorella contains vasts amount of chlorophyll within its cell walls. The cell walls of chlorella are tough and indigestible, so many chlorella producers break the cell walls before selling the product. Broken cell chlorella releases the nutrients inside the cell walls so the human body can use them. Besides being possibly the richest source of chlorophyll on Earth, chlorella is also very high in plant protein. Chlorella contains fifty-eight grams of protein per one hundred grams of weight. By comparison, beef and chicken have twenty-four to twenty-eight grams of protein per one hundred grams of weight. Chlorella is a pain reliever, reduces hypertension, enhances the immune system in some cases, and chelates heavy metals.<br /><br /><h1>
Chlorella has been found to reduce pain</h1>
In 2000, a pilot study was conducted in which fibromyalgia patients consumed 10g of a commercially available chlorella tablet and 100mL of chlorella in liquid form. Symptoms were measured at the beginning of the trial, and again after one and two months of treatment with chlorella. After two months on chlorella, the fibromyalgia patients reported a significant 22% reduction in pain and tenderness. One-third of the patients believed their health was better after taking chlorella. Scientists involved with this study stated that a full double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial was warranted.<br /><br /><h1>
Chlorella reduces or stabilizes blood pressure, even when medication is stopped</h1>
In another clinical study, patients with hypertension were given 10g chlorella tablets and 100 mL chlorella extract for two months. Patients were taken off all blood pressure medications, then treated with chlorella. One-fourth of the patients saw a decrease in blood pressure after taking chlorella for two months. The other three-fourths did not see a rise in blood pressure, despite being taken off their blood pressure medication.<br /><br /><h1>
Chlorella enhances the immune system after flu shots in some adults</h1>
In a clinical trial performed in 2003, patients who had received flu shots were given chlorella to see if the algae improved immune system function. The subjects, all over the age of fifty, took either a placebo or chlorella for three weeks before being injected with a flu vaccine. At one week and three weeks after receiving the flu shots, patients between the ages of fifty and fifty-five who had been taking chlorella had two to four times more antibodies than the placebo group. Results were insignificant for older adults in the study.<br /><br /><h1>
Chlorella has potential as a heavy metal chelator</h1>
A study involving rats showed the potential chlorella has for counteracting heavy metal poisoning in humans. Male rats were given cadmium chloride, a toxic metal compound used in yellow dye and photocopying. Some rats were also fed chlorella powder, while other rats were used as the control group. Cadmium was found in the bloodstream, liver, kidneys, and small intestines of the rats. However, there was a remarkable increase in cadmium in the urine and feces of the chlorella-fed rats. In addition, tissue damage was less in the chlorella group. The research group concluded that chlorella can be considered an appropriate counteragent for heavy metal poisoning.<br /></div>
</div>Marinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09097158803593287909noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2849298732877851833.post-73697222689859672472012-05-11T23:09:00.000-07:002012-05-11T23:09:00.409-07:00chiropractic treatment prevents heart attacks and lowers blood pressure<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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The popularity of chiropractic care has grown dramatically since the middle of the 20th century. Although most people seek chiropractic treatment to relieve musculoskeletal pain, certain types of pain may be indicative of the patient experiencing a heart attack just before or during treatment.<br /><br />Chiropractors should expect to have at least one presentation of a myocardial infarction, or heart attack, during their careers, according to chiropractor Dr. Dwain M. Daniel. Research indicates that regular chiropractic adjustments may prevent heart attacks, lower blood pressure, reduce heart rate, relieve chest pain and support the cardiovascular system, according to the Palmer Chiropractic College.<br /><br />Studies at the College investigated the effects of chiropractic treatment on the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems in reference to an analysis of heart rate variability. Findings indicated that chiropractic adjustments do reduce pain and lower participant's mean heart rate.<br /><br />Additionally, anecdotal evidence indicates that adjustments of the atlas, or first cervical vertebra, may stop some heart attacks while they are occurring, according to chiropractor, Dr. Christopher Clarke of the Vibrance Family Chiropractic Center in Nashville. If a patient experiences a heart attack during an adjustment, gentle manipulation of the atlas may be appropriate and may alter the outcome; however, other emergency measures must be performed in an attempt to save a patient's life, including transport to the nearest medical facility. There are few studies on this fascinating aspect of chiropractic and additional research is necessary.<br /><br /><h1>
Reducing blood pressure</h1>
Chiropractic treatment also has a significant effect on blood pressure and anxiety levels, according to a study reported in the <i>Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics</i>. The study examined systolic and diastolic blood pressure levels and patients' anxiety levels before and after an adjustment. In all cases, those subjects who received active treatment experienced a distinct drop in blood pressure and a decrease of their anxiety levels. Results of this study provide evidence that chiropractic treatment offers support to the cardiovascular system.<br /><br /><h1>
Recognizing signs and symptoms</h1>
Women are just as likely to have heart attacks as are men; however, women are less likely to seek medical treatment or attend rehabilitation during or after a heart attack, according to the <i>Journal of Canadian Chiropractic Association</i>. Because women are more than twice as likely to seek chiropractic care, according to Clarke, it's important to recognize the specific symptoms they may exhibit. Men tend to experience extreme pain and heaviness in the chest and left arm during a heart attack. Although women may also experience these effects, they may exhibit very different symptoms, making a heart attack more difficult to diagnose. Women often complain of neck and upper back pain, which is mild and annoying and often mistaken as a structural problem. They are more likely to be misdiagnosed because of the vagaries of their symptoms.<br /><br />Other symptoms reported by women during a heart attack can range from chest pain brought on during exercise or other strenuous activity that then feels better during rest. There may be crushing chest pain accompanied by other wandering pains to the rest of the body, vague wandering pains extending down one or both arms, and difficulty breathing with shortness of breath, fatigue or weakness. They may also be fearful, anxious and in denial.<br /><br />Chiropractic treatment can increase vitality, boost immunity, relieve a variety of musculoskeletal ailments and strengthen the heart and cardiovascular system for both men and women. Patients should always check credentials for any chiropractic doctor before undergoing treatment, especially if they have a history of heart disease or other related disorders. Look for an experienced doctor who performs a thorough exam before attempting any adjustments.<br /></div>
</div>Marinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09097158803593287909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2849298732877851833.post-81206527036119974932012-05-09T01:00:00.000-07:002012-05-09T01:00:02.662-07:00Fight high blood pressure with Yoga<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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When you think of yoga flexibility, relaxation and maybe meditation come to mind. The application of yoga as a system of healing rarely enters the Western mind. Despite today's widespread reliance on Western medicine (drugs), yoga has been used for thousands of years for concerns like high blood pressure (HBP), a condition the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC) calls "<i>The Silent Killer</i>".<br /><br />One in three Americans have high blood pressure, according to the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute. High blood pressure (hypertension) is frequently a precursor to heart disease, the number one killer of Americans. Specific yoga poses are known to be beneficial exercises for high blood pressure.<br /><br /><h1>
Lower the numbers</h1>
Someone in the United States dies approximately every 33 seconds from heart disease, according to UMMC. The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends exercise, stress management and weight management to prevent high blood pressure, thereby lowering the risk of heart disease. Yoga can help with all three recommendations.<br /><br />Yoga is known to lower blood pressure, especially the diastolic score, according to the American Yoga Association (AYA). Blood pressure is measured as two numbers, a systolic score written above a diastolic score. The systolic number is a measurement of blood pressure while the heart pumps blood. Diastolic refers to blood pressure between beats. The AYA states that the diastolic number is the most important. Additionally, people with high diastolic blood pressure frequently develop a high systolic blood pressure too, according to the Mayo Clinic.<br /><br />Yoga benefits high blood pressure through promoting relaxation of the mind and body. Practicing yoga helps decrease the negative impacts of stress, including tension, shallow breathing and elevated heart rate. It also improves physical strength and flexibility, plus may assist with weight loss, according to <i>Prevention</i> magazine.<br /><br /><h1>
Beneficial high blood pressure exercises</h1>
Certain yoga poses are therapeutic for high blood pressure, according to <i>Yoga Journal</i>. Well-known poses like downward facing dog and easy pose are beneficial, but so are lesser known exercises like the big toe pose and seated forward bend:<br /><br /><b>Big toe pose</b><br /><br />Stand with feet together. Inhale through the nose. Exhale through the nose and bend forward at the waist, keeping the back straight. Grab the big toes and gently pull down.<br /><br /><b>Seated forward bend</b><br /><br />Sit with legs straight and pressed together. Exhale through the nose and bend forward at the hips. Keep the back straight and reach for the toes.<br /><br />Additionally, MedIndia.net, a website managed by the Medindia Health Network, recommends camel pose and the knee squeeze as high blood pressure exercises:<br /><br /><b>Camel pose</b><br /><br />Kneel on the floor. Exhale and arch the back, reaching back for the ankles. Tilt the head and look at the ceiling. Hips remain in line with the knees.<br /><br /><b>Knee squeeze</b><br /><br />Lie face up on the floor with the legs straight. Exhale, bend one knee and hug it into the chest. Keep the other leg straight. Switch legs.<br /><br /><h1>
Potentially dangerous yoga exercises</h1>
People with high blood pressure need to be careful with inversion poses, according to <i>Yoga Journal</i>. Inverted poses are where the head is below the heart. This position increases pressure inside the blood vessels of the neck and head. However, starting with mild inversions and gradually increasing the degree of inversion overtime may strengthen the blood vessels and could be beneficial in the long run.<br /><br /><h1>
Additional recommendations</h1>
To prevent high blood pressure, the AHA advises limiting alcohol intake and refraining from smoking. Eating a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains, but low in salt, is also recommended.<br /></div>
</div>Marinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09097158803593287909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2849298732877851833.post-83538032182310718242012-05-07T01:00:00.000-07:002012-05-07T01:00:06.087-07:00Diabetics should monitor blood pressure as well as their blood sugar<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Amid worrying statistics showing that half of those with diabetes in the UK also have high blood pressure, the Blood Pressure Association is encouraging people with diabetes to monitor their blood pressure along with their blood sugar.<br />
The complications associated with high blood pressure such as heart disease, stroke and kidney disease are even more of a risk if a person has diabetes, so it is vital that diabetics are helped to maintain a healthy blood pressure. <br />
Diabetes charity, <em>Diabetes UK</em>, has warned that people with diabetes need to be aware of the hugely damaging effect that high blood pressure can have on their health and urged that reducing it should be a top priority.<br />
Paul Newman, Chief Executive of the Blood Pressure Association agrees. He says,<br />
“As the leading UK charity dedicated to blood pressure, the Blood Pressure Association exists to support all sufferers of high blood pressure and help them to lower and maintain a healthy blood pressure. <br />
“We are always trying to raise awareness about the dangers of unchecked and untreated high blood pressure and encourage all adults to know their blood pressure numbers as they do their height and weight. Anyone who doesn’t know their blood pressure can easily get a quick and accurate test from their GP surgery or one of many high street pharmacies offering them.<br />
“Diabetics are at increased risk of the effects of high blood pressure and need to be aware of their blood pressure numbers in case it is raised.” <br />
He continues,<br />
“Knowledge really is power where health is concerned. Taking control and managing chronic conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure puts the patient in charge rather then being dominated by their condition. <br />
“Home blood pressure monitoring is increasingly being used by patients to keep an eye on their blood pressure in between GP appointments and the BPA can advise on which home monitors have been clinically validated.”<br />
Anyone diagnosed with diabetes that isn’t aware of their blood pressure numbers should ask for a test if they are not offered one. If high blood pressure is diagnosed, help and support to lower and manage it is available from the BPA.</div>Marinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09097158803593287909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2849298732877851833.post-72406979096281095262012-05-04T22:55:00.002-07:002012-05-04T22:55:44.203-07:00British adults eat over 155 billion grams of salt a year!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
UK Charity the Blood Pressure Association today released figures which show that UK adults eat over 425 million grams of salt a day adding up to more than 155 billion grams a year.<br />
That’s the weight of 36,000 African elephants.<br />
Fig.1 shows number of grams of salt eaten each year and each day in UK and home nations<br />
<br />
<table border="0"><tbody>
<tr><td></td><td>Number of adults (aged 16+) </td><td>Total grams of salt a year </td><td>Total grams of salt a day </td></tr>
<tr><td>United Kingdom </td><td>49,465,700 </td><td>155,272,832,300 </td><td>425,405,020 </td></tr>
<tr><td>England </td><td>41,436,400 </td><td>130,068,859,600 </td><td>356,353,040 </td></tr>
<tr><td>Wales </td><td>2,423,400 </td><td>7,607,052,600 </td><td>20,841,240 </td></tr>
<tr><td>Scotland </td><td>4,227,100 </td><td>13,268,866,900 </td><td>36,353,060 </td></tr>
<tr><td>Northern Ireland </td><td>1,379,000 </td><td>4,328,681,000 </td><td>11,859,400 </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
To help lower this huge figure, UK Charity the Blood Pressure Association has today launched a new campaign urging:<br />
• the government to continue its support for lowering salt intake in the UK by setting new salt reduction targets beyond 2012<br />
• supermarkets and food retailers to stock more low salt products to help the 8 million people in the UK currently being treated for high blood pressure and for them to create a ‘no salt’/ ‘salt trace’ category within their ‘free from’ range<br />
• supermarkets to introduce traffic light labeling for online shopping.<br />
By each reducing our salt intake from the current 8.6 grams per day (Ref 2) to 6 grams an estimated 18,000- 21,000 lives a year could be saved (Ref 3); lives currently lost to the effects of high blood pressure such as stroke, heart attack and heart disease.<br />
Professor Graham MacGregor, Chairman of the Blood Pressure Association said “This new analysis shows the huge and unnecessary amount of salt we are all eating- 425 million grams of salt a day! This puts up our blood pressure causing strokes, heart attacks and heart failure as well as increasing the risk of kidney disease, stomach cancer and osteoporosis.<br />
“The Government and in particular the Department of Health needs to be much more proactive and set new salt targets for the industry to achieve so that the recommend level of 6 grams or less per day for all adults is achieved by 2015.<br />
The Department of Health also needs to do much more to ensure that patients with high blood pressure- 16 million in the UK, with 8 million on treatment have a much greater choice of foods with far less salt so that they can reduce their salt intake now, to well below the 6 grams a day target for the general population.<br />
“At the same time it is essential that sign post labeling is made compulsory so that the 16 million patients with high blood pressure can easily choose foods with less salt and thereby help to control their own blood pressure.”<br />
We currently each consume around 8.6g of salt every day which adds up to over a massive 3Kg every year, mostly without even realising it.<br />
75% of the salt we eat is already hidden in the foods we buy. Foods like bread, cakes, ready meals and processed meats such as ham are high in salt.<br />
Mark Hooley, Head of Communications of the Blood Pressure Association said “By launching this campaign we hope to help make every day food choices easier for the 8 million adults in the UK being treated for high blood pressure.<br />
“Everyone has a friend or family member with high blood pressure, so it’s important we get the nation behind the campaign to ensure these changes happen.<br />
“By adding a ‘salt trace’/ ‘no salt’ category to their ‘free from’ range, supermarkets will be making it easier for their 8 million customers currently being treated for high blood pressure to find and buy products that will help them to lower their blood pressure.”<br />
The National Institute for Health & Clinical Excellence (NICE) recommends that adults should reduce their sale intake to a maximum amount of 6g each day.<br />
The Department of Health was planning to continue implementing reduced salt targets for food manufacturers beyond 2012, but concerns are now being raised that this is no longer the case despite NICE calling for a maximum daily salt intake of 6 grams for each adult by 2015 and 3g by 2025.<br />
<strong>Ends</strong><br />
Ref 1- Population figures from: Key Population and Vital Statistics, 2007, Office for National Statistics, Series VS No 34, PPI No 30<br />
Ref 2- Salt consumption (8.6 grams) from: “An assessment of dietary sodium levels among adults (aged 16-64) in the UK general population in 2008, based on analysis of dietary sodium in 24 hour urine samples”, National Centre for Social Research, June 2008<br />
Ref 3- How far should salt intake be reduced? Feng J. He and Graham A. Macgregor, Hypertension, November 2003<br />
Ref 4- Weight of African elephants: 2,268 to 6,350 kg= average 4309kg-</div>Marinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09097158803593287909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2849298732877851833.post-51394998438289319392012-04-14T19:58:00.001-07:002012-04-14T19:58:00.594-07:00Blood pressure drugs are good for you even you don't need them?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">A new analysis suggests that blood pressure drugs may benefit heart disease patients even if they don’t have high blood pressure. <br />
<div class="articleInline runaroundLeft"><!--forceinline--><div class="columnGroup doubleRule">The paper, published in the March 2 issue of The Journal of the American Medical Association, is an analysis of 25 published studies, and the authors cautioned that randomized controlled trials must be done to confirm the results. (They reported no financial ties to drug makers.) </div></div><div _prototypeuid="14" class="articleBody">Patients in the studies were followed for two years on average, and many had blood pressure levels that were normal or slightly above. Compared with similar patients who took dummy pills, those who took so-called antihypertensive medication cut their risk of stroke by 23 percent; heart attack by 20 percent; congestive heart failure by 29 percent; and death by 13 percent. <br />
The study’s lead author, Angela M. Thompson, said that while current guidelines call for treatment when blood pressure is 140/90 or higher, “we know from other studies that there’s a graded relationship between cardiovascular disease risk and blood pressure” — starting when the first number, the systolic reading, is as low as 115. <br />
But Ms. Thompson, a doctoral student in epidemiology at Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, noted that these cutoff points had changed over time. “So the question is: Is this still the best cutoff point? Or if you lower it a little bit, are people going to obtain more benefit?”</div></div>Marinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09097158803593287909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2849298732877851833.post-71317275445176460672012-04-12T19:55:00.002-07:002012-04-12T19:55:00.460-07:00Risks: Higher Fructose Intake Is Linked to Visceral Fat<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div itemprop="articleBody">The health effects of fructose consumption, largely from high-fructose corn syrup, have been the subject of considerable controversy among scientists and consumers alike. Now a study in the February issue of The Journal of Nutrition reports that fructose consumption may increase cardiovascular risk factors because it increases visceral fat, the kind that accumulates around internal organs. </div><div class="articleInline runaroundLeft"><div class="columnGroup doubleRule">Researchers examined 559 14- to 18-year-olds in Georgia, recording body mass index, exercise habits and fat mass. They also asked what the students had consumed in the past 24 hours and measured their body fat. </div></div><div _prototypeuid="23" class="articleBody"><div itemprop="articleBody">After controlling for other factors, the researchers found that higher fructose consumption was associated with increased systolic blood pressure, C-reactive protein (a sign of systemic inflammation) and visceral fat, and reduced HDL (good) cholesterol — all known risks for cardiovascular disease and Type 2 diabetes. </div><div itemprop="articleBody">But when they controlled for visceral fat, the effect of fructose alone was weakened. It was apparently not fructose itself, but its tendency to increase visceral fat that led to a rise in risk factors. </div><div itemprop="articleBody">“To just say ‘fructose is bad’ is incorrect,” said Norman K. Pollock, the lead author and an assistant professor of pediatrics at Georgia Health Sciences University. “But when calorie intake from fructose is greater than 16 percent of total intake, we’re seeing these risk factors appear.” </div></div></div>Marinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09097158803593287909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2849298732877851833.post-6594162736615933672012-04-10T19:51:00.000-07:002012-04-10T19:51:00.059-07:00Feeling racist? Blood pressure pill Propranolol can open harts and minds<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">A commonly prescribed drug used to treat high blood pressure may have the unintended benefit of muting racist thoughts in those who take it.<br />
<div id="yui_3_3_0_21_1333767127250297">A new Oxford University research study found that Propranolol, which works to combat high blood pressure, anxiety, migraines, and a number of heart ailments, affects the same part of the central nervous system that regulates subconscious attitudes on race.</div><div id="yui_3_3_0_21_1333767127250294">"Implicit racial bias can occur even in people with a sincere belief in equality," said Sylvia Terbeck, lead author of the study, which was published in the journal Psychopharmacology. "Given the key role that such implicit attitudes appear to play in discrimination against other ethnic groups, and the widespread use of Propranolol for medical purposes, our findings are also of considerable ethical interest."</div>Of course, the study is sure to raise concerns both over its validity and whether we should rely on prescription medication to regulate behavior, even for positive outcomes.<br />
As Cardiff University School of Psychology's Dr. Chris Chambers told the Telegraph: "We don't know whether the drug influenced racial attitudes only or whether it altered implicit brain systems more generally. And we can't rule out the possibility that the effects were due to the drug incidentally reducing heart rate."<br />
Another point of concern is the very limited range of subjects used in the test: All 36 participants were white males.<br />
Nonetheless, the study yielded some discussion-worthy results. According to the Telegraph, test subjects who took 40mg of Propranolol scored "significantly lower" on the Harvard University Implicit Association Test, which measures "subtle and spontaneous biased behavior."<br />
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<div id="yui_3_3_0_21_1333767127250307">Science has had a long and complicated history with race and cultural issues. For example, a 2009 study trained Caucasian test subjects to better recognize the facial features of African-American men with similar characteristics. Early results from that research indicated that the individuals better equipped to differentiate between other individuals of different ethnicity displayed a greater level of racial tolerance. Conversely, the infamous "Little Albert Experiment," which tested conditioned emotional responses in a toddler found that certain negative emotional responses could be learned, and even programmed, over time. And there's the once-popular philosophy of Eugenics, which sought to improve the human race through natural selection. After gaining popularity with the Nazis during World War II, the term has been relegated to more of a political insult than a serious theoretical practice these days.</div></div>Marinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09097158803593287909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2849298732877851833.post-31086317783691775262012-04-08T19:47:00.002-07:002012-04-08T19:47:00.179-07:00Device 'could revolutionise blood pressure monitoring'<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="introduction" id="story_continues_1">A device which can be worn like a watch could revolutionise the way blood pressure is monitored in the next few years, scientists say.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ugi1Brj36TU/T3-rMqhRZNI/AAAAAAAAAEU/RYs7i17Qa1o/s1600/BP%2520monitor%2520166.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" nda="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ugi1Brj36TU/T3-rMqhRZNI/AAAAAAAAAEU/RYs7i17Qa1o/s1600/BP%2520monitor%2520166.jpg" /></a></div>Researchers at the University of Leicester and in Singapore have developed a device to measure pressure in the largest artery in the body.<br />
Evidence shows it gives a much more accurate reading than the arm cuff.<br />
The technology is funded by the Department of Health and backed by Health Secretary Andrew Lansley.<br />
It works by a sensor in the watch recording the pulse wave of the artery, which is then fed into a computer together with a traditional blood pressure reading from a cuff.<br />
Scientists are then able to read the pressure close to the heart, from the aorta. <br />
Professor Bryan Williams, from the University of Leicester's department of cardiovascular sciences at Glenfield Hospital, said: "The aorta is millimetres away from the heart and close to the brain and we have always known that pressure here is a bit lower than in the arm.<br />
<div id="story_continues_2">"Unless we measure the pressure in the aorta we are not getting an appreciation of the risks or benefits of treatment."</div>He said the device would "change the way blood pressure has been monitored for more than a century" and he expected the technology to be used in specialist centres soon, before being "used much more widely" within five years.<br />
"The beauty of all of this is that it is difficult to argue against the proposition that the pressure near to your heart and brain is likely to be more relevant to your risk of stroke and heart disease than the pressure in your arm," he said.<br />
But it was important to ensure the new device was as small as possible to encourage clinicians and patients to use it, he added.<br />
The research work was funded by the Department of Health's National Institute for Health Research (NIHR).<br />
The NIHR invested £3.4m, with a further £2.2m of funding coming from the Department of Health, to establish a Biomedical Research Unit at Glenfield Hospital in Leicester.<br />
The university collaborated with the Singapore-based medical device company HealthSTATS International. <br />
Dr Choon Meng Ting, chairman of HealthSTATS, said: "This study has resulted in a very significant translational impact worldwide as it will empower doctors and their patients to monitor their central aortic systolic pressure easily, even in their homes and modify the course of treatment for blood pressure-related ailments."<br />
Mr Lansley said the device was "a great example of how research breakthroughs and innovation can make a real difference to patients' lives".<br />
Judy O'Sullivan, senior cardiac nurse at the British Heart Foundation, said previous research had shown that measuring pressure close to the heart was a better indicator of the effectiveness of treatment for high blood pressure than the standard method.<br />
"However, further research is needed before we can be certain of its superiority in the doctor's surgery," she said.</div>Marinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09097158803593287909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2849298732877851833.post-40433415490511331312012-04-06T19:45:00.000-07:002012-04-06T19:45:25.587-07:00iPhone Blood Pressure Monitor is out<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div id="introP">Withings' Blood Pressure Monitor is a BP cuff that connects directly to your iPhone, iPad, or iPod Touch, to measure and track blood pressure stats via a free app.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UL3_soGXyFY/T3-qJrPl-VI/AAAAAAAAAEM/LU_jJamvtMQ/s1600/WITHINGS_BPM_SAMPLE_3_610x427.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="224" nda="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UL3_soGXyFY/T3-qJrPl-VI/AAAAAAAAAEM/LU_jJamvtMQ/s320/WITHINGS_BPM_SAMPLE_3_610x427.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>French company Withings has made a name for itself with its Wi-Fi body scale. Now it's announced the U.S. availability of its Blood Pressure Monitor, which it touts as the only "BP cuff in the world to connect directly into any iOS device." <br />
While the extra hardware will run you a somewhat steep $129.99, needless to say, there's a free app in the mix that shows BP measurements and keeps track of user stats. <br />
Withings is calling the Blood Pressure Monitor truly plug-and-play. Wrap the cuff around your arm, then plug the cable into your iPhone, iPod Touch, or iPad, and the Withings app automatically launches. <br />
You can access your stats from your iOS device or your personal Withings Web page. The company says results are saved denoting dates and time of day for each reading, to help when comparing morning, afternoon and evening readings. You can share results with your doctor via an integrated email link or sync with personal health record sites like Google Health and Microsoft HealthVault that your doctor can access. <br />
If you happen to have a Withings Body Scale, your weight and blood pressure are tracked on the same graph of the application. No word yet on whether you'll be able to tweet your daily blood pressure as you can tweet your weight with the body scale app, but we certainly hope it's an option. <br />
Here are the tech specs for the Withings Blood Pressure Monitor: <br />
<ul><li>Measurement: Oscillometric method</li>
<li>Measurement range: 0 to 285mmHg</li>
<li>Pulse: from 40 to 180 beats per minute</li>
<li>Cuff fits arm circumferences from 9 to 17 inches </li>
<li>Pump: automatic inflation with air pump, controlled pressure release</li>
<li>FDA: device has received FDA clearance</li>
<li>Works in direct conjunction with an iPhone/iPad/iPod touch (sorry, no Android yet)</li>
<li>Price: $129.99</li>
</ul></div>Marinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09097158803593287909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2849298732877851833.post-72284129435976919162012-04-01T20:08:00.003-07:002012-04-01T20:08:00.360-07:00Study: Short Delay in Treating Blood Pressure Safe for Diabetics<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">Waiting up to a year to treat high blood pressure in a person with diabetes is probably not harmful, but waiting many years to get blood pressure under control could result in serious complications, new research indicates.<br />
In the study, published online Jan. 9 in the <i>Journal of General Internal Medicine</i>, researchers from the University of Chicago suggested that the one-year delay could give patients time to make certain lifestyle changes that could help correct the problem, such as limiting their salt intake, exercising or losing weight. <br />
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The study also suggests that delays in lowering blood pressure among patients with diabetes are not uncommon. Some patients may not have access to health care, while others may not follow through on their treatment, they explained.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-d7GkcSWVmGY/T26L_178baI/AAAAAAAAAEE/RFMez8ufai0/s1600/bloodpressure.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img aea="true" border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-d7GkcSWVmGY/T26L_178baI/AAAAAAAAAEE/RFMez8ufai0/s1600/bloodpressure.jpg" /></a></div>Still, other experts were cautious, noting that prompt control of blood pressure with medications can prevent serious cardiovascular trouble.<br />
In the study, a team led by Dr. Neda Laiteerapong used a simulated model with a theoretical population of adults in their 50s newly diagnosed with type 2 diabetes.<br />
The researchers found that a lifetime of uncontrolled blood pressure increased complications significantly, or by 1,855 events per 10,000 patients. It also reduced their life expectancy by almost one year.<br />
In contrast, a one-year delay in controlling blood pressure resulted in only a minor increase in the number of complications and reduced life expectancy by only two days.<br />
However, waiting very long before treatment wasn’t advised. The study authors found that 10 years or more of delays in the treatment of high blood pressure could lead to serious health problems, including greater risk for stroke and heart attack.<br />
“Among middle-aged adults with diabetes, the harms of a one-year delay in managing blood pressure may be small. Health care providers may wish to focus on diabetes management alone in the first year after diagnosis, to help patients establish effective self-management and lifestyle modification,” Laiteerapong and colleagues wrote in a journal news release.<br />
Experts said the findings add to the debate on when to initiate therapy, but questioned the authors’ conclusions.<br />
The study “contributes to the ongoing discussion about blood pressure targets and the importance of blood pressure control in people who have diabetes,” said Dr. Ronald Tamler, clinical director of the Mount Sinai Diabetes Center in New York City.<br />
“However, we should not forget that this latest study is merely a computer simulation. Studies have shown that uncontrolled blood pressure in <i>real</i> patients with diabetes is still a source of concern and may lead to complications, such as heart disease, stroke and kidney disease,” added Tamler, who is also assistant professor of medicine at the center.<br />
One cardiologist added that quick action in getting blood pressure under control can be life-saving, and he questioned whether waiting for lifestyle changes to occur was advisable.<br />
Dr. Henry Black, clinical professor of cardiology at NYU Langone Medical Center in New York City, said that many studies have shown “that <i>prompt</i> control of blood pressure reduces events, although neither of these studies were <i>specifically</i> aimed at patients with diabetes, although many of the study volunteers had diabetes mellitus.”<br />
According to Black, most trials have found changes in lifestyle to be less effective than drug therapy in reining in high blood pressure. That means that, “dithering with ‘lifestyle changes’ . . . will delay getting effective treatment to these high-risk individuals,” he said. “The time wasted focusing on control of diabetes with lifestyle changes is a bad bargain, if blood pressure is pushed to the back burner.”</div>Marinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09097158803593287909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2849298732877851833.post-41966865811025337622012-03-29T20:05:00.003-07:002012-03-29T20:05:00.126-07:00Drinking tea helps lower blood pressure<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">Drinking three cups of black tea daily over months might help lower blood pressure, a study suggests. <br />
In a research paper released last week in the Archives of Internal Medicine, black tea was tested against a placebo to see whether drinking the beverage over time had any effect on lowering blood pressure in male and female test subjects, ages 35 to 75.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LkHgaO0T4D0/T26Lcm8zniI/AAAAAAAAAD8/QdNUcHjxiRM/s1600/cupoftea.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img aea="true" border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LkHgaO0T4D0/T26Lcm8zniI/AAAAAAAAAD8/QdNUcHjxiRM/s1600/cupoftea.jpg" /></a></div><br />
The 95 study participants had systolic blood pressure readings ranging from 115 to 150 and were randomly assigned to one of two groups. One group drank three cups a day of regular leaf tea that contained 1,493 milligrams of powdered black tea solids with 429 milligrams of polyphenols and 96 milligrams of caffeine. <br />
The other group drank a placebo that had the same flavor and caffeine content but had no tea solids.<br />
Polyphenols are antioxidants found in foods such as cherries, broccoli, cranberries, red wine and tea. <br />
Antioxidants may prevent cell damage and could help avert certain types of cancer as well as reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.<br />
Those in the black tea solids group saw a drop of systolic and diastolic blood pressure over six months of between two and three points compared with the placebo group. <br />
The study authors said that when spread over the population this could mean a 10 percent drop in the prevalence of high blood pressure and a 7 percent to 10 percent decrease in the risk of cardiovascular disease. </div>Marinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09097158803593287909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2849298732877851833.post-77958104737963041542012-03-26T20:02:00.003-07:002012-03-26T20:02:00.429-07:00Detoxification lowers blood pressure<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">High blood pressure (hypertension) is one of the leading causes of cardiovascular disease and cardiovascular incidents in Canada. High blood pressure usually takes many years or decades to develop and has many serious long-term consequences. Fortunately, blood pressure can be normalized with lifestyle modifications and natural therapies. Unfortunately, far too many people are placed on blood pressure medication before all the other routes are explored. While it is extremely important to take a comprehensive examination of the causes of a person’s hypertension this article focuses on the use of detoxification as one component of a more comprehensive approach for hypertension.<br />
<strong>The Basics of Blood Pressure</strong><br />
Blood pressure is determined by 4 things:<br />
<ol><li>How much fluid is in the cardiovascular system – the more fluid in the system the higher the pressure. The basis of diuretic medication and many botanicals is to reduce fluid volume and thus decrease blood pressure.</li>
<li>The size and elasticity of the blood vessels – the more rigid and tight the blood vessels are the higher the blood pressure. Medications like ACE inhibitors and supplements like magnesium increase the size and elasticity of blood vessels to decrease blood pressure.</li>
<li>How hard the heart is pumping – the harder the heart pumps the higher the pressure. Medications like calcium-channel blockers decrease the force of the heart and thus reduce pressure. This often leads to a host of other side effects and other health issues.</li>
<li>Resistance in the cardiovascular system – the more resistance there is in the vascular system the higher the pressure needs to be to deliver nutrients to the tissues and cells. Detoxification is one of the most important ways to decrease resistance in the cardiovascular system.</li>
</ol><strong>Detoxification Decreases Resistance</strong><br />
Detoxification helps to decrease and normalize blood pressure by reducing the resistance in the vascular system. There are two major ways detoxification reduces resistance. First of all, detoxification removes toxins from the bloodstream that were making the blood more viscous (thicker) than it needed to be. As the blood becomes less viscous it can be pumped around more efficiently with less force and pressure. To illustrate, picture two glasses filled with pure distilled water. Imagine that you put some gelatin or fiber in one of the glasses and let it settle. Now imagine that you put a straw in both glasses and tried to drink from them. Which would be easier and which would require more force? The thicker the fluid the more force required to move it through a tube (blood vessel).<br />
Secondly, detoxification improves the function of the liver and kidneys and allows blood to move with less force. Picture the liver and kidneys as two filters in a system. The more clogged the filters are the slower fluid moves through them and the higher the back pressure. As the toxins are removed and the filters clear up the fluid begins to move faster, requiring less force, and producing less back pressure. Therefore, as the liver and kidneys respond to the detoxification support the blood pressure decreases.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sOMDD3wa4Xg/T26KkqHn5JI/AAAAAAAAAD0/i994PaGun-8/s1600/detox.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img aea="true" border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sOMDD3wa4Xg/T26KkqHn5JI/AAAAAAAAAD0/i994PaGun-8/s1600/detox.jpg" /></a></div></div>Marinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09097158803593287909noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2849298732877851833.post-78206727169553834692012-03-24T19:56:00.002-07:002012-03-24T19:56:50.531-07:00Swapping protein for sugar may help blood pressure<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">Overweight adults who replaced some of the sugar in their diets with protein saw their high blood pressure drop slightly in a new study that leaves open the question of whether the cut carbs or the added protein produced the effect.<span id="midArticle_1"></span><br />
Dutch researchers found that when they gave participants either a protein supplement or a supplement with the sweet carbohydrate maltodextrin, people on the protein drink lost an average of 5 points from their systolic blood pressure (the top number in a blood pressure reading), compared with people on the carb-heavy supplement.<br />
<span id="midArticle_2"></span>It's too soon to make any diet recommendations based on the results, said lead researcher Karianna Teunissen-Beekman, of Maastricht University in the Netherlands.<br />
<span id="midArticle_3"></span>For one, she noted in an email, it's not clear whether protein, itself, lowers blood pressure. The benefit in this study could have been due to protein users' lower carb intake.<br />
<span id="midArticle_4"></span>"We first want to get more insight into the biological mechanisms by which proteins lower blood pressure, or carbohydrates increase blood pressure, and the role of different protein and carbohydrate sources," Teunissen-Beekman said.<br />
<span id="midArticle_5"></span>The study, which appears in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, included 99 overweight adults with moderately elevated blood pressure. No one had more than "grade 1" high blood pressure (a systolic pressure of 130 to 159 mm Hg, or a diastolic pressure of 85 to 99 mm Hg).<br />
<span id="midArticle_6"></span>For the first two weeks of the study, all participants had a sugary drink with each meal every day.<br />
<span id="midArticle_7"></span>Then for the next four weeks, the men and women replaced their sugary drinks with a supplement they added to water. Individuals were randomly assigned to use either the protein supplement -- a mix of vegetable and dairy proteins -- or the carb-rich one.<br />
<span id="midArticle_8"></span>After four weeks, the protein group had shaved about 6 points from their systolic blood pressure, versus their own first two weeks on the sugary drink. In contrast, systolic pressure stayed almost unchanged in the carb-supplement group.<br />
<span id="midArticle_9"></span>That was based on readings taken in the clinic. The researchers also used portable monitors to track people's blood pressure throughout the day.<br />
<span id="midArticle_10"></span>Those results offered a somewhat different picture. People who used the protein supplement tended to have lower systolic pressure at certain points of the day compared to their initial two weeks on the sweetened drink.<br />
<span id="midArticle_11"></span>But in the carb-supplement group, systolic pressure tended to be higher at various points throughout the day than it had been during the study's first two weeks.<br />
<span id="midArticle_12"></span>"From these findings it is not clear whether it is the increased protein or the reduced carbohydrate intake that is responsible for the difference between the two groups," Teunissen-Beekman said.<br />
<span id="midArticle_13"></span>She said that research into exactly how protein and carbs affect blood pressure regulation should help clear up that question.<br />
<span id="midArticle_14"></span>Regardless, she noted, managing high blood pressure will never be a matter of changing one item in a person's diet. Overall lifestyle -- including shedding pounds if they are overweight -- is key, and many people need to take medication.<br />
<span id="midArticle_15"></span>"Managing blood pressure in overweight individuals in real life has more angles than just prescribing supplements," Teunissen-Beekman said.<br />
<span id="midArticle_0"></span>But, she added, studies have already shown that replacing some carbs with protein can help people with weight control. If future studies show there are blood pressure benefits too, she said, that would give extra support to the diet tactic.</div>Marinahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09097158803593287909noreply@blogger.com0