What are the chances of you developing heart disease in the future? Have you ever pondered on that question? If you haven’t, it’s understandable… most people don’t want to think about the likelihood of them having a life-threatening condition. However, every once in a while, it’s important for the question to cross your mind. Even for those who are young and feel that they are living their healthiest life need to think about this question. Cardiac arrest does not discriminate, and contrary to what many believe, age does not play a factor in the development of heart disease or heart attacks. Heart conditions can begin to develop at any age, and no one is ever too young to change bad habits and start living a life with a healthy heart. There are many risks that can increase the likelihood of heart disease such as obesity, age, smoking and family history, however one of the hidden underlying risks that many are unaware of is inflammation.
The American Heart Association has linked inflammation as the common denominator between patients who suffer from strokes and heart disease and have stated that inflamed areas can be a sign of an “atherogenic response”¹. Inflammation within the body is normally caused by a buildup of bad bacteria and toxins that seep into our system. Inflammation in the body can be caused by various factors, and all of this eventually can have a domino effect leading to heart disease. Understanding the causes of inflammation can ultimately lower the risks of oncoming heart conditions, therefore knowing what these factors are can make a huge difference.
Bad Bacterial Buildup
When people think of inflammation, they instantly think of a physical injury, however sometimes it is not that obvious. As stated previously, inflammation is caused as a result of a malevolent bacteria buildup. This means that if enough bacteria from chemicals, metals, pesticides or other environmental toxins seep into the system, this can lead to a bacterial buildup anywhere. From there, bacteria can penetrate the bloodstream and easily access the heart, which then causes inflammation. Once an area is infected, our bodies react by using cholesterol to create a coating over the injured area, and soon this can result in a narrowed artery. In certain cases when the inflammation is left untreated, the arteries will eventually become blocked, thus increasing the risks of heart disease or heart attacks. It is highly encouraged that any inflamed areas, including joint, muscle or bones, should be treated immediately, otherwise they will lead to similar outcomes. Other common inflammatory areas that may seem concealed include dental issues (such as root canals or gum disease), intestinal infections and bad bacteria buildup within the gut. These issues can also cause the blood itself to become inflamed, and when this happens, the possibility of blood clots becomes much higher.
Mineral Deficiencies
For patients who suffer with heart disease or have a genetic component that can increase someone’s risk for heart disease, LifeWorks will always recommend magnesium as a mineral supplement to fight inflammation and decrease heart disease risks. According to OpenHeart Journals; a publisher that focuses on cardiovascular medicine, this mineral is responsible for helping to regulate blood pressure, glycemic levels and lipid peroxidation². It can also produce bone cells to strengthen joints and ligaments and protect them from injury, thus preventing inflammation. Sadly, many Americans tend to develop magnesium deficiency over periods of time, and when people lack this mineral, they tend to have arteries that spasm and become narrow or have thicker blood than normal, making them more susceptible to swelling. Patients with high inflammation in their bodies were also found to have an imbalance of essential fatty acids. A diet of at least two servings of omega 3 fish oils (which are often found in salmon, trout, or tuna) per week, can immensely help an individual decrease their risk of heart disease. This is because Omega 3 Fatty Acids reduce inflammation while also decreasing triglycerides, reducing blood clotting, and lowering blood pressure.
High C Reactive Proteins (CRP) In The Blood
C-Reactive Proteins (CRP) are proteins produced from the liver in response to inflamed areas within the body. Tests for CRP levels are usually conducted to detect inflammation or to help monitor chronic illnesses. High sensitivity C-Reactive Protein Test (HS-CRP) is a “more sensitive standard test that evaluates one’s risk of developing heart disease”³ or having a stroke. Unfortunately, not everyone receives the latter, and it is up to the patient to request their HS-CRP levels from their practitioner if they wish to not only detect inflammation, but to examine their potential for heart related issues. Some patients are extremely unaware if they have high CRP levels and eventually end up developing heart disease or having a heart attack. CRPs are meant to detect inflammation early on to prevent these events from occurring. Most of the time when an asymptomatic individual receives a high CRP test result, the most common infected area is within the gut or the teeth.
In Conclusion
If you feel that you are at risk of developing heart disease or if you currently have it, LifeWorks Wellness Center offers alternative treatments to help improve heart health and prevent heart disease. Chelation, Enhanced External Counterpulsation Therapy, Plaquex IV Therapy and Ozone Therapies have all successfully helped patients improve their quality of life and relieve their chronic heart conditions.
If you are currently experiencing any of these, please call to schedule an appointment with us at 727-466-6789.
Helpful Heart Health Resources
- Heart Health - our complete page on heart health / cardiovascular treatment.
