Being Heart Smart is important.

You should be aware of the different types of heart disease and the risk indicators.

While cholesterol levels are important, we now know that these levels are not completely influenced by the foods we eat.  Greater influences are family history and obesity. 

Other areas to examine are:

• High Blood Pressure ("Hypertension") - One third of all adults have high blood pressure.  Normal blood pressure is 120/80 mm Hg.  High Blood Pressure puts a tremendous strain on the heart.  Even a slight decrease in blood pressure can reduce cardiovascular risks by 10 percent.
• Inflammation - Chronic or low-level inflammation can lead to atherosclerosis, or the build up to plaque in the inner lining of the arteries.
• Homocysteine is an amino acid found in your blood - A high level or too much homocysteine may increase your risk to heart disease.
• Insulin resistance - A pre-diabetic condition with the increase of glucose or sugar level in the blood.
• These factors may show no symptoms or warning signs, which is why it's so important to have regular health screenings.  The good news is that much of this can be controlled through diet and exercise - and by limiting your intake of alcohol, sugar and unhealthy fats.

Remember the Ultimate Reward
A Longer Healthier Life!