, , ,

Causes and Prevention of Heart Disease

, , ,

What causes heart disease? Heart disease affects the blood vessels and cardiovascular system. Several different problems can result from this, many of which are related to a process called atherosclerosis, a condition that develops when plaque builds up in the walls of the arteries. This buildup narrows the arteries, making it harder for blood to flow through. If a blood clot forms, it can stop the blood flow, causing a heart attack or stroke.

Unfortunately, heart disease can take many other forms as well, including:

  • Heart failure or congestive heart failure, which means that the heart is still working, but it isn’t pumping blood as well as it should, or getting enough oxygen.

  • Arrhythmia or an abnormal rhythm of the heart, which means the heart is either beating too fast, too slow or irregularly. This can affect how well the heart is functioning and whether or not the heart is able to pump enough blood to meet the body’s needs.

  • Heart valve problems can lead to the heart not opening enough to allow proper blood flow. Sometimes the heart valves don’t close and blood leaks through, or the valve leaflets bulge or prolapse into the upper chamber, causing blood to flow backward through them.

How can you prevent heart disease?

Some heart disease risks can be controlled, some cannot, but with the right education and care, heart disease in women can be treated and prevented.

Studies show that healthy choices have resulted in 330 fewer women dying from heart disease per day. Here are some lifestyle changes that contribute to this number:

  • Don’t smoke

  • Manage blood sugar

  • Lower and maintain a healthy blood pressure

  • Lower and maintain a healthy cholesterol

  • Stay active and exercise regularly

  • Lose weight and maintain a healthy weight

  • Eat a healthy and balanced diet

To learn more, visit: https://www.goredforwomen.org/about-heart-disease/facts_about_heart_disease_in_women-sub-category/causes-prevention/

*Results may vary. Minimum purchase required. Some restrictions apply and discounts may not be used for online purchases.
When you enroll in a Medical Weight Loss Clinic program, the length of your program will be determined by you and the staff based on the amount of weight you want to lose and how quickly you want to lose it. Your actual weight loss will be determined by many factors, including, but not limited to: your medical circumstances, the plan you choose, adherence to the meal plan and use of nutritional supplements. Your goal and program duration information will be given to you in writing at the time of enrollment. As your program progresses, the rate you lose weight may change and you will have the opportunity to discuss this at every daily visit with your weight loss consultant, where changes to your meal plan and/or program can be made.