July 6, 2008

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Cholesterol Disorders Center   [ Home >  Cholesterol Disorders >  More  Related Items ]   CHOLESTEROL DISORDERS - ARTICLES New angle on cholesterol profiles June 20, 2008 High density lipoprotein, on its own, may not be a risk factor in heart disease. People with a genetic makeup that affects HDL do not have an increased likelihood of heart problems, according to a new study. Keep Taking Your Statin to Stop a Heart Attack! October 25, 2007 Five years' intake of a statin drug reduces the likelihood of a first heart attack or cardiac death. Longer follow-up shows that these benefits persist for a further 10 years. The Overlooked Triglycerides August 28, 2007 Many health-conscious people take care to keep their cholesterol levels under control, but neglect their triglycerides. Raised nonfasting triglyceride levels are better predictors of subsequent heart attack, coronary heart disease, and death than fasting triglyceride levels, especially in women. HDL-Cholesterol's Role in Coronary Artery Disease March 5, 2007 Lowering low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and raising high-density cholesterol (HDL-C) at the same time, through statin medication, is associated with a reduction in the degree of degenerative artery changes (atherosclerosis). Magnesium and the Metabolic Syndrome June 19, 2006 Low consumption of magnesium in the diet in your 20s and 30s is apparently associated with an increased likelihood of developing the metabolic syndrome, which itself predisposes one to cardiovascular disease and diabetes in later life Stress at Work and the Metabolic Syndrome February 13, 2006 The demands of a job and how it is organized can lead to stress at work. A new study shows that this can cause development of the metabolic syndrome, which in turn can be followed by cardiovascular disease. How to Avoid a Heart Attack, Wherever You Live September 26, 2005 A global study - 267 centers, in 52 countries, across 7 continents - shows that the risk factors for a first heart attack are pretty universal. Nine of them account for over 90% of the risk worldwide, and they are all potentially modifiable. Double the Effectiveness of Your Statin? August 17, 2005 Is taking a psyllium supplement - Metamucil ® - as effective as doubling the dose of a statin? It certainly looks like it, according to a new study. Lower Cholesterol, Lower Mortality . . . June 30, 2005 When treating high blood lipid levels, statins and n-3 fatty acids (omega-3 fatty acids) are more effective than other agents in reducing mortality. . . A Statin-like Diet? April 15, 2005 A tough cholesterol-lowering diet (lots of fiber, plant sterols, soy, and nuts) is shown to be just as good as a statin in lowering LDL-cholesterol over a 4-week period . . . A Drink or Two Is Probably OK March 24, 2005 There's further evidence that low to moderate alcohol intake is linked to health benefits - in this case, a reduced occurrence of the metabolic syndrome, which can lead to a heart attack or type 2 diabetes. Once Again, Do You Know Your CRP? February 11, 2005 Two new studies show that a high CRP level is just as important as a high LDL cholesterol level in assessing the risk of heart attack. And someone with a low LDL cholesterol level may, in fact, have a high CRP level . . . Not Too Much, But Not Too Little Cholesterol? December 10, 2004 Of course you want your cholesterol level to be as low as possible. But should you worry that it may be too low? Several studies have shown that a very low cholesterol is not necessarily a good thing, and here's a new one . . . Even Newer Cholesterol Guidelines September 3, 2004 Since 2001, when the National Cholesterol Education Program issued guidelines, results from 5 large studies of statins have led to even lower goals for LDL-cholesterol levels . . . Should We Put Statins in the Drinking Water? May 19, 2004 If some is good, is more better? It seems so, when it comes to the statin drugs. Two studies have shown greater benefits of statin therapy when the cholesterol-lowering effect is increased. Cholesterol: Size Does Matter (1) December 4, 2003 Longevity is partly inherited. And the study summarized here shows that one of the genes involved may work by regulating the size of lipoprotein cholesterol particles. Larger cholesterol particles are linked to a reduced risk of high blood pressure and heart attacks . . . . Cholesterol: Size Does Matter (2) December 4, 2003 A pilot study of intravenous injections of a modified lipoprotein complex that resembles HDL has produced a rapid reduction in the atheroma that characterizes coronary atherosclerosis. This may be due to the larger HDL particles, which carry away cholesterol and other constituents of atheroma. . . Combine Healthy Habits to Tackle Syndrome X October 15, 2003 Syndrome X (the insulin-resistance or metabolic syndrome) is diagnosed from abnormal blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol, and/or body weight results. A study has been done to see if its ill-effects can be counteracted by exercise and diet . . . . Lower Cholesterol Is a Fringe Benefit of High Calcium Intake October 2, 2003 Many women (and men) keep their calcium intake fairly high to try and avoid osteoporosis. There's new evidence that this may have other benefits - a lower body weight, reduced body fat, and an improved cholesterol profile. Lowering Cholesterol with Diet: It's Not Just About Fat September 18, 2003 New research suggests that foods other than those high in saturated fat may influence cholesterol levels. Indeed, a vegetarian diet with additional components (plant sterols, soy, fiber, etc) can equal a statin in lowering LDL-cholesterol. Possible Heart Health Benefits from Green Tea September 18, 2003 Scientific evidence supporting green tea's health claims has been mixed, at best. Recently, researchers have reported that a green tea extract - in capsule form - has a beneficial effect on cholesterol levels. Note Down Your Numbers! September 18, 2003 This is a companion article to "Know Your Numbers". It's intended to be something you can print out and use to note down your blood pressure, blood glucose, and cholesterol levels. It also gives the desired, or target levels, for each of these tests. Two Serious Effects of the Metabolic Syndrome September 10, 2003 The metabolic syndrome - a collection of abnormal body measurements - is becoming more common. Having it raises the chances of developing not only heart disease, but also adult onset (type 2) diabetes, another condition that's seen more often today. Statins Work Even When the Cholesterol Isn't Raised May 22, 2003 Statins lower total and LDL cholesterol, and reduce fatal and non-fatal heart attacks and strokes. Now it's becoming clear that these benefits are independent of the initial lipid levels . . . . Do You Know Your CRP? September 5, 2002 C-reactive protein (CRP) levels are becoming as important as cholesterol levels in assessing the risk of coronary artery disease, which can lead to a heart attack. And CRP levels seem to be closely related to one's cardiorespiratory fitness . . . . Women's Risks of Coronary Heart Disease August 23, 2002 For years, it was supposed that women didn't have heart attacks. However, since learning that two women have an MI for every three in men, researchers have been looking at possible sex differences in the known risk factors for coronary heart disease. Being Overweight Increases Your Risk of Heart Failure August 23, 2002 It's well known that really obese people are likely to die prematurely from congestive heart failure, but how big is the risk for those of us who are "just a little bit overweight"? A new study has provided the answer. Nuts Linked to Heart Health in Men August 8, 2002 More evidence that nuts can be part of a heart healthy diet . . . Moderate Drinking May Cut Diabetes Risk in Older Women July 16, 2002 A new study suggests that moderate alcohol intake reduces known risk factors for diabetes in older women. Olive Oil is Part of a Heart-Healthy Diet July 16, 2002 What is it about olive oil that makes it such a key part of the healthful Mediterranean diet? A Produce-Rich Diet Helps Keep Blood Pressure in Check July 16, 2002 Pass the peas, please . . . a new study says that a produce-rich diet can help keep blood pressure in check. What's Your Blood Pressure and How Do Blood Pressure Medications Work? - Part XIII June 14, 2002 This article from Dr Ed tells you all you want to know about high blood pressure, in a readily understandable way. It's essential reading for all sufferers from hypertension . . . . . . . A High Level of Triglycerides? (Part II) June 14, 2002 This is the second part of Dr Anita's review of elevated serum triglycerides, what a raised level may mean, and how you can cope with it. Can Diabetes Be Prevented? June 14, 2002 With diabetes increasing at a rapid rate, ways to prevent it are becoming increasingly important. A large study has been reported that shows the effects of lifestyle changes and the drug metformin on the occurrence of diabetes in people at high risk. Here's a summary of the findings. A High Level of Triglycerides? (Part I) May 27, 2002 Among your blood test readings you have no doubt also seen an item called "triglycerides", and especially if they have been marked as elevated, you will have asked yourself what these substances actually are, what their role in your body is, but, most of all, what excess triglycerides may mean for your health. Cholesterol Linked to Memory Skills in Seniors May 16, 2002 Some scientists think that high blood cholesterol levels may contribute to the development of dementia in older adults. Food Shopping? Add Fish to Your List May 16, 2002 Several weekly servings of fish - a prime source of omega-3 fatty acids - seem to help protect US doctors and nurses (both men and women) from heart disease. Good Physical Fitness May Mean a Longer Life May 16, 2002 Here's more evidence that physically active men are healthier - and live longer - than sedentary men . . . . ARBs Do More Than Just Lower Blood Pressure May 7, 2002 The latest blood pressure lowering drugs - the ARBs - are relatives of the ACE inhibitors. Are there important differences between the two drug classes in their effectiveness and side effects? Statins May Help More Than Just the Heart April 30, 2002 Women who take "statin" drugs to lower their cholesterol may be getting an additional health benefit -- a lower risk of bone fractures. Is It Risky to Stop Statins? April 23, 2002 Stopping statins abruptly in people with acute coronary artery symptoms (e.g. chest pain at rest) doesn't always produce the best result . . . . . . Diet Still Important for People on Cholesterol-Lowering Drugs March 27, 2002 Cholesterol-lowering "statin" drugs work best in combination with a heart-healthy low-fat diet. Taking a Bite Out of Cholesterol February 25, 2002 As part of a low-fat diet, a cholesterol-lowering margarine can give you an edge in fighting high cholesterol. Syndrome X -- Again! February 15, 2002 The metabolic syndrome -- syndrome X -- is much more widespread than we previously thought, at least in the USA. The increased risks of diabetes and heart attacks that it carries makes it urgent for us to get the problem under control as quickly as possible . . . Weighing Your Longevity Part IV: Losing Weight Safely February 15, 2002 Are you an apple or a pear? Intensive weight loss programs may not always be necessary, or even desirable... High Triglycerides Tied to Stroke Risk February 8, 2002 A new study has identified a link between blood triglyceride levels and the risk of stroke. Will You Have a Heart Attack as You Age? You Can Identify and Reduce Your Risk! - Part XII February 1, 2002 The latest article in this series explains the way in which heart attacks come about, how the condition of your coronary arteries can be assessed, and what your risk factors for coronary heart disease are. There's also a simple method to calculate your risk of having a heart attack some time in the next ten years... Weighing Your Longevity Part III: Weight and Longevity January 24, 2002 The need to watch your waistline changes as you get older... Weighing Your Longevity Part II: Should You Restrict Your Calories? January 18, 2002 Mice and rats that have their dietary calories restricted live longer. Should you follow their lead? Omega-3s, the Heart-Healthy Fats January 11, 2002 After years of telling consumers to eat less fat, health professionals are now advising them to eat more of one particular kind -- omega-3 fats, which seem to play a role in the prevention of heart disease. Additional Blockade of Angiotensin in Chronic Heart Failure? December 13, 2001 Hospitalization remains frequent in patients with heart failure despite recent progress in medical treatment with ACE inhibitors and beta-blockers. A large international clinical trial studied whether additional inhibition of the angiotensin system could further benefit patients with that disease. Weighing Your Longevity: Introduction December 13, 2001 As you age, you may wish to reconsider your body shape... Are Low-Fat Diets the Best Way to Lose Weight? December 6, 2001 A small study suggests that eating a little more fat than is normally included in a low-fat diet may actually help some people lose weight. When it's Important to Act in Time - Heart Attack October 29, 2001 If you think you are having a heart attack, or a stroke, it's vital (this means life-saving!) to act in time. The US National, Heart, Lung and Blood Institute has launched a campaign to make sure everyone knows how to recognize the warning signs of a heart attack, and what to do... Treating Your Raised Cholesterol Level October 5, 2001 Many people think they have their cholesterol levels 'under control'. However, new guidelines from the US National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute recommend a much more aggressive target for lipid levels. The new target is based on calculations of the likelihood of coronary artery disease in relation to lipid levels. Find out your new target. Good News About 'Good' Diets September 26, 2001 A Harvard study provides more proof that a low-fat, produce-rich diet helps protect women from heart disease. The Inner Layer Of Your Aging Blood Vessels Is A Battlefield - Part XI August 31, 2001 In article 10 of this Series, "How Badly Are Your Arteries Hardening With Aging?" we discussed large artery structure and function, and we explained why vascular aging is a risk factor for high blood pressure. DASH to a Lower Cholesterol Level August 31, 2001 A diet that provides plenty of produce and low-fat dairy foods seems to help control both blood pressure and cholesterol. New, Simple Tests for Predicting Artery Disease August 24, 2001 Most people know that a high blood cholesterol can mean future trouble for your arteries. Recently, however, newer tests are being used to try to improve the accuracy of such predictions. Among them are blood tests for evidence of mild but persistent inflammation, which has recently been recognized as a likely cause of progression of arterial disease. Are the new tests better? Read this article and find out. How Badly Are Your Arteries Hardening With Aging? - Part X August 24, 2001 Health care consumers, and physicians too, have been accustomed to the idea that "hardening of the arteries" occurs as one gets older. Until recently, it has been erroneously believed that this arterial stiffening is an inevitable component of "normal" aging and beyond an individual's control. Try a Little TLC August 10, 2001 TLC used to mean a form of therapy provided by nurses - Tender Loving Care. Nowadays, it stands for Therapeutic Lifestyle Changes - the things people must do if they are to avoid the effects of the metabolic syndrome, which is becoming so common in the USA... Risk Factors for Alzheimer's August 10, 2001 Can you lower your risk of getting Alzheimer's? Obesity and Ageing: Alert or Alarm? July 2, 2001 Gaining weight as we age is natural; becoming clinically obese is not. Keeping your weight (or overweight) stable after the age of 50 is a key to healthy ageing. Statins to stop dementia? July 2, 2001 Blood lipids have been linked by some scientists to the development of dementia. A recent analysis has been reported that looked for possible benefits of 'statins' and other lipid-lowering agents on the occurrence of Alzheimers disease and other types of dementia . . . . . . Keep on Walking July 2, 2001 Physical activity is important for preventing diseases, including coronary heart disease. But, how much exercise? What kind? How vigorous? Fish Appears to Reduce Stroke Risk in Women February 19, 2001 What makes fish such a central part of a healthful diet? Part of the answer is omega-3 fatty acids, a type of fat that appears to reduce stroke risk in women. What Was Once Believed To Be Normal Aging Is Now Considered To Be Dangerous! - Part IX January 24, 2001 Your heart and blood vessels undergo changes with aging and these changes are risk factors for age-associated diseases. Previous articles (one through eight) in this series have explained how aging 'itself' affects your heart. How to Increase the Soluble Fiber in Your Diet January 22, 2001 Foods high in soluble fiber are an essential part of a "heart healthy" diet. How does your diet measure up? Physical Activity : Antidote To Aging January 22, 2001 People often associate aging with illness and slowing down, but remaining active may contribute to better health and independence as one ages. Choosing a 'Heart Healthy' Spread January 22, 2001 Which is better for you, butter or margarine? The "heart healthiest" diet limits both. Portion Control : It's In Your Hands January 22, 2001 Calorie control depends on portion control. Learn how to estimate how much of each kind of food is a healthy serving. How to Increase Your Intake of Fruits and Vegetables January 22, 2001 Fruits and vegetables are low in calories and high in fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. As an extra bonus, they also add flavor, variety, and texture to meals. How to Discover the Joy of Soy January 22, 2001 Soy foods like tofu and soy milk are low in cholesterol and saturated fat and high in protein, and make a smart addition to a "heart healthy" diet. Learn what soy can do for you. Messages Transmitted From The Brain Fine Tune The Heart - Part VIII November 22, 2000 In the previous article, we learned that a division of the central nervous system, the autonomic nervous system, sends signals to the heart to acutely modify its behavior by releasing messenger substances called neurotransmitters. Studies Back the Benefits of a 'Heart Healthy' Diet November 7, 2000 Two Harvard studies add more weight to the argument that, when it comes to heart disease, diet does make a difference. Garlic: Do its medicinal properties match its gastronomic attributes? November 7, 2000 Garlic has been used for centuries as a medicinal herb, but in recent times the bulb itself and its volatile compounds have been examined for their ability to prevent two of the most common causes of death, cardiovascular disease and cancer. But can a clove a day keep the undertaker away?. High Cholesterol Often Goes Undetected October 22, 2000 An article in a recent issue of the British Medical Journal warns physicians that those people at greatest risk for heart attack may have dangerously high blood levels of cholesterol. Brain-Heart Communication Withers With Aging - Part VII October 17, 2000 Reality is far more incredible than fiction! The communication between the human brain and the heart is a striking example. This article will show you how the brain communicates with the heart through the nervous system. Garlic Has a Modest Effect on High Cholesterol Levels October 2, 2000 Garlic has received a lot of attention in the last several years, much of it focused on its effect on serum cholesterol. Scores of scientists have explored this issue, but an article in the most recent issue of the Annals of Internal Medicine. Studies Point to the Health Benefits of Whole Grain Foods October 2, 2000 Two recently published Harvard studies highlight how a healthy lifestyle that includes a diet rich in whole grain foods can contribute to better health in women. Syndrome X - complicated, but important September 18, 2000 Some men with high blood pressure, although being treated with blood pressure lowering drugs, still have heart attacks at an unexpectedly high rate. It now seems that at least some of these men have what is known as 'syndrome X', also called the insulin-resistant syndrome. Folate Part of a Heart Healthy Diet September 7, 2000 When in doubt, go for the greens. An article in the August 29 issue of Circulation adds to the body of evidence that demonstrates that a folate-rich diet that includes foods like dark green. Fish Oil Supplements May Promote Heart Health September 7, 2000 Move over HDL and LDL. There is another fat to consider--triglycerides. In fact, triglycerides are hardly rare: they are the major storage form of fat in the body and account for most of the fat from food we eat. Diet and lifestyle changes can lower heart disease rates in women September 7, 2000 First the good news: improvements in diet and lifestyle may be responsible for a decrease in heart disease in American women. The bad news is that increasing rates of obesity are having a negative impact on health. The Essence of the Heartbeat Changes with Aging - Part VI September 6, 2000 You're watching an episode of ER. Suddenly one of the actors yells, 'CODE BLUE', meaning in this case that a patient's heart has stopped beating. Eating Fruits and Vegetables Year-Round is Key to Staying Healthy August 24, 2000 You know the importance of eating plenty of fruits and vegetables. During the summertime it's easy--a salad is perfect when it's too hot to cook, or along with that grilled burger you eat an ear of corn. Good Health Habits Help Women's Hearts August 24, 2000 Are all those veggie salads and laps around the track worth it? Yes, according to a report in The New England Journal of Medicine that says that careful attention to eating and exercise habits. Soy As Part of a 'Heart Healthy' Diet August 24, 2000 Have you picked up a package of tofu lately? If you haven't, you may be missing out on some important health information. Last fall, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Psyllium Powder Can Help to Lower Cholesterol Levels August 24, 2000 'A skinless chicken breast, add mustard hold the mayonnaise, salad not French fries, and low-fat dressing'. The good news is your dietary efforts have paid off and your cholesterol level has dropped. Doctors Say 'Apple' Is Not the Shape for Men...or for Women August 24, 2000 Weight gain that settles in the abdominal area--fat that some people call a 'spare tire'--is usually thought of as a problem common to middle-aged men. But an article in a recent issue. How Good a Pump is Your Older Heart? - Part III August 2, 2000 Oxygen is needed for the body's cells to survive and function. The heart is the slave to your body's oxygen needs because it must pump your blood, which is the source. The Older Heart Has Trouble Pumping Blood During Exertion - Part V July 31, 2000 In the preceding article 'Your Older Heart May Cause You to Feel Short of Breath', we compared the circulatory system to a 'great continuous canal'. You learned that the. Treating high cholesterol levels in the very old? July 12, 2000 Until recently, it was thought that there was no point in trying to lower raised cholesterol levels in people over 75. However, newer studies show this reluctance is wrong. Your Older Heart May Cause You To Feel Short of Breath - Part IV July 5, 2000 As you get older you might notice that you become short of breath doing activities that caused you no distress at a younger age. To understand why this is happening you need to understand a little bit. 'Why Does Aging Cause Your Exercise Ability to Deteriorate?' - Dr. Ed - Part II May 25, 2000 During exertion, which would be any type of exercise that requires the body to work hard, such as walking up a flight of stairs or running, your heart must increase its pumping ability . How to eat to lower your cholesterol May 25, 2000 Cholesterol is a fat-like substance which performs numerous important functions in the human body. It is a component of cell walls and is used by the body to make various. How to cope with fats May 25, 2000 Fats and oils supply the body with highly concentrated energy. One gram of fat supplies approximately 9 kcal of energy per gram. That is more than twice as much as the energy . How to start exercising May 25, 2000 Men and women of all ages are recommended to take at least half an hour's exercise every day in the form of everyday activities or sporting activities of 'moderate' intensity. This basic. How to eat if you have cardiovascular disease May 25, 2000 Numerous studies have shown that nutrition is one of the most important factors in the development of coronary artery disease (CAD) that are susceptible to influence. A healthy . How to really lose weight May 12, 2000 The success of any attempt to lose weight or to keep one's ideal weight once this has been achieved is actually far less dependent on slimming aids (dieting, medicines, slimming . How to choose low-fat food May 12, 2000 Funny as it may sound, fat reduction actually starts in the head! Anyone who for health reasons wants to reduce the amount of fat in his or her daily diet needs to know what low-fat . How to prepare low-fat meals May 12, 2000 Anyone who cooks - even simple dishes for the single person, such as fried egg and bacon - has the opportunity to cut down on fat. Some suggestions are provided below. Lessened thyroid activity and heart attacks April 27, 2000 The thyroid is a small gland in the neck that releases hormones that control how fast the cells in the body perform their functions. It has long been known that if this gland is obviously under-active, there is often an accompanying raised blood cholesterol level and high blood . Dr. Ed's Introduction April 7, 2000 You're losing your heart again! But this time it's not so much fun! You're losing that incredible organ, your heart to aging, not romance. The 'aging process' is known to causes specific cardiovascular. 'Are You in Shape for Your Age?' - Dr. Ed - Part I April 7, 2000 Most of us don't need to be told that our ability to perform aerobic activities, such as running, swimming, or biking declines, as we get older. We casually attribute this to the 'aging' process . Tackling coronary heart disease risk factors March 9, 2000 Recognition of the role of risk factors for acute myocardial infarction (MI) has led to the concept of secondary prevention (preventing recurrent coronary events in patients with established coronary heart disease - CHD) becoming well established. Some authorities regard this is as merely the correct treatment of CHD, not a preventive measure. Be that as it may, attention is now passing to the prevention of CHD, and thereby its consequences, in the first place. The review by Dr Scott Grundy, summarized here, gives an excellent status report of what we know (and don't know) of relevant risk factors, and debates how best the necessary steps can be implemented. Infections and arterial disease? January 4, 2000 The risk factors for atherosclerosis (narrowing or blockage of arteries due to fat deposits) - which can lead to heart attacks and stroke - are well known; they include high blood pressure, obesity, raised cholesterol levels and smoking. Effects of smoking are not prevented by having a low cholesterol January 4, 2000 Cigarette smoking is a major risk factor for atherosclerosis (narrowing or blockage of arteries due to fat deposits), which often leads to heart attacks and stroke. Overweight reduces lifespan (really) October 12, 1999 In recent decades the overall death rate has fallen and people are living longer. However, we are constantly being told that we are, in general, overweight. Mediterranean Diet, Traditional Risk Factors, and the Rate of Cardiovascular Complications after Myocardial Infarction: Final Report of the Lyon Diet Heart Study. June 29, 1999 Heart attack patients can reduce their risk for a second attack by consuming a lowfat Mediterranean-type diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and fish and that uses from olive and canola and as the primary source of fat. More reasons to exercise June 29, 1999 The benefits of physical activity for the elderly have long been recognized. Three recent publications, summarized here, reinforce the advantages of being physically fit, with regard to your quality-of-life, health and long life. Resistance training - how much? June 2, 1999 In recent years it has been recognized that resistance training (weight training) can have significant health benefits - improved bone density, glucose metabolism, weight control, and preventing lower back problems. Two experts in the field have recently summarized the available guidelines on strength training - e.g. the best type, duration and frequency. New Food Pyramid for People over 70 June 2, 1999 As more and more research takes place, it's clear that nutritional needs change with age. Certain nutrient requirements change, calorie needs decrease, and attention to fiber and fluid intake is even more important than in younger years. Knowing that that many elders fall short of nutrient recommendations, researchers at Tufts University, Boston suggest changes to the Food Guide Pyramid that make it a more appropriate for the older individuals. Preventing a Stroke May 26, 1999 Stroke is a leading cause of death and disability in older persons. The National Stroke Association recently established an Advisory Board to review published guidelines and make consensus statement about how the risk of having a stroke can be reduced. The members of the Board identified the following risk factors: high blood pressure, a heart attack (myocardial infarction, or MI), raised blood cholesterol, the irregular heart beat known as atrial fibrillation, diabetes, narrowed carotid arteries, and 4 important lifestyle ingredient -- smoking, alcohol use, exercise and diet. Cholesterol-lowering drugs for diabetics after a heart attack ? April 12, 1999 Diabetic patients are at risk of heart attacks to a greater degree than healthy people. Raised blood cholesterol levels are also a risk factor for heart attacks, and a large study completed recently has reported on the treatment of patients who have already had one heart attack with a drug to lower cholesterol levels, even though cholesterol levels were not raised in these patients. The study summarized here is an analysis of the patients from this study who were diabetic or who had abnormal glucose tolerance. Artery wall thickness and the risk of MI or stroke February 26, 1999 Using a non-invasive ultrasound technique, it is possible to measure the thickness of the carotid artery wall. What use is such a measurement? Previous studies have shown that increased carotid wall thickness is representative of atherosclerosis in other arteries, and the occurrence of cardiovascular disease. A new study has now looked for a possible connection between carotid artery thickening and heart attack (myocardial infarction or MI) or stroke in people over 65 who don't have existing cardiovascular disease. More on artery wall thickness measurement February 26, 1999 We have already described the use of ultrasound to measure the thickness of carotid artery walls, and its value in identifying elderly people at risk of a heart attack (myocardial infarction or MI) and stroke. Another recent study, summarized here, looks at the possible connection between the thickness of the inner lining of the carotid artery wall and positive results on treadmill exercise testing. The results suggest that this measurement can help identify those people without symptoms who may however be at risk for coronary artery disease (CAD), without subjecting them to a stress test. Exercise Programs - a Primer February 10, 1999 Older people are repeatedly told about the benefits of physical exercise - how it can help in losing weight, lower blood pressure, improve cholesterol levels, lower blood sugar and slow down osteoporosis. Unfortunately, practical advice is often lacking. The US National Institute on Aging has published a 110-page booklet to help inform people on this subject, and have made a version of it available on the Internet. This summary is intended to introduce the most important topics, giving links to the corresponding pages on the WEB site. Treadmill or weights machine (or both)? January 26, 1999 Older people are being urged, quite correctly, to take more physical exercise. The benefits of increased activity are becoming more obvious, thanks to well-conducted studies in a number of conditions. Unfortunately, one is encouraged to "exercise more", without further guidance. Reversing coronary heart disease without surgery January 6, 1999 Vigorous non-invasive treatment (diet, drugs, exercise etc) has been shown to interrupt, or even reverse, coronary artery disease, and thus prevent myocardial infarction (MI) and sudden death. Dr Lance Gould, a recognized expert, has summarized the scientific evidence showing how this is possible in an on-line conference. Losing weight the healthy way December 15, 1998 This interactive tool provides information, tips and practical exercises in all lifestyle areas that are of importance in achieving permanent weight loss. It offers checklists and menu plans, too, and kicks off with an analysis of individual eating habits.   RELATED ITEMS Mending Your Arteries after the Holidays January 17, 2008 Oranges: They Can Help Prevent Heart Attacks January 3, 2008 Your Diet May Encourage Postprandial Problems December 20, 2007 Tomatoes: A Must Food for Your Heart December 6, 2007 Protect Your Heart during the Holiday Season November 22, 2007 Women's New Cardiac Health Guidelines April 4, 2007 Long-term Survival after a Heart Attack February 19, 2007 Preventing a first heart attack or stroke with a statin January 3, 2007 Dont Stop Taking Your Statin! October 25, 2005 Walnuts for Diabetics (and Other People) January 7, 2005 High Fat Diet to Slow Coronary Disease? Can It Be True? December 22, 2004 Are You a Weekend Warrior? October 29, 2004 Eat Walnuts for Your Arteries' Sake July 29, 2004 Statins Reduce the Risk of Coronary Artery Disease in Type 2 Diabetics July 2, 2004 Start Getting Fit When You're Young - Here's Why! February 12, 2004 Managing More Than Just Diabetes August 14, 2001 Women: Consider Heart Healthy Changes Before the 'Change' July 25, 2001

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