Tag: Diet and heart health

First identified in China during the 1930s, Keshan disease is a congestive cardiomyopathy primarily caused by a critical dietary deficiency of the trace mineral selenium, often amplified by viral co-factors. The condition is endemic to specific regions with selenium-poor soil, affecting vulnerable populations like children and women of childbearing age.

According to the American Heart Association, many adults consume far more added sugar than recommended, and this excess intake does push up cholesterol levels. Beyond the more well-known link with saturated fats, a high-sugar diet significantly impacts your lipid profile, contributing to higher "bad" LDL and lower "good" HDL cholesterol.

According to the World Health Organization, cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death globally, with unhealthy dietary habits being a major contributing factor. Understanding which foods increase this risk is essential for making informed dietary decisions and protecting your heart.

High triglycerides are a significant health concern linked to an increased risk of heart disease. The primary dietary culprits that increase triglyceride levels are saturated fats, trans fats, refined carbohydrates, and sugar. Understanding what types of foods are high in triglycerides is the first step toward managing your health effectively.

Over 90% of a typical Western diet's saturated fat intake comes from animal products, leading many to assume all plant-based fats are unsaturated. However, this is a common misconception, as the true nature of plant fats is more complex and varied than a simple generalization.

High-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, often called 'good' cholesterol, plays a vital role in removing excess cholesterol from the body and is linked to a lower risk of heart attack and stroke. While genetics play a part, strategic dietary and lifestyle choices can significantly influence your HDL levels over time, offering a powerful tool for improving cardiovascular wellness.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), proteins are vital for regulating blood clotting, but certain deficiencies can increase risk. This complex relationship begs the question: does protein cause blood clots, or is its role more nuanced and dependent on specific types or amounts?

Almost half of U.S. adults have hypertension, according to the CDC. For those looking to manage this condition, a heart-healthy diet is essential. Red lentil pasta can be a beneficial part of this diet. So, is red lentil pasta good for high blood pressure?

A 2018 survey revealed that 72% of Americans considered coconut oil healthy, while only 37% of nutrition experts agreed. This significant gap highlights the confusion surrounding coconut oil's true health profile, which we will explore in detail.

According to the CDC, over a quarter of U.S. adults have high triglycerides. This begs the question: does fruit sugar increase triglycerides and put your heart at risk? While high intake of fructose-based sweeteners is linked to elevated triglycerides, the effect of whole fruit consumption is vastly different.