Researchers are finding that nutritional and other preventative intervention must begin at an early age, since harmful conditions leading to cardiovascular disease can start in childhood. Cultural and Clinical studies show these powerful lifestyle measures (diet, smoking, cessation, weight maintenance, and exercise) to reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular disease.

A decrease of dietary intake of cholesterol, saturated fats, and transfats from margarines and junk food is essential. Limit refined carbohydrates and sugar intake, also, as excess blood sugar is sent to the liver for repackaging as cholesterol. The body makes nearly 80% of circulating cholesterol through the repackaging of excess blood sugar. In addition, this over-stimulation of insulin production promotes diabetes and hardening of the arteries.

Essential Fatty Acids
Cardiovascular disease is the largest cause of death in the United States. Recently, a gene has been discovered that is linked to the development of atherosclerosis, which is the build up of cholesterol in the artery walls and is the underlying cause of most heart attacks and strokes. This gene’s action is controlled by diet.
Research has found that the adverse effects of this gene were blocked by the intake of fish oils, which mediates chronic inflammation of arterial walls. Patients who began fish oils supplementation after their first heart attack had a 30% decrease in sudden death from a second cardiovascular incident in comparison to those patients not on supplementation. This significant decrease was attributed to fish oil's ability to reduce arrhythmia.

Autopsy studies have shown that the highest degree of coronary artery disease is found in the individuals with the lowest concentration of Omega 3 fatty acids in their tissues.

The American Heart Association recommends patients with documented heart disease should consume one gram of fish oil daily (i.e. EPA-DHA). Individuals with elevated triglycerides should consume between two to four grams daily.

• Low dose anti-oxidant use reduces cardiovascular death rate by 37% and cancer diagnosis by 33% in men ages 45-60, as well as reducing the chance of developing Alzheimer's


• There is good evidence that exercise is beneficial for high blood pressure patients.


• A rapid rise of blood pressure occurs whenever we hold our breath and exert. Relaxed breathing at a regular cadence is important, especially when weight lifting.


• Erectile dysfunction is often an early warning sign of cardiovascular problems. Be aware of the fat content in your menu selection, keeping in mind what you truly want super sized !!