February is a month chock full of hearts. Not only is Valentine’s Day one of the biggest holidays in the United States, but February is also American Heart Month. Even beyond February, however, it’s important to focus on
heart health. One thing a lot of people do not think about is that over 11.3% of adults in the United States have some sort of heart disease. Heart disease, in fact, is the leading cause of death for both men and women. Traditionally, doctors have followed a pretty standard set of recommendations for improving heart health. Recently, however, studies have shown that acupuncture can have a significant effect on heart health as well.
First of all, it is important to regularly get checked by your doctor, even if you are not sick. They are the ones who can tell you where you stand, medically speaking. Scheduling a visit with your doctor is a great way to get started thinking about the health of your heart. Your doctor is going to suggest some things you do to improve your general health (which will also help your heart remain healthy as well). You have probably heard many of these, but they bear repeating:
- Exercise regularly, at least 30 minutes 3 times a week.
- Stop smoking.
- Improve your diet and cultivate healthy eating habits.
- Stay active even when not exercising.
- Avoid stress and increase relaxation activities.
Statistics show one in three women die from cardiovascular disease and stroke each year. That equals out to one death every 80 seconds. The lifetime risk of stroke is higher in women than in men. Not only that, but fewer women survive their first heart attack than men as well. Thus, it is of even higher importance for women to get checked regularly for heart health.
One additional step that many people do not take into consideration is alternative therapies for improving heart health. One of the best is acupuncture. The way acupuncture works in a number of ways. Acupuncture can cause the body to release opioids, which can decrease the oxygen needs of the heart and help lower blood pressure. It also helps with the management of appetite, allowing you to avoid overeating (one of the leading causes of heart disease). By improving sleep and reducing stress, acupuncture takes some of the strain off of the heart and promotes healing.
For older adults, particularly women, it is extremely important to maintain a healthy heart. As the leading cause of death in the United States, heart disease is too important to be ignored. As part of American Heart Health month, and even beyond, it would pay to make an appointment if you’re considering acupuncture and alternative health treatments. It would also help you to look into some activities that could increase the health of your heart by keeping you more active.
Don’t leave your health up to chance. Take preliminary steps to keep your body, and your heart, in tip top shape. It’s never too late to make positive changes.
To find out how Longevity Acupuncture can help you maintain heart health, and help with many other conditions, contact Dr. Litman today for a consultation.
(305) 772-4386