Cholesterol Archive

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Fruit of the month: Citrus fruits

Citrus fruits such as oranges and tangerines contain heart-healthy nutrients such as fiber and flavonoids. But grapefruit also contains compounds that may increase the blood level of certain statins.

Is extra-virgin olive oil extra healthy?

Studies have shown a link between lower risks of cardiovascular disease, some cancers, and even dementia in people who consume higher amounts of olive oil. However, no definitive studies show extra-virgin olive oil has greater benefits than regular olive oil.

Do statins increase the risk of dementia?

A study published June 29, 2021, by the Journal of the American College of Cardiology (JACC) found no link between statin use and a higher incidence of dementia in adults ages 65 and older, but other studies have described possible cognitive changes related to statin use. Experts say that the benefits of taking a statin for people who have risk factors for cardiovascular disease generally far outweigh the risks. Statin use can reduce the risk of a heart attack or stroke by 25% to 30%.

Statins have no apparent link to cognitive problems or dementia

For older people, taking cholesterol-lower statins does not appear to affect their risk of developing cognitive problems or dementia.

Do people who have COVID-19 go on to develop other diseases?

Evidence suggests that people who recover from COVID-19 have an increased risk for developing new health problems, including heart attacks, high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, muscle inflammation, blood clots that travel to the lungs, strokes from clots or hemorrhages, or psychosis. This is in addition to permanent damage that can result from having COVID, including damage to the lungs, heart, kidneys, brain, or other organs; and debilitating fatigue, difficulty thinking, and other symptoms that make it hard to function normally at work or at home.

Fruit of the month: Apples

Unpeeled apples are good sources of both fiber and compounds called polyphenols that benefit heart health. Eating apples often may help lower blood pressure, cholesterol, and inflammation.

Does early heart disease run in your family?

People with a family history of premature or early coronary artery disease (defined as a heart attack that occurs before age 55 in a man or before age 65 in a woman) face a higher risk of heart disease than people without that family history. Some of this elevated risk comes from genetic factors linked to higher cholesterol and blood pressure values. But unhealthy habits—such as smoking and poor eating and exercise habits—also tend to run in families and may contribute as well.

Heart disease risk: Partnering on lifestyle change can help

For people who have risk factors for heart disease, it's important to make lifestyle changes like losing weight, getting more exercise, and eating a healthier diet. Longstanding habits are hard to change, but managing the challenge of healthy eating is easier if people have a partner who is supportive and involved in making food choices.

Reducing heart risks in the wake of breast cancer treatment

Hormone therapy is a highly successful breast cancer treatment for women, but it can elevate cardiovascular risk. Women can reduce those risks by being vigilant about their heart health and working closely with their doctors. Women who have taken or are taking these medications as part of breast cancer treatment should focus on adopting a healthy lifestyle, exercising regularly, and keeping close tabs on their blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and blood sugar levels.

Fruit of the month: Melons

Melons have a high water content and are fairly low in calories, making them a good choice for people watching their weight. Watermelon contains lycopene and citrulline, two nutrients thought to benefit heart health.

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