Heart Health Archive

Taking magnesium supplements has become popular in recent years, and some evidence suggests this practice may help lower blood pressure, especially for those with high blood pressure or low magnesium levels. But a healthy diet is a better way for people to ensure they're getting enough of this essential nutrient.

Up to half of all heart attack survivors experience some type of psychological distress, including sadness, worry, or irritability. This problem is known as post-myocardial infarction psychological distress. Cardiac rehabilitation is the best way to get treatment.

The 2025 cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) guidelines from the American Heart Association provide recommendations for recognizing and responding to several different types of emergencies, including choking, a suspected opioid overdose, and cardiac arrest.

A transient ischemic attack (TIA), or ministroke, is a serious warning sign for future stroke, especially in the first 48 hours. Medications plus lifestyle changes-healthy eating, regular exercise, and blood pressure control-can significantly lower that risk.

A pescatarian diet pairs plant-based eating with fish and shellfish, offering key nutrients and heart- and brain-protective omega-3s. Choosing smaller, sustainably caught seafood helps limit environmental impact and mercury exposure.

Heart palpitations are sensations of a pounding or racing heartbeat, often triggered by stress, stimulants, or hormonal changes. They're usually harmless but should be checked by a doctor. Palpitations may improve with lifestyle changes or treatment for underlying conditions.

Beta blockers have long been standard treatment for people after a heart attack. New evidence suggests they may not help those whose hearts still pump normally, though the drugs remain important for heart attack survivors with reduced ejection fraction.

High-intensity interval training alternates short bursts of hard effort with recovery, boosting aerobic fitness, heart health, and muscle in less time. For older adults, adjusting intensity to current fitness levels helps keep HIIT safe and effective.

A 2025 analysis suggests that far fewer people are considered candidates for low-dose aspirin to prevent heart disease with the updated PREVENT risk calculator compared with the older risk calculator.

Higher exposure to light at night between 12:30 a.m. and 6 a.m. is linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular problems including coronary artery disease, stroke, atrial fibrillation, heart attack, and heart failure.