Diet and Exercise
Exercise is essential to good cardiovascular health and can help prevent
the development of osteoporosis. Regular exercise will improve cholesterol
levels (lower LDL and raise HDL), enhance diabetes and blood pressure
control and lower stress levels.
In general, 30 minutes of regular exercise (sufficient to break a sweat)
at least 3 times per week is recommended. In patients with substantial
amounts of plaque as measured by the EBT heartscan, we recommend an
exercise treadmill test by a physician before initiating a vigorous
exercise program. There are numerous books and videos among other resources
to help in your decisions about proper exercise routines….email
us for more information.
There are extensive resources (books, videos, websites, nutritionists,
etc) advising about a heart-healthy diet. In general, the new American
Heart Association guidelines offer recommendations about maintenance
of an ideal weight, and correct dietary choices including meals with
less saturated and total fat, more fiber, fish and decreased salt intake.
We specifically can recommend some great resources including a cookbook
by the “cooking cardiologist”, Dr. Richard Collins (Omaha,
Nebraska) and great information from Denver preventive cardiologist
and athlete Dr. Richard Flanigan. We have access to his informative
and entertaining video called “Longevity made simple” which
can certainly benefit everyone. In addition, we have a special collection
of books, CD ROMs and audiotapes from dynamic Australian cardiologist
Dr. Ross Walker---please inquire!
