Heart disease is the #1 killer of both women and men in the U.S.as well as the leading cause of disability. The most common cause of heart disease is coronary artery disease, a narrowing of the blood vessels that supply the heart with blood. Over time, coronary artery disease can lead to a heart attack. It is essential to recognize that this leading cause of death is PREVENTABLE! As with any disease, in Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), heart disease is simply the result of the body being out of balance, usually for quite a while. Western medicine is now recognizing that this condition is a result of long term inflammation and accumulation in the blood vessels. In other words, while a heart attack can happen overnight, heart disease happens over years in a body that is out of balance. While Western medicine's technology and drugs can often mend and support a body already with heart disease, there is very little done to intercept or reverse it other than lifestyle recommendations. Through techniques used in TCM (acupuncture, herbs, massage, nutrition, etc.), the body can be rebalanced and encouraged to heal at any point of the heart disease process. In addition, the mind/body support provided by TCM often allows lifestyle changes to be easier to incorporate and follow long-term. In celebration of this month of love and hearts, try and incorporate some of the foods that support the heart into your diet:
Green vegetables - broccoli, asparagus, spinach
Orange fruits and veggies - carrots, oranges, sweet potatoes, cantaloupe, papaya
Red fruits and veggies - tomatoes, red bell peppers, red grapes, beets, pomegranate
Beans - black beans and kidney beans
Berries - hawthorn berries, blueberries, cherries, longan berries (a type of lychee)
Fish - salmon, tuna and sardines
Whole grains - oatmeal, brown rice
Dark chocolate and red wine (in moderation)
Soy - tofu, soy milk
Nuts and seeds - walnuts, almonds, flax seeds (ground), pumpkin seeds
Tea - green and black
In TCM, the heart not only regulates blood circulation, but also contributes to the control of consciousness, sleep, spirit, and memory, making it an even more important organ to pamper. Finally, joy is the emotion of the heart system, so make sure to include plenty of activities in your day that bring you joy and laughter!
Comments