High Blood Pressure

Introduction

Higher than normal blood pressure is a major risk factor for a heart attack or stroke. High blood pressure shows there is increased resistance to blood flow through the arteries which means the heart must work harder to send the same amount of blood through the arteries.

The Symptoms

• Headaches.
• Irritability and nervousness.
• Dizziness.
• Energy loss.
• Fatigue.
• In the advanced stage the heart can be enlarged.
• Myocardial infarction (heart attack) in the advanced stage.
• Cerebral haemorrhage.

Smokers, older people, those who have chronic stress, obese and overweight people are at an increased risk of developing high blood pressure.

The Causes

Elevated blood pressure is closely associated with dietary and lifestyle factors:

• Obesity.
• Mineral deficiencies and imbalances.
• Low levels of magnesium, calcium and vitamin C.
• A diet low in fibre but high in saturated fat.
• Low intake of omega 3 fatty acids.
• Excessive consumption of sugar.
• Excessive consumption animal food products.
• Smoking and passive smoking.
• Drinking alcohol.
• Excessive coffee consumption.
• Lack of exercise.
• Chronic stress.

Those who may have any of the risk factors or symptoms above might like to consider a **Nutritional consultation Cardiovascular Risk Check

Taking the appropriate dietary measures with supplementation, exercise and relaxation can help lower blood pressure without any risk of side effects.

High blood pressure above systolic 140 – 180, diastolic 95 – 104 should be reported to your doctor immediately and the risk factors reduced or removed.

High Cholesterol

Introduction

Cholesterol is essential for proper body function, especially in the cell membrane. It is only when cholesterol is raised above the normal levels that it poses a health problem.
Having high levels of cholesterol is an indicator of a metabolic defect, dietary deficiencies or excesses that are influenced by lifestyle factors. It is of utmost importance to keep cholesterol levels within the normal range as a step in preventing angina, heart attacks and strokes.

From cholesterol, the liver makes bile acids that are needed for digestion of fats and oils, for lubricating and softening stool and for absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. Cholesterol is also needed for the formation of active vitamin D, the sex hormones oestrogen and progesterone, as well as protecting the skin against wear and tear due to wind, sun and water. Acting as an antioxidant, cholesterol protects us to some extent against carcinogenic (cancer-causing) factors that enter the body. However, when the level is raised above what the body needs, then symptoms and complications will develop.

The Symptoms

Other than having an increased level of cholesterol in the blood there are no symptoms.

Who is at Risk?

• People above 35 years of age if they are exposed to the risk factors listed below.
• Those with a family history of elevated cholesterol levels.

The Causes

• Smoking and passive smoking
• A diet high in saturated fats.
• Low thyroid function (hypothyroidism).
• Consumption of hydrogenated oils, such as margarine.
• Over consumption of refined carbohydrates, especially sugar.
• Lack of adequate physical exercise.
• Genetic predisposition to excess cholesterol production.
• Consumption of coffee, tea and alcohol.
• Chronic stress.
• Obesity and overweight.

Raised blood cholesterol levels increase the risk of suffering from cardiovascular diseases such as heart attack, angina, stroke and high blood pressure. Very elevated cholesterol should be reported to your doctor.
If you would like to know your cholesterol status or you are exposed to the above risk factors, you might like to consider **A Nutritional consultation, Cardiovascular Risk Check, Total cholesterol test.