by Dr. Fred Harvey, MD  

Valentine’s Day is almost here, and we are officially in American Heart Month. February 5 is recognized as National Wear Red Day in conjunction with The American Heart Association’s “Go Red for Women” to help raise awareness for heart disease in women.  

The incidence of heart-related fatalities continues to rise, and it remains the most common—yet preventable—cause of death. All it takes to lower the risk is a real commitment to lifestyle changes. Many people have quit cigarettes and the other tobacco products, but nicotine use still a major cause of heart disease and death.  

Obesity and diabetes are also prevalent causes of cardiovascular disease. Both contribute to high blood pressure as well. Exercise if critical to eliminating these forms of illness. The first step in a healthy lifestyle program is to put one foot in front of the other and walk for at least 30 minutes on a daily basis—preferably outside in nature. If walking is too painful, then either cycle or swim for 30 minutes daily.  

A plant-based, Mediterranean diet with 80–90 percent plant foods and only 10–20 percent animal foods is ideal for preventing and reversing heart disease. A daily program of stress reduction, such as a mindfulness practice or even a hobby like painting that allows your mind to clear of negative thoughts, has also been shown to help reduce cardiac events. In addition to these proven lifestyle interventions, nutritional supplements, homeopathic remedies, and chelation therapy can help with specific heart conditions as well.  

A daily intake of omega-3 fats from fish and algae is also highly supportive to the cardiovascular system. Magnesium relaxes the blood vessels to lower high blood pressure. Coenzyme Q10 supports the failing heart pumps and strengthens the liver if you must take a statin drug—yes, even statin drugs have a place. They reduce the risk of heart attacks in the year following a heart attack or stent. Finally, drainage drops are homeopathic remedies that can help reduce the toxicity of pharmaceutical drugs when in the event they must be taken. Check with a healthcare professional regarding the appropriate use of any treatment.

At the Harvey Center, we encourage healthy steps to optimize heart health in all our patients. The Harvey Center for Integrative Medicine is located at 3982 Bee Ridge Road, Suite J, Sarasota. For more information and to schedule an appointment, call 941-929-9355 or visit HarveyCenter.com.