Coronary Heart Disease

Coronary heart disease (CHD), which is also called coronary artery disease (CAD) or heart disease, is a medical condition that happens when the coronary arteries, which supply oxygen-rich blood to the heart muscle, become narrowed or blocked by fatty deposits, cholesterol, or other substances that attach to the artery walls and form plaques.

Over time, the plaques build up, reduce blood flow to the heart, and cause serious problems.

  • Angina: Chest pain or discomfort caused by physical activity or emotional stress.
  • Heart Attack: This is when plaque breaks off and forms a blood clot that blocks blood flow to the heart.
  • Heart Failure: This is where the heart cannot pump blood effectively to meet the body's needs.

Risk factors for coronary heart disease:

  • High blood pressure (hypertension)
  • High cholesterol
  • Smoking
  • Diabetes
  • Being overweight
  • Lack of physical activity
  • Unhealthy diet
  • Family history of heart disease
  • Age (risk increases with age)
  • Gender (men have  a higher risk than women)

If you suspect you may have coronary heart disease or any related symptoms, it's crucial to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional can evaluate your condition, perform appropriate tests, and create a treatment plan to manage the disease and reduce the risk of complications.

Home Remedies and Natural Cures for Coronary Heart Disease

Coronary heart disease (CHD) is a serious medical condition that requires proper medical diagnosis and treatment. While home remedies cannot replace professional medical care, some lifestyle changes and natural remedies may help support heart health and reduce the risk factors associated with CHD.

Always consult a healthcare professional before trying home remedies, especially if you have a diagnosed heart condition. Here are some general lifestyle changes and natural remedies that may support heart health: Besides checking with your Doctor and following all medical advice, a healthy lifestyle is necessary and helpful for general health and well-being.

Follow Medical Advice

Heart disease can be made worse by other medical problems. Treat all other physical problems with your physician, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol. Take prescription medicines, such as statins, aspirin, or beta-blockers, to manage cholesterol levels and blood pressure and reduce the risk of blood clots.

Heart Healthy Diet

A low-fat, high-fiber diet is recommended, which should include plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables and whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats. Reduce the amount of fast foods, overly processed food, and saturated and trans fats. Limit the amount of salt you eat, as too much will increase your blood pressure.

Exercise and Weight Management

Participate in regular physical activity and maintain a healthy weight. A healthy weight reduces the strain on the heart. Try gentle exercise like walking, swimming, and cycling to improve heart fitness. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise per week. Check with your Doctor before starting an exercise program.

Limit Alcohol

Alcoholic beverages are dehydrating and increase blood pressure. If you drink alcohol, try to stop completely or drink only rarely and in moderation.

Stop Smoking

Smoking doesn't do one good thing for you. If you smoke, get help to quit smoking, as it is a significant risk factor for CHD. Avoid exposure to secondhand smoke.

Essential Fatty Acids

Omega 3 oils (Essential Fatty Acids) are heart-healthy and part of a healthy diet. Incorporate foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, such as fatty fish (salmon, mackerel, sardines), avocado, walnuts, flaxseeds, and chia seeds. 

Omega 3's are anti-inflammatory antioxidants and "good fats" that contribute to and allow good heart health. Take a supplement if advised to get optimum levels.

Garlic

Some studies suggest that garlic may have cardiovascular benefits. A study published in 2019 in Experimental and Therapeutic Medicine showed that garlic supplements helped lower blood pressure. Researchers said that the reduction of blood pressure reduced cardiovascular disease risk by 16-40%. It's not a bad idea to add this delicious seasoning to your diet or try garlic supplements after consulting with your healthcare provider.

Hawthorn

Hawthorn extract is believed to have benefits for heart health. Hawthorn contains antioxidant flavonoids that help dilate blood vessels, improve blood flow, and protect blood vessels from damage. The hawthorn plant's berries, leaves, and flowers are used for medicinal purposes. Consult with a healthcare professional before using any herbal supplements.

Turmeric

Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, has anti-inflammatory properties that may support heart health. Add turmeric to your meals or consider turmeric supplements under medical supervision.

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)

CoQ10 is an antioxidant that may help support heart health by reducing blood pressure. CoQ10 has been shown to improve symptoms of congestive heart failure. Although findings are mixed, CoQ10 might help reduce blood pressure. Discuss its use and potential benefits with your Doctor.

B Vitamins

Vitamins B6, B9, and B12 might reduce the likelihood of heart disease and stroke. These vitamins aid in producing new red blood cells, which carry oxygen to the body's organs and tissues, resulting in improved circulation. B vitamins contain essential nutrients that help with cholesterol, blood pressure, and other heart-related issues. Take a supplement to increase vitamin B levels, or eat foods such as broccoli, spinach, and beets loaded with these essential vitamins.

Resveratrol

According to Web MD, red wine that contains resveratrol can enhance the health and function of cells in our blood vessels. Resveratrol has antioxidant properties that can decrease blood pressure and reduce pressure on artery walls during heartbeats. Additionally, it can lower inflammation and blood clotting, thus promoting better heart health.

Cautions

Coronary heart disease (CHD) is a serious medical condition that requires proper medical diagnosis and treatment.  Always consult a healthcare professional before trying home remedies, especially if you have a diagnosed heart condition.