Alternative Treatments for Heart Disease

Heart disease is a serious condition that needs to be monitored by a doctor. There are some alternative treatments that may be effective in preventing heart disease. Prevention is one of the strengths of alternative medicine, which emphasize a holistic care of the body and mind.

There are many types of heart disease, which may or may not have symptoms. According to the Cleveland Clinic website, risk factors that we have no control over include: age, male gender, female menopause, family history of heart disease and race.

There are risk factors that we have a certain measure of control over, that may be improved with lifestyle changes. Risk factors that we have some control over include smoking, high LDL cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes, overweight or obesity, physical activity and nutrition. Risk factors that may contribute to the condition include stress and drinking alcohol.

Alternative treatments can help improve some of the risk factors by controlling weight, using mind body medicine to alleviate stress and adopting lifestyle habits that can help to lessen risk factors.

Nutrition and Diet: Even minor changes in nutrition can help reduce risk. A diet low in fat and salt can help to reduce the risk of heart disease. Heart Healthy Diets Promote Weight Loss

Vitamins: In addition to eating a healthy diet, some vitamin and mineral supplements may be beneficial for the heart. Supplements that may be helpful include magnesium, potassium, niacin, B vitamins, Vitamin E, fish oil and Omega 3 oils.

Mind - Body Medicine: Stress reduction can help to reduce heart disease risk. Mind - body techniques include yoga, meditation, bio feedback and massage. At Home and Alternative Remedies for Anxiety

Body Work: Body work reduces stress and can help strengthen the immune system. Body work techniques include massage, yoga and stretching exercises.

Chiropractic: Chiropractic is not an appropriate for an acute heart condition, but the chiropractic physician can help to improve general health and advise about suitable diet and lifestyle habits. Stress Relief to Reduce Back Pain

Herbal Therapies: Some herbal remedies can be quite strong and have potential side effects, therefore a qualified herbal therapist should be consulted for information about herbal medicine.

Lifestyle: Lifestyle habits that may reduce heart disease risk include physical activity (exercise), not smoking, healthy nutrition, adequate sleep and stress reduction.

Alternative health practices are not recommended for an acute or emergency situation. If you have a concern about heart health, please see a physician. If you are already under a doctor's car, it is recommended that you discuss alternative health practices with the doctor before making lifestyle changes.

Information in this article is not intended as medical advice. If you have a medical condition, please consult a qualified physician.

Resources:

National Institute of Health
Cleveland Clinic website
American Heart Association
Time Life The Medical Advisor

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