HealthBeat This month’s feature topics are
Dental Health & Heart Health
HealthBeat February: Dental Health & Heart Health
HealthBeat is an excellent
opportunity for you to reach a health-conscious audience of readers. Next Month’s Topics: Nutrition & Athletic Training
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Daily steps to keep your heart healthy
Heart disease is a formidable foe. According the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, heart disease accounts for nearly 25 percent of all deaths in the United States each year. Issues relating to the heart affect both men and women, and an estimated 15 million adults in the U.S. have coronary heart disease, the most common type of heart disease. And heart disease is not exclusive to the United States, as the Heart Research Institute says that every seven minutes in Canada someone dies from heart disease or stroke. Such statistics are disconcerting, but they can serve as a wake-up call that compels people to prioritize heart health. Fortunately, heart disease is often preventable and people can employ various strategies to reduce their risk.
Stop smoking right now
One of the best things to do to protect the heart is to stop smoking. The Heart Foundation indicates that smoking reduces oxygen in the blood and damages blood vessel walls. It also contributes to atherosclerosis, or a narrowing and clogging of the arteries.
Eat healthy fats
When eating, choose polyunsaturated and unsaturated fats and avoid trans fats as much as possible. Trans fats increase one’s risk of developing heart disease by clogging arteries and raising LDL (bad) cholesterol levels. Read food labels before buying anything at the store.
Keep your mouth clean
Studies show that bacteria in the
mouth involved in the development of gum disease can travel to the bloodstream and cause an elevation in C-reactive protein, a marker for blood vessel inflammation. Brush and floss twice daily, and be sure to schedule routine dental cleanings.
Get adequate shut-eye
Ensuring adequate sleep can improve heart health. One study found that young and middle-age adults who regularly slept seven hours a night had less calcium in their arteries (a sign of early heart disease) compared to those who slept five hours or less or
keep their smiles
Healthy & Bright
18 month old patient. Class 3 Lip Tie
Gentle dental care for growing smiles. Come see us for your child’s first appointment!
Photo taken immediately following Labial frenum release with WaterlaseTM
Let Our Family Care for Your Family! Michael R. Dana, D.D.S., P.C. Monique M. Dana, D.D.S., MICOI Bradly R. Dana, D.D.S., MICOI Nicole D. Dana, D.D.S., MICOI
State of the Art Air Sanitation Technology 1306 Main Street 200 Federal Avenue Spearfish, SD Rapid City, SD 605.642.7727 605.342.6038 A General & Cosmetic Dental Practice
www.danadentalarts.com
Just minutes after procedure, patient is happy and ready to eat with no restrictions.
those who slept nine hours or more.
Adopt healthy eating habits
Changes to diet, including eating more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein, can help you lose and maintain a healthy weight, improve cholesterol levels and reduce blood pressure — leading to a healthier heart.
Embrace physical activity
Regular moderate exercise is great for the heart. It can occur at the gym, playing with the kids or even taking the stairs at work.