Ask someone what they can do to address high blood pressure (aka hypertension), and the first answer is nearly always something like “cut back on salt”. We dietitians also like to teach people about foods you can add that can help (that’s the DASH approach). But rarely do I hear talk…
How much can our health behaviours affect blood pressure? Everyone responds differently, but this chart gives averages from clinical studies for people who have high blood pressure. Typically the higher your blood pressure, the larger the response you can expect to get. For simplicity, it lists just systolic blood pressure…
Happy Heart Month! I’ve been thinking about what I can do to make a difference this Heart Month, and blood pressure keeps floating to the top of my list. 1 in 5 adults in Canada live with high blood pressure (hypertension), with 1 in 3 of them having uncontrolled high blood…
If you or a loved one has had a heart attack, stent, bypass, or other heart problem, you might be interested to know that Calgary’s Heart to Heart Support Society now has a Facebook group to facilitate ongoing support, encouragement, and friendship for those adjusting to life after a cardiac event. History of the Heart to Heart…
Whether it’s new or years in the past, having a heart problem presents unique challenges during the holidays. From negotiating piles of treats to an overloaded schedule or relatives offering unsolicited advice, here are a few tips for keeping the joy in the season: Flex your “no” muscles. You now…
Since I published my guide to eating well after a heart attack , two people have emailed to ask this question. This FAQ will definitely be in the next version, but for now, I’ll answer it here: Nope. If you like the taste of sea salt better, go for it, but don’t be fooled by slick marketing. It’s…
Did you ever notice that people think about salt, sugar, and other demonized foods in all or nothing terms? They’re either good or bad, in or out. So one of the most common questions I get when speaking about blood pressure is, “How can I make food taste good, now…
Health Canada released a report yesterday, “ Sodium Intake of Canadians in 2017 .” Three guesses as to how well we’re doing. No surprise, it’s not pretty. And, uh, 19-30 year-old men? We need to talk. 96% of you are over the recommended sodium intake levels! (Compared to 58% of Canadians overall.) Ease up on the…