Health

Holistic Approach to Blood Pressure Management: the superlist

Published

6 months ago

June 4, 2024

Freelancer

High blood pressure, or hypertension, affects millions of people worldwide and can lead to serious health complications if left unmanaged. While medication is often prescribed to control hypertension, many individuals seek natural alternatives to lower their blood pressure. Fortunately, there are numerous natural ways to lower high blood pressure that can complement medical treatment or be used as standalone approaches. From dietary changes to lifestyle modifications, incorporating these natural help for high blood pressure strategies into your daily routine can contribute to better blood pressure management and overall well-being. In this article, we will explore various ways to naturally lower your blood pressure and empower you with the knowledge to take control of your cardiovascular health.

Approximately 20% of the world’s population suffers from hypertension (persistent high blood pressure). This condition negatively impacts quality of life, reduces productivity, and, without systematic treatment, poses risks such as heart attacks, strokes, and other severe ailments that can lead to disability or premature death. The majority of patients take prescribed medications to maintain their blood pressure at a reasonably acceptable level. However, hypertension can also be managed with folk remedies. We present to you three of the most effective ones:

Honey and bee products. Bee honey is a unique biologically active product containing a multitude of substances that have a beneficial effect on the human body. Honey has a soothing effect on the nervous system, reduces vascular sclerosis, lowers blood viscosity, and contributes to the normalization of kidney function. Similar properties are possessed by other bee products: propolis, pollen, royal jelly. Interestingly, honey not only has a hypotensive effect but also optimizes blood pressure, lowering it when elevated and raising it when low. Therefore, preparations with honey are useful to take when blood pressure fluctuates. To combat hypertension, honey is recommended to be taken in combination with pollen or with berries that have a pronounced diuretic effect (for example, with cranberries or lingonberries). Contraindication: a tendency of the patient to allergic reactions to honey and bee products.
Sunflower seeds. It is well known that sunflower seeds and the oil extracted from them are consumed as food. But sunflower seeds also provide invaluable assistance to hypertensive patients, as they contain a large amount of nicotinic acid, which dilates blood vessels and optimizes blood flow. A medicinal decoction is prepared as follows: two cups of raw unpeeled sunflower seeds are poured with 2 liters of cold water and boiled over low heat for two hours. The strained decoction should be consumed within a day, divided into portions of 100 ml each. Regular intake of this remedy ensures normalization of blood pressure and practically has no side effects.
Plantain leaves. This unpretentious plant is widely known as a wound-healing and anti-ulcer remedy. An alcohol tincture of plantain leaves, when taken for a long time, reduces cholesterol levels in the blood, blood pressure, improves the condition of blood vessels, and optimizes heart function. To prepare the remedy, four tablespoons of leaves are poured with 250 ml of vodka and infused in a dark place for two weeks. The tincture is taken in doses of 30 drops three times a day.

Certain nutrients play a key role in blood pressure regulation, making dietary choices an important aspect of natural management. Potassium, found in abundance in foods like bananas, leafy greens, nuts, and dairy products, helps relax blood vessel walls and counteracts the effects of sodium on blood pressure. Magnesium, another essential mineral, supports muscle and nerve function and contributes to blood pressure regulation. Calcium, found in dairy products and fortified foods, helps maintain healthy blood vessel function and supports proper muscle contraction, which can help lower blood pressure over time.

In addition to incorporating specific foods into one’s diet to manage hypertension, it is essential to adhere to the following dietary guidelines:

Phytopreparations from pharmacies. Phytopreparations from medicinal plants sold in pharmacies, such as hawthorn berries, motherwort herb, leaf lettuce, baikal skullcap roots, viburnum berries and bark, calendula flowers, and shepherd’s purse herb, are used to combat hypertension. Excellent remedies for lowering blood pressure are beet root pills, honeysuckle berries, black currants, black chokeberries, walnuts, onions, and garlic. When treating hypertension with folk remedies, it is important to remember that it is not possible to completely get rid of the ailment. It is only possible to maintain blood pressure at an optimal level, but this requires a long continuous intake of selected preparations. It is also very important to consult with your attending physician before starting such therapy.
Regular exercise. Regular physical activity is a cornerstone of maintaining healthy blood pressure levels. Engaging in activities such as brisk walking, swimming, or cycling not only improves cardiovascular health but also strengthens the heart muscle. When we exercise, our bodies release endorphins, which are natural mood lifters that help reduce stress and anxiety. Over time, consistent exercise can lead to lower resting heart rates and more efficient heart function, contributing to lower blood pressure overall.
Healthy diet. A balanced and nutritious diet is vital for managing blood pressure naturally. Focusing on whole foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins while minimizing intake of salt, saturated fats, and processed foods can have a significant impact. High-fiber foods, such as fruits and vegetables, help regulate blood sugar levels and support healthy digestion, which indirectly benefits blood pressure regulation. Additionally, reducing sodium intake helps prevent water retention and decreases the strain on blood vessels, leading to lower blood pressure readings.
Stress management. Chronic stress can wreak havoc on blood pressure levels, so finding effective stress management techniques is essential. Practices like deep breathing exercises, meditation, or yoga help activate the body’s relaxation response, reducing the production of stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. By incorporating these relaxation techniques into your daily routine, you can cultivate a sense of calm and resilience, which can translate into lower blood pressure over time.
Adequate sleep. Quality sleep is crucial for overall health and well-being, including blood pressure regulation. During sleep, our bodies repair and regenerate, and this includes the cardiovascular system. Lack of sleep or poor sleep quality can disrupt the body’s natural rhythms, leading to increased stress and elevated blood pressure. Aim for 7-9 hours of uninterrupted sleep each night to support optimal blood pressure levels and overall health.

In the quest for optimal blood pressure control, the integration of lifestyle interventions alongside traditional pharmacological treatments has emerged as a potent strategy. From the holistic perspective, addressing hypertension involves not only medication but also embracing a range of lifestyle modifications.

By incorporating these lifestyle strategies into your daily routine, you can effectively manage and even lower your blood pressure naturally, promoting better cardiovascular health and overall well-being. However, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before making significant changes to your lifestyle, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medications for blood pressure management.

Health

Report Causes Pfizer Stock to Climb Approximately $1 Billion Acquired by Starboard

Published

2 months ago

October 7, 2024

Salman

(VOR News) – According to a rumor that activist investor Pfizer Starboard Value has taken a holding in the struggling pharmaceutical business that is expected to be worth around one billion dollars, the stock of Pfizer (PFE) is on the increase in premarket trading on Monday.

This comes after the report was made public. The report was made available to the general public following this. Starboard Value was successful in moving forward with the acquisition of the position.

Starboard is said to have approached Ian Read, a former chief executive officer of Pfizer, and Frank D’Amelio, a former chief financial officer, in order to seek assistance with its goals of boosting the performance of the company, according to the Wall Street Journal. Read and D’Amelio are both former Pfizer executives.

The purpose of this is to facilitate the accomplishment of its objectives, which include enhancing the overall performance of the firm.

In their previous jobs, D’Amelio and Read were chief financial officers.

It is stated in the report that the hedge fund is of the opinion that Pfizer, which is currently being managed by Albert Bourla, who succeeded Read as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) in 2019, does not demonstrate the same level of mergers and acquisitions (M&A) discipline that Read did. Bourla took over for Read in 2019. Read was succeeded by Bourla in the year 2019.

Pfizer, a multinational pharmaceutical conglomerate, has made substantial investments in the acquisition of more companies that are involved in the research and development of cancer medicines.

These businesses have been acquired for billions of dollars. The biotechnology company Seagen, which was acquired by Pfizer in the previous year for a price of $43 billion, is included in this category. One of the businesses that can be classified as belonging to this category is Seagen.

In spite of the fact that the S&P 500 Index experienced a 21% increase in 2024.

No major trading occurred in Pfizer stock that year.

Due to the fact that the demand for Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccines fell after the firm reached its pandemic peak in 2021, the share price of the corporation has decreased by over fifty percent since that time.

This drop has occurred ever since the company’s shares reached their maximum peak, which was during the time that this decline occurred. Not only have they not changed at all, but they have also remained essentially stable. This is in contrast to the S&P 500, which has gained 21% since the beginning of this year.

Recently, the corporation was forced to take a hit when it decided to recall all of the sickle cell illness medications that it had distributed all over the world.

Fears that the prescription could lead patients to experience severe agony and possibly even death were the impetus for the decision to recall the product. In spite of the fact that Pfizer’s stock is increasing by almost three percent as a result of the news that followed the company’s decision, this is the circumstance that has come about.

SOURCE: IPN

Health

New Study Reveals Drinking Soda Pop Increases the Risk of Stroke

Published

2 months ago

October 6, 2024

VORNews

If you drink too much soda, fruit juice and coffee, beware!

A recent report from global research indicates that excessive consumption of coffee or soda pop is associated with an increased risk of stroke, although the intake of black and green tea is correlated with a reduced risk. Excessive consumption of soda pop or coffee warrants caution!

Recent research indicates that it may substantially elevate the risk of stroke.

Consuming four cups of coffee daily elevates the risk of stroke, according to studies, although ingesting 3-4 cups of black or green tea daily typically offers protection against stroke. Additionally, consume more coffee; it may reduce your risk of mortality.

Recent findings from global research studies co-led by the University of Galway and McMaster University, alongside an international consortium of stroke researchers, indicate that soda, encompassing both sugar-sweetened and artificially sweetened variants such as diet or zero sugar, is associated with a 22 percent heightened risk of stroke. The risk escalated significantly with the consumption of two or more of these beverages daily.

Stroke Risk Fizzy Drinks and Soda Pop

The correlation between fizzy drinks consumption and stroke risk was most pronounced in Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and South America. Women exhibit the most elevated risk of stroke from bleeding (intracranial hemorrhage) associated with fruit juice beverages. Consuming over 7 cups of water daily diminishes the likelihood of stroke due to a clot.

Researchers observed that numerous items advertised as fruit juice are derived from concentrates and have added sugars and preservatives, potentially negating the advantages often associated with fresh fruit and instead elevating stroke risk.

Fruit juice beverages were associated with a 37 percent heightened risk of stroke resulting from bleeding (intracranial hemorrhage). Consuming two of these beverages daily increases the risk thrice.

Consuming over four cups of coffee daily elevates the risk of stroke by 37 percent, although lower consumption levels do not correlate with stroke risk. Conversely, tea consumption was associated with an 18-20 percent reduction in stroke risk. Additionally, consuming 3-4 cups daily of black tea, such as Breakfast and Earl Grey varieties, excluding green and herbal teas, was associated with a 29 percent reduced risk of stroke.

Consuming 3-4 cups of green tea daily was associated with a 27 percent reduction in stroke risk. Notably, the addition of milk may diminish or inhibit the advantageous effects of antioxidants present in tea. The lower risk of stroke associated with tea consumption was negated for individuals who added milk.

Disclaimer: This article is intended solely for informational reasons and should not be considered a replacement for professional medical counsel. Consistently consult your physician regarding any inquiries pertaining to a medical problem.

Starbucks Faces Sales Decline Amid Price Fatigue and Rising Competition

Starbucks Faces Sales Decline Amid Price Fatigue and Rising Competition

Health

Following a Diagnosis of Breast Cancer, What Else Should You Know?

Published

2 months ago

October 5, 2024

Salman

(VOR News) – Even though breast cancer affects one in eight American women, receiving a diagnosis can make a woman feel isolated.

Experts in breast cancer from the American College of Physicians (ACS) advise patients on how to manage their disease so that they may better cope with this awful information.

First, the kind and stage of breast cancer dictates the course of your care.

In addition to immunotherapy and chemotherapy, there are various surgical options available for the treatment of breast cancer.

Women of African descent are disproportionately affected by triple-negative breast cancer, an extremely aggressive form of the disease that has never proven easy to treat.

According to the American Cancer Society, pembrolizumab (Keytruda), an immunotherapy, has been shown to be helpful when combined with chemotherapy and is currently the recommended course of treatment for certain combinations of triple-negative breast cancer.

In her presentation, Dr. Katharine Yao said, “It’s really important that the patient and physician discuss the patient’s preferences and values when deciding what type of treatment to pursue and that they have an honest, individualized discussion with their care team.”

She is currently responsible for developing breast cancer treatment recommendations for more than 575 hospitals and institutions nationwide in her role as chair of the American College of Surgeons’ National Accreditation Program for Breast Institutions (NAPBC).

Yao, vice chair of research at Endeavor Health NorthShore Hospitals in New York, pointed out that each decision made about a patient’s treatment plan should take her preferences and diagnosis into consideration.

She ought to think about whether she would prefer a mastectomy—a surgical procedure that involves removing the entire breast with or without reconstruction—or a lumpectomy, which involves a surgical procedure that spares part of the breast tissue.

She stated that “the breast cancer you have may be very different from the breast cancer you hear about in your neighbor, colleague, or friend” in a press release issued by the American Cancer Society (ACS).

“Consider that while discussing breast cancer with others.”

Throughout your journey, it is critical that you look after your emotional health because having breast cancer may have a detrimental impact on your mental health.

“Getting a cancer diagnosis does not mean that everything in your life stops to be normal.” Director of the Fellowship in the Diseases of the Breast program at the Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute at the University of Arkansas and state head of the American Cancer Society Commission on Cancer for Arkansas, Dr. Daniela Ochoa She thinks adding the burden of a cancer diagnosis and treatment to all the other pressures in life may be taxing.

“Managing stress and emotional health is vital component of a treatment plan.”

Ochoa recommends clinically trained psychologists and social workers who have assisted people in coping with cancer to anyone receiving treatment. Learning coping techniques might also be facilitated by joining cancer support groups or cancer wellness initiatives.

Breast cancer specialists say your care team is crucial.

The American Cancer Society (ACS) defines comprehensive care as having support at every stage of the procedure from surgeons, oncologists, patient navigators, nurses, social workers, psychologists, and other specialists.

After receiving a breast cancer diagnosis, women should see a surgeon or medical oncologist to explore their options; nevertheless, treatment shouldn’t be discontinued after just one appointment or after surgery is over.

Additionally, you can ask trustworthy friends or family members to accompany you to appointments and aid you with research or notes. They could serve as a network of support for you.

Yao stated in his talk that “one of the most important things is that patients should search out a team they have confidence in, that they trust will have their back when they need it, and a team they feel they can get access to and that will help them when they are in need.”

SOURCE: MP