Heart disease is the number one killer in the United States. Over a half million people every year die from this disease, according to the CDC. Additionally, the CDC states the estimated cost of treating and managing this problem for 2010 will be well over $300 billion. There are many forms of self or home treatment that can be incorporated with standard treatment to reduce the risk of a first or second heart attack.
Quit Smoking
For those who smoke, quitting smoking is the greatest way to reduce risks involved with heart disease. Separate from heart disease, the American Heart Association states cigarette smoking accounts for more than 15 percent of all premature deaths a year. The Surgeon General even states smoking is "the leading preventable cause of disease and deaths in the United States." Work to quit smoking by setting a quit date and gradually reducing the number of cigarettes smoked per day until the quit date is reached. There are many programs and support groups in every state for quitting smoking.
Diet
The Cleveland Clinic recommends a diet high in antioxidants obtained from fresh and lightly steamed fruits and vegetables for heart disease. While supplementation of Vitamin E as an antioxidant has not been proven to help with heart disease, an antioxidant rich diet is linked to lowered risks for heart disease. The best sources of antioxidants are in green leafy vegetables, nuts, dark orange, dark green and red vegetables, and fruit. Five to 10 servings of fruits and vegetables a day are recommended to see the benefits, according to the Cleveland Clinic.
Supplements
The only supplement supported by the American Heart Association is Omega 3 oil. The AHA believes it is more important to add two servings of 3.5 ounces of fish a week rather than supplementing, but when it is not possible to obtain that much fish then supplementation should be considered. Doses of Omega 3s, which include both DHA and EPA, are recommended to be kept under 3 grams a day, unless directed by a physician.
Stress Relief
Leading a high-stress lifestyle is a risk factor for coronary artery disease. Those who already have heart disease have a higher likelihood of faster disease progression when combined with high stress, anxiety and depression, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Addressing and taking measures to reduce stress and emotional disorders help to slow the course of coronary heart disease. There are many popular options for stress relief including, imagery, using guided audio tracks to help imagine better health or surgery process, meditation, yoga, hypnosis, prayer, music and art therapy, massage and acupuncture. While the Cleveland Clinic states studies are still formulating data on these various therapies, attempts at stress reduction in combination with other therapies is helpful for reducing the disease process.
