Latest news with #Cheng-HanChen
Time of India
5 days ago
- Health
- Time of India
Craving some burger and chips? According to the AHA, these are the best and worst ultra-processed foods one can eat
Craving that juicy burger and crispy chips? Who isn't! Who'd have the strength to resist biting into a meaty piece of patty with loaded different toppings and condiments, while munching on the crispiness of the chips in between? Well, we might not have the will to say no to that good a meal, but as it turns out, we should be – for the sake of our health. Ultra-processed foods have sparked debate among nutrition experts, especially after a government report in May linked them to many chronic illnesses. The American Heart Association (AHA) has now issued a helpful new advisory detailing which ultra-processed foods are 'better,' which are 'worse,' and what that means for your health. So, before you dive in, hold that ketchup and read on. What are ultra-processed foods ? Ultra-processed foods (UPF) are industrially manufactured items made from food substances, often with added chemicals, that are far removed from their natural state. They typically contain ingredients like artificial colors, flavors, preservatives, and texture enhancers, which are rarely or never used in home cooking. Some examples of UPFs include soda, chips, packaged snacks, fast food, and commercially baked goods. In short, think of anything in the section of junk food, almost all of them come under the category of UPF. Now, the new AHA report reflects a growing concern in the health community, especially since ultra-processed foods make up as much as 70% of our food supply. 'Ultra-processed foods are such a large part of the American diet, and whatever we can do to steer our diet toward healthier options would be beneficial to our cardiovascular health,' says Cheng-Han Chen, M.D., interventional cardiologist and medical director of the Structural Heart Program at MemorialCare Saddleback Medical Center in Laguna Hills, CA, as reported by Prevention. So, which ultra-processed foods are less risky, and how should you adjust your diet? Types of foods Foods, based on how much processing they undergo, are ranked using the NOVA system: Unprocessed or minimally processed: Foods close to their natural state, like fruit, vegetables, and milk. Processed culinary ingredients: Items like oils or sugar derived from Group 1 foods, used in cooking. Processed foods: Foods changed by adding ingredients like salt or sugar, such as cheese or canned vegetables. Ultra-processed foods (UPFs): Industrially made items with many ingredients often not used at home, like high-fructose corn syrup, preservatives, artificial flavors, and colors. What does the report say The AHA describes ultra-processed foods as a rising public health issue. Most UPFs are high in saturated fat, added sugar, and sodium (HFSS), factors linked to heart disease, diabetes, stroke, obesity, and inflammation. Research also ties high UPF diets to higher rates of chronic illness and death. But the advisory also notes that not all UPFs are equally harmful; some may even offer health benefits. Experts say it's important to focus less on the broad category and more on identifying UPFs that are especially risky. So, is there any demarcation among the platter of ultra-processed foods? Turns out, there is. The healthiest ultra-processed foods Although the AHA doesn't call these foods healthy, it labels them as better choices within the UPF group. Examples of such foods include: Whole-grain breads and crackers are low in salt Yogurts with low sugar Tomato sauces Nut- or bean-based spreads Dry-roasted flavored chickpeas Dried fruit snacks without added sugar High-fiber, unsweetened cereals Plant-based alternatives like soy milk and tofu are low in salt, sugar, and saturated fat As Keri Gans, R.D., puts it, as reported by Prevention, 'Some ultra-processed foods can provide essential nutrients. In contrast, others are loaded with added sugar, sodium, and unhealthy fats. Knowing the difference helps you choose options that work best for your health and your lifestyle.' Danbee Kim, M.D., adds that these foods 'can actually provide useful nutrients and help people get affordable, convenient foods—especially when fresh options are harder to find.' Labeling some UPFs as more acceptable may help people make better choices instead of rejecting the entire group. Kathleen Moore, R.D.N., explains, 'Labeling all ultra-processed foods as 'bad' may discourage the consumption of some nutrient-rich convenient options... Sometimes it is useful to use some ultra-processed foods to save time or to incorporate balanced meal options when fresh foods are limited.' The least healthy ultra-processed foods As per the AHA, these should be limited or, better, avoided: Chicken nuggets, sausages, hot dogs Sugar-sweetened drinks Liquid cheese products Cookies, candies, gummy snacks Refined white breads and tortillas Ice cream and other dairy desserts Packaged ready-to-heat meals (e.g., boxed macaroni and cheese, frozen pizzas) Chips made from potatoes or tortillas Now comes the big question… Can you eat 'healthy' UPFs often? The simplest way to answer this question is not really. According to experts, yes, you can eat those UPFs – but always in moderation and never in abundance. As per Keri Gans, as reported by Prevention, 'These can provide beneficial nutrients and fit into a balanced diet. However, still pair them with plenty of whole and minimally processed foods for optimal health.' Dr. Chen agrees that whole foods should form the core of your diet, and these processed options should simply play a supporting role. Kathleen Moore adds that more than half of the diet should be unprocessed or minimally processed, especially for those with busy lives. Meanwhile, Dr. Kim suggests viewing 'healthier' UPFs as tools to help keep a balanced, practical diet, but not the main dish. How to cut back on ultra-processed foods As health experts always highlight how consuming UPFs on a regular basis is not good for health, it is also important to understand how you can cut down on those deliciously tempting food items. Here's how: Start with whole foods: Keep canned tomatoes, beans, oatmeal, fruits, vegetables, and grains at home. Gans recommends swapping white bread for 100% whole-grain. Cut the worst UPFs first: Sugary drinks, processed meats, sweets, and salty snacks should be the first to go. Make gradual improvements: Dr. Kim advises, 'It's about progress, not perfection. Swap out the unhealthy ones first, make room for healthier stand-ins when needed, and keep working toward a diet built mostly from whole, real foods.' The American Heart Association's latest advisory offers clarity: not all ultra-processed foods are equally unhealthy. While chicken nuggets and soda are the villains of this story, whole-grain breads, low-sugar yogurts, and plant-based milks can be secret heroes. It's all about smart swaps, tasty balance, and enjoying food without sacrificing your heart. In short, craving taste and convenience doesn't mean compromising health; you just need to choose wisely! 5 Vegetables that can help women to lose more weight
Arab Times
6 days ago
- Health
- Arab Times
Scientists sound the alarm on the worst ultra-processed foods
NEW YORK, Aug 16: The American Heart Association (AHA) has issued a new scientific advisory highlighting the health risks associated with ultra-processed foods, while also identifying some items within this category that may be less harmful when consumed in moderation. Ultra-processed foods—which make up nearly 70% of the modern food supply—are increasingly linked to chronic diseases, including heart disease, type 2 diabetes, obesity, depression, and sleep disorders. 'Ultra-processed foods are such a large part of the American diet, and whatever we can do to steer our diet toward healthier options would be beneficial to our cardiovascular health,' said Dr. Cheng-Han Chen, interventional cardiologist and medical director of the Structural Heart Program at MemorialCare Saddleback Medical Center in California. What are ultra-processed foods? The AHA used the NOVA scale to explain food classifications: Unprocessed/minimally processed foods: fresh fruits, vegetables, milk. Processed culinary ingredients: items like olive oil, almond flour. Processed foods: products with added sugar, oil, or salt such as canned fish or some cheeses. Ultra-processed foods: heavily modified with additives, preservatives, artificial colors or flavors—commonly packaged snacks, sweetened beverages, and ready-to-eat meals. The advisory emphasized that most ultra-processed foods are also high in sodium, added sugars, and saturated fats—making them a 'public health challenge.' Still, the AHA noted that not all ultra-processed foods are equal. Some options can provide useful nutrients and convenience, particularly where access to fresh food is limited. 'Better' ultra-processed food choices The AHA listed the following as comparatively better options when consumed in moderation: Low-sodium whole-grain breads and crackers Low-sugar yogurt Tomato-based sauces Nut- or bean-based spreads Flavored dry-roasted chickpeas Unsweetened dried fruit snacks High-fiber, low-sugar cereals Plant-based dairy and protein alternatives low in sodium, sugar, and saturated fat (e.g., soy milk, tofu) 'These foods can provide essential nutrients and help people access affordable, convenient meals,' said Keri Gans, R.D., author of The Small Change Diet. The 'worst' ultra-processed foods The report also highlighted ultra-processed items most strongly linked to poor health outcomes, including: Chicken nuggets Hot dogs Sausages Sugar-sweetened beverages Processed cheese spreads Cookies, candies, gummy snacks Refined grain breads and tortillas Dairy-based desserts such as ice cream Packaged ready-to-heat meals with refined grains and processed meats Potato and tortilla chips Experts cautioned that even the healthier options should not form the bulk of one's diet. 'Think of healthier ultra-processed foods as a tool—something you can rely on when needed, but not the centerpiece of every meal,' said Dr. Danbee Kim, nutrition expert and weight loss surgeon at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School. Registered dietitian Kathleen Moore added that these foods can be helpful for busy families, but encouraged limiting them to less than half of overall consumption. The AHA recommends gradually replacing processed foods with whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, and whole grains. 'Be prepared by stocking your pantry with nutrient-rich staples like canned tomatoes, beans, and oatmeal,' Gans advised. 'Small swaps, like choosing whole-grain bread instead of white, can make a big difference.' Dr. Chen emphasized, 'We should prioritize whole foods over processed options whenever possible. It's progress, not perfection, that counts.' Dr. Chen emphasized, 'We should prioritize whole foods over processed options whenever possible. It's progress, not perfection, that counts.'
Yahoo
05-08-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Drinking These Teas May Help Lower Blood Pressure, According to Experts
"Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links." Nearly half of American adults have high blood pressure, according to the CDC. But, while it's common, living with hypertension is linked with a higher risk of heart attack and stroke. While there are medications doctors can prescribe to treat high blood pressure, some may suggest making lifestyle changes first. (Always talk to your own doctor for personalized advice!) And, even if you are prescribed a medication, doctors still stress the importance of lifestyle modifications, which might include tweaking your diet. 'Dietary changes are one part of helping regulate and maintain a healthy blood pressure,' says Cheng-Han Chen, M.D., interventional cardiologist and medical director of the Structural Heart Program at MemorialCare Saddleback Medical Center in Laguna Hills, CA. That may include drinking tea, he says. It seems random, but much like studies suggesting that eating more bananas may help lower your blood pressure, there is some research to suggest that drinking certain teas may help with blood pressure management. That doesn't mean that your blood pressure will magically come down if you start sipping Earl Grey every day. And, there are a few side effects and risks to be aware of. (More on this soon!) But, doctors say that adding a little tea to your life may help with your blood pressure. Here's why. Meet the experts: Cheng-Han Chen, M.D., interventional cardiologist and medical director of the Structural Heart Program at MemorialCare Saddleback Medical Center in Laguna Hills, CA; Tara Collingwood, R.D.N., C.P.T., a dietitian and certified personal trainer; Ragavendra Baliga, M.B.B.S., a cardiologist at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center; Keri Gans, R.D.N., dietitian and host of The Keri Report podcast Can tea lower your blood pressure? It's important to state this up front: Always talk to your doctor about any personal blood pressure concerns. Blood pressure is complicated, and it's tough to say that doing something as simple as adding tea to your life will automatically turn things around. But there is some data to suggest that drinking tea may help with blood pressure management. One meta-analysis published in the journal Medicine in 2020 analyzed data from 1,697 people across multiple studies and found that those who regularly drank green tea or green tea extract 'significantly reduced' their systolic (the top number) and diastolic (the bottom number) blood pressure. However, the authors note that additional high-quality trials with larger sample sizes, longer durations, and various catechin dosages are needed to confirm these effects. So, how might tea help? 'Tea, especially green and black varieties, contains polyphenols,' says Ragavendra Baliga, M.B.B.S., a cardiologist at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. These polyphenols improve the function of endothelial cells (the thin layer of cells that line the inside of blood vessels), lower oxidative stress that can lead to cell damage, and enhance the production of nitric oxide, a compound that relaxes and widens blood vessels, allowing for better blood flow and oxygen delivery around the body, he explains. 'These actions can support a modest reduction in blood pressure over time,' says Tara Collingwood, R.D.N., C.P.T. Still, that doesn't mean drinking tea will automatically help your blood pressure—it just may play a role in lowering it. Because of this, it's still important to talk to your healthcare provider for personalized advice, Dr. Chen reiterates. Dr. Baliga also notes that the effects are more noticeable in people who have slightly elevated blood pressure or mild hypertension. Potential risks and side effects There are a few potential risks and side effects to keep in mind before you start downing tea to manage your blood pressure. A big one experts flag is that the caffeine in tea may increase your blood pressure in the short term. 'People who don't have their blood pressure well-regulated may want to avoid it until they get a better range,' Dr. Chen says. There are also potential drug interactions to keep in mind. 'Green tea can affect warfarin, beta-blockers, and reduce folate or iron absorption,' Dr. Baliga says. He also recommends keeping this in mind: If you have more than five cups of tea a day, it can raise your risk of GI issues, iron deficiency, or insomnia. Something else to consider: A lot of the research around tea and blood pressure focuses on black and green tea. Other forms of tea may have different effects on your health. 'Herbal teas like licorice root can raise blood pressure or interact with medicines,' Collingwood says. What type of tea can help lower blood pressure? The research that's available suggests that green tea is the way to go. 'Green tea shows the strongest evidence, followed by hibiscus tea,' Dr. Baliga says. He also notes that black tea can have 'modest effects' on blood pressure. But unsweetened tea of any type can also have an indirect positive impact on blood pressure, points out Keri Gans, R.D.N., dietitian and host of The Keri Report podcast. 'Replacing sugary drinks with these teas can support overall heart health,' she says. How to use tea to lower your blood pressure There's no magic formula for using tea to lower your blood pressure, but Dr. Chen says that consistency may help. So long as you don't have any of the contraindications mentioned above, he recommends starting out by having one unsweetened hot or iced tea a day to see how you like it. After that, Dr. Baliga says you can work up to having two to three cups of green or hibiscus tea a day. 'Avoid sugar and full-fat milk—both may blunt benefits,' he says. Other ways to lower your blood pressure If you've been diagnosed with high blood pressure, it's important to go over your treatment options with your healthcare provider. But Dr. Chen says those may include following the American Heart Association's Life's Essential 8. Those lifestyle tips include: Eat a diet that focuses on whole foods, fruits and vegetables, lean protein, nuts, and seeds. Aim for at least 2.5 hours of moderate-intensity exercise, or 75 minutes of vigorous physical activity a week. Avoid using cigarettes and e-cigarettes. Do your best to get seven to nine hours of sleep a night. Manage your weight. Manage your cholesterol by minimizing sugary foods and drinks, red or processed meats, salty food, refined carbohydrates, and highly-processed foods. Try to manage your blood sugar. Stay on top of your blood pressure. 'Life's Essential 8 helps with almost everything cardiovascular-related,' Dr. Chen says. Bottom line Ultimately, experts recommend keeping tea in mind as an additional treatment for blood pressure. However, it's not the only thing you should be doing to bring your numbers down. 'Tea [is] a pleasant bonus—not a cure-all,' Dr. Baliga says. You Might Also Like Can Apple Cider Vinegar Lead to Weight Loss? Bobbi Brown Shares Her Top Face-Transforming Makeup Tips for Women Over 50
Yahoo
04-07-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
The Number-1 Food to Help Reduce Your Risk of Stroke, According to Dietitians
"Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links." About 795,000 people in the U.S. experience a stroke each year, which can be a life-altering experience. While you can't influence some risk factors like your age or your genetics, there are lifestyle tweaks you can make to help. That includes making diet tweaks by adding foods that may help lower your risk of stroke. Overall, following a healthy eating pattern can help lower a slew of stroke risk factors, including your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar regulation, says Cheng-Han Chen, M.D., interventional cardiologist and medical director of the Structural Heart Program at MemorialCare Saddleback Medical Center in Laguna Hills, CA. Meet the experts: Scott Keatley, R.D., co-owner of Keatley Medical Nutrition Therapy; Keri Gans, R.D.N., dietitian and host of The Keri Report podcast; Sonya Angelone, R.D.N., is a nutritionist and registered dietitian based in San Francisco, California; Kristine Dilley, R.D.N, a nutritionist at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center; Cheng-Han Chen, M.D., interventional cardiologist and medical director of the Structural Heart Program at MemorialCare Saddleback Medical Center in Laguna Hills, CA There are specific diets linked to a lower risk of stroke: the DASH diet and Mediterranean diet. 'These dietary patterns are similar in that they both encourage increasing your intake of plant-based foods such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains, beans and legumes; lean meats, fish, low-fat dairy, and heart healthy fats such as olive oil,' says Kristine Dilley, R.D.N, a nutritionist at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. 'In addition to the nutritional benefits of these diets, they are also generally lower in calorie density which may aid in weight loss. Even relatively small decreases in weight can significantly improve your risk.' Certain nutrients may be more helpful than others, though. 'Diets rich in anti-inflammatory [foods] and nutrients that keep your veins and vessels nice and open—like potassium, omega-3s, polyphenols, and magnesium—can lower blood pressure, improve artery flexibility, and reduce clotting, all of which significantly reduce the risk of both ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes,' says Scott Keatley, R.D., co-owner of Keatley Medical Nutrition Therapy. It's also important to limit certain things if you're worried about your stroke risk. 'Having a balanced diet lower in saturated fat, lower in sugar, and lower in processed foods will all be helpful,' Dr. Chen says. While focusing on an overall healthy diet is important, it's fair to wonder if certain foods are better for reducing your stroke risk than others. With that in mind, these are the biggest foods dietitians and a cardiologist recommend focusing on to lower your stroke risk. While Dr. Chen says you can't go wrong focusing on fruits, vegetables, nuts, whole grains, and lean proteins, some foods may be more powerful for lowering your risk of stroke than others. These are the biggies, according to experts. Think: Spinach, kale, and arugula. These are a top choice of Sonya Angelone, R.D.N., a nutritionist and registered dietitian based in San Francisco, California. 'Green leafy vegetables can lower stroke risk because of their high content of nitrates,' she says. 'The body converts nitrates into nitric oxide, which can help relax the pressure in arteries, promote healthy blood flow, and reduce blood pressure.' A study published in the European Journal of Epidemiology in 2021 found a link between people who had at least 60 milligrams a day of nitrates from vegetables and a 17% lower risk of stroke. (That's equal to about a cup of leafy green vegetables.) Leafy greens are also rich in vitamin K, which helps regulate clotting, Keatley says. 'They also have vitamins, minerals, and fiber which are associated with a lower stroke risk,' Angelone says. Citrus fruits like oranges and grapefruit contain vitamin C, folate, and potassium, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, Dilley says. These also contain soluble fiber, which can help lower your cholesterol (another stroke risk factor). Just be aware that grapefruit can interfere with certain medications, so Angelone warns that it's best to check in with your healthcare provider to make sure you're not taking anything that may interact with the fruit. Walnuts have repeatedly been flagged as a food that's friendly to your cardiovascular system. One study published in the journal Circulation in 2021found that eating about a ½ cup a day of walnuts for two years lowered levels of LDL ('bad') cholesterol. (High levels of LDL cholesterol are a risk factor for stroke.) The big allure of walnuts is their omega-3 fatty acid content. 'This may support heart health and reduce inflammation in the body,' says Keri Gans, R.D.N., dietitian and host of The Keri Report podcast. 'They are a good source of alpha linolenic acid, a type of omega-3 fatty acid,' Angelone says. 'This has been shown to reduce inflammation, improve blood flow, and lower blood pressure.' Walnuts are also packed with antioxidants and other nutrients that are protective for your cardiovascular system, she says. 'Yogurt offers calcium, potassium, and probiotics, which contribute to lower blood pressure and better lipid balance, particularly when it replaces processed or sugary snacks,' Keatley says. Something else to consider, per Angelone: Yogurt is considered part of the DASH diet, which is also great for stroke prevention. Just aim for low-sugar options, since Dr. Chen points out that added sugar can raise your risk of cardiovascular disease. Whole grains like oats are packed with magnesium, B-vitamins, and antioxidants to protect your vascular health, Keatley says. 'They also contribute fiber that promotes steady blood sugar,' he says. Whole grains may also help tamp down on bodily inflammation, further lowering your stroke risk, Angelone says. Fatty fish like salmon, sardines, and mackerel are rich in EPA and DHA, Keatley points out. 'These reduce inflammation, stabilize heart rhythm, improve lipid profiles, and make platelets less sticky, thus reducing clot risk,' he says. Fatty fish can also help to lower your blood pressure and cholesterol, which are major risk factors for stroke, Angelone says. One more thing to consider, per Dilley: Fatty fish are a lean source of protein, which can help with weight management, and excess weight is linked with a higher risk of stroke. Soluble fiber retains water and turns into a gel in your GI tract, slowing digestion. Foods rich in soluble fiber lower LDL cholesterol and help manage blood sugar spikes that can damage your blood vessels, Keatley says. There are a bunch of foods that fall into this category, but Dilley says these are some of the best: Apples Apricots Figs Pears Carrots Broccoli Sweet potatoes While Dr. Chen recommends that his patients have lean proteins, he says he specifically encourages plant-based proteins. Research published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition in 2024 found that, compared to people who ate high levels of animal protein, people who ate plant-based protein had a 19% lower risk of cardiovascular disease and a 27% lower risk of coronary heart disease. 'Beans such as black beans and kidney beans are a nutritional powerhouse in that they supply both soluble fiber and a healthy serving of plant-based protein at meals,' Dilley says. 'Increasing intake of plant-based proteins allows you to decrease intake of some animal-based foods that may be higher in saturated fat.' The foods we just mentioned are the biggest ones flagged by dietitians and Dr. Chen, but experts say these are also worth adding to your dietary rotation: Coffee. 'The chemical compounds in coffee, including trace minerals and phenolic compounds, act as antioxidants and may have a beneficial effect on cholesterol levels, oxidation, and inflammation,' Angelone says. 'So, drinking moderate amounts of coffee, including decaf, may help decrease risk for stroke.' Beets. 'These are also nitrate-rich and support nitric oxide production,' Keatley says. Avocados. These fruits 'provide potassium and heart-healthy monounsaturated fats,' according to Keatley. Green tea. Rich in catechins that reduce oxidative stress, sipping green tea may help lower your stroke risk, Keatley says. Legumes. These powerhouse plants 'supply plant-based protein and fiber,' Keatley points out. Dark chocolate. The flavonoids found in dark chocolate 'improve nitric oxide bioavailability and may modestly reduce blood pressure,' Keatley says. (Just eat this in moderation, of course.) If you're especially concerned with your stroke risk, Dr. Chen says it's important to talk to a healthcare provider. They can walk you through your personal risk factors, as well as what you can do to lower your risk. You Might Also Like Can Apple Cider Vinegar Lead to Weight Loss? Bobbi Brown Shares Her Top Face-Transforming Makeup Tips for Women Over 50
Yahoo
20-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
How to Measure The Exact Age of Your Heart, According to Cardiologists
You (probably) know how old you are. But do you know the functional age of your heart? That number isn't quite as simple as counting the number of birthdays you've had. Various lifestyle factors can age your heart, while others help keep it young and healthy. For example, a 60-year-old who exercises and follows the Mediterranean diet could have the heart of a 40-year-old. Conversely, a sedentary 35-year-old who only eats ultra-processed foods may have a heart that's closer to 50.🩺SIGN UP for tips to stay healthy & fit with the top moves, clean eats, health trends & more delivered right to your inbox twice a week💊Not sure how old your heart is? Good news: You don't have to guess anymore. Scientists have identified an ingenious way to measure it, and it's so simple you can find out today—or at least this week. Related: According to a recent study published in the journal Open Heart, getting an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) can help identify the functional age of someone's heart. It can also reveal how certain unhealthy habits and health conditions age your heart by decades, the study authors the study, doctors around the world collected MRI scans from 557 people: 191 were healthy and 366 had chronic health conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes and/or obesity. The MRI type for the study used cardiac magnetic resonance and measured various factors, including the size and strength of the heart chambers. Using these measurements, the researchers applied a formula to estimate the heart's 'functional age." This refers to how old the heart acts, rather than a person's actual age. 'Our new MRI approach doesn't just count your birthdays. It measures how well your heart is holding up," explains , a cardiologist at the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital and lead study author. 'This is a game-changer for keeping hearts healthier, longer."Related: People who followed a healthy lifestyle had heart ages that closely matched their chronological age. Meanwhile, those with chronic conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity and/or irregular heartbeats tended to have hearts that aged faster than they did. For example, a 50-year-old with high blood pressure might have a heart functioning like that of a 55-year-old. 'Imagine finding out that your heart is 'older' than you are," says Dr. Garg. For people with conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes or obesity, this is often the case."That being said, a cardiac MRI scan is only one proposed method for measuring heart health. According to Dr. Cheng-Han Chen, MD, an interventional cardiologist and medical director of the Structural Heart Program at MemorialCare Saddleback Medical Center, who was not involved in the study, said there is, technically, no one universal "definition" of heart age."Much more research will be necessary before we know whether this particular method can provide clinically useful prognostic information," he explains. "We are still in the early stages of understanding how best to determine a 'heart age', and how such a calculation would help us better take care of patients."Related: Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women in the United States, and it's also a top cause of death for men. Some people experience no symptoms until it's too late, discovering only after the fact that their hearts have already sustained serious damage. Measuring your heart's age gives doctors a powerful tool to identify risk early and before it progresses into more dangerous or irreversible complications. "People with health issues like diabetes or obesity often have hearts that are aging faster than they should, sometimes by decades," Dr. Garg explains. "This could help doctors step in early to stop heart disease in its tracks." Dr. Chen adds other reliable methods for estimating your heart's age, including biomarkers like blood pressure, height and weight. Amassing such a detailed report of your heart might be the wake-up call people need to take their health seriously, before they enter their later years with a long list of preventable at the end of the day, graceful aging starts from within. Up Next:Cardiac MRI Markers of Ageing: A Multicentre, Cross-sectional Cohort Study. Open Heart. Pankaj Garg is an associate professor of cardiology at the University of East Anglia and a consultant cardiologist at Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital. Cheng-Han Chen, MD, is an interventional cardiologist and medical director of the Structural Heart Program at MemorialCare Saddleback Medical Center. About Women and Heart Disease. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
