5 Heart Disease Myths BUSTED!
By
Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Posted October 5, 2018
Being a doctor is only part of my job… I like to consider myself a “medical myth buster.”
When patients come to me for the first time, lots of them have head their heads filled with bad information for years.
This bogus health advice comes from the drug companies… the mainstream medical establishment… the news media… and even our own government.
And that’s especially true when it comes to heart health.
But I’m going to reveal the 5 WORST lies that are destroying your heart health.
And I’ll show you how EASY it can be to keep your heart healthy your whole life.
Here is my list of the top 5 heart-health myths:
Myth #1: Fat is Bad for You
Most people believe that fat will cause a hart attack, but it's not true. Many good scientific studies show that vegetable oils (sunflower, canola, corn oil etc.) and trans fats (found in processed foods or margarine) are the real culprits because they increase inflammation. Fats from butter and saturated fats (found in meats) are more stable and do not increase heart disease.
Myth #2: Don’t Eat Eggs
I think most people have gotten the news that eggs aren't as bad as we used to think they were. Study after study show people who eat eggs once or twice a day have lowered risk for heart disease and stroke compared to those who never ate eggs.
Myth #3: Stay Away From Red Meat
I still see headlines saying red meat is bad for you, but they are simply untrue. Red meat can be an essential part of a healthy diet, and provides us important nutrients many of us are missing – including magnesium and B vitamins.
Myth #4: Skip the Salt
For years the salt shaker has been off our tables due to concerns that salt increases blood pressure. But the reason salt was demonized is because more than 70%-80% of the salt most people eat shows up in processed, prepackaged, and restaurant food.
That means there are plenty of other chemicals taking a ride along with salt that can cause heart problems (the real culprits are trans fats and sugars). I recommend people eat all the salt they want – as long as it is a non-processed type of salt.
Myth #5: Take It Easy On Exercise
Many people who have heart disease or a family history of heart disease are fearful of exercise, but that is definitely not heart smart. Physical activity will strengthen your heart and improve your overall health. I generally recommend you exercise in some form every day.
Let’s take the next step and make sure your heart stays strong for your entire life.
Dr. Scott’s Heart Disease Program:
- Get Enough Exercise: As I said, you need exercise. Exercise not only reduces inflammation, but is great for the heart (and the brain). You don’t have to be too crazy, just get out and move your body around every day.
- Eat Colorful Foods: This means getting enough vegetables in your diet. If you can’t stand veggies, you can “cheat” by getting your veggies and other superfoods in a powered form. I take one every day by mixing it into yogurt and some berries.
- Avoid Vegetable Oils: Vegetable oils, especially trans fatty acids, are like setting off tiny bombs in your blood stream which increase inflammation.
- Use Fish oil: One of the most powerful anti-inflammatories is fish oil. It works inside your body to keep inflammatory proteins low.
- Take Curcumin: This extract from turmeric is great at helping the body control inflammation. Unless you get a ton of turmeric in your food, you should think about supplementing.
Health and Happiness,
Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Ed. Note: Please send your feedback: feedback@livingwelldaily.com – and click here to like us on Facebook.
Written By Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Nearly 25 years ago, failed mainstream medical treatments left Dr. Olson in constant pain – and his health in ruins. And that’s when he did something REVOLUTIONARY. He began his career in medicine – and dedicated his life to uncovering the true, underlying causes of disease.
Through his innovative medical practices in Tennessee and Colorado, Dr. Olson has helped cure countless seniors from across America of arthritis… heart disease… diabetes… and even cancer. All without risky prescription drugs or painful surgeries.
View More Free Articles
The Sunshine Vitamin's Surprising Heart Benefits Revealed
Most folks know that vitamin D is vital for bone health. And if you’re a regular Living Well Daily reader, you also know how critical it is for overall health. But now, incredibly, a new study has revealed something that could change how we think about the “sunshine vitamin” forever. Researchers uncovered evidence that this...
Discover How Gut Bugs Shape Your Brain Health
We’ve all experienced an intuitive “gut feeling” before. But what if I told you your gut is doing FAR more than just sending you hunches? A new study has uncovered a fascinating link between the bacteria in your digestive system and your brain health. It might just change everything we thought we knew about preventing...
Build a Stronger Immune System at Any Age
As we age our immune systems need a little extra TLC to keep us healthy and strong. But don’t worry, boosting your immunity doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. In fact, some of the best immune-boosting strategies are simple habits you can incorporate into your daily routine. So, let’s dive into some tried-and-true tips...
Natural Solutions to Snoring
Regardless of whether you’re the snorer or the unfortunate bedmate, snoring is a source of stress for countless couples. The endless, rhythmic, sawing sounds can disrupt the rest of even the deepest sleepers. But before you resort to earplugs or separate bedrooms, let’s explore some natural ways to tackle snoring. Snoring isn’t just annoying. It...
Shedding New Light on Depression with this “Sunlight” Hack
You’ve likely heard of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). This form of the blues hits as the leaves fall and the days grow shorter. Well, new research reveals that the same therapy that helps many folks battling SAD feel better could be a ray of hope for those fighting other types of depression, too. Here’s what...
Mailbag: Reverse Atherosclerosis Naturally? Science Says Yes—Here's How
“What actually reverses heart clogging?” -Heartfelt Hi Heartfelt, I have good news. We used to think reversing arterial plaque buildup or “heart clogging” was impossible, but now we know better. When my own patients ask me about atherosclerosis (the medical term for clogged arteries), I explain that—while complete reversal can be challenging—research confirms that specific...
Study Pinpoints Foods That Send Disease Risk Soaring
We’ve all heard that old saying, “You are what you eat.” Well, it’s been around for so long because it’s true. And it turns out your dinner plate could secretly stoke the fires of disease in your body. A new study revealed a shocking truth about the American diet. This time it’s not about calories...
Feast Without Fear of Packing on the Pounds
With all the festive feasts and indulgent treats this holiday season, many of us are already bracing for the inevitable battle of the bulge. But is holiday weight gain really as unavoidable as we think? Let’s unwrap the truth behind this seasonal struggle (pun intended). And I’ll share some simple strategies to keep those extra...
PLAY Your Way to Better Brain Health!?
Are you convinced video games are just for kids? Well, think again! A remarkable new study suggests that playing the RIGHT kinds of games could help turn back the clock on your brain, improving cognitive performance, memory, and more. The best part? You probably already have everything you need to get started—right in your pocket…...
'Tis the Season for A Tumultuous Tummy?
The holiday season is in full swing! And you know what that means… lots of festive food, drinks, and—indigestion. But you don’t have to let a bubbly gut crash YOUR Christmas party. I’ll share some simple hacks to help you keep the festivities going… The holidays are brimming with celebrations and plenty of rich food...