Heart Disease and Its Connection with Our Immune System

Heart disease affects approximately 13.2 million Americans every year.  It is the single greatest cause of death in the United States. About one half of all heart attacks occur in people with low cholesterol levels.    Scientists have found a direct link between our immune system and the health of our heart.  They have found that a cronic immune response can damage our  heart.  In response we need to take an active role in keeping our immune system in good shape. Here are five tips to help us to  accomplish our goals.

Tip number one is keeping our teeth and gums healthy.  Cavities, gingivitis, and missing teeth are strong predictors of cardiovascular problems.  Doctors theorize that bacteria from our mouth can enter the blood stream and cause problems through out our bodies including our heart.  Good oral hygene should be a regular part of a healthy routine. 

The next suggestion is one we have heard before and we will hear again, QUIT SMOKING !  Smoking causes inflammation of the inner lining of the arteries.  This causes damage that  never has a chance to heal.  This causes plaque build up and eventually can cause a heart attack. 

The next suggestion is to loose the belly fat.  This can be very difficult, however fat in the abdominal area secrets harmful protiens into the bloodstream.  So it is important to exercise, perhaps  walking every day, to help keep our belly under  control.