Heart

Government Agencies The U.S. Department of Health & Human Services has a branch called the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute.  This department provides information to both the public and health professionals on diseases and research affecting the heart, lung, and blood. To search for information on bypass surgery, click the NHLBI link above, and … Read more

Peripheral Arterial Disease, or PAD, refers to plaque buildup in the blood vessels that carry blood away from your heart, especially to the legs.  Plaque is composed of fat, cholesterol, and other substances. Peripheral Artery Disease is caused by arteriosclerosis or atherosclerosis, which refers to the hardening of arteries from plaque buildup.  Plaque may result … Read more

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a result of plaque buildup in the arteries supplying blood to the heart.  The buildup begins when a part of the artery is damaged, and a plaque forms to heal the site. Then, excess triglycerides and cholesterol attach to the plaque and form a blockage. Coronary artery disease is the … Read more

Triglycerides are a type of fat (lipid) obtained from the diet or produced by the liver, and are a source of energy.  Whenever you eat, your body puts some calories into the bloodstream to use for energy immediately.  The excess calories are converted into triglycerides by the liver, and then travel to be stored as … Read more

According to the American Heart Association, physical activity increases HDL levels (the “good” cholesterol) in some people.  A high HDL cholesterol level reduces risk for heart disease.  “Physical inactivity is a major risk factor for disease.” Age, sex, race, and genetics all play a role in a person’s metabolism.  The amount of exercise required varies … Read more