Contrary to popular belief, heart disease is not a man-only affliction. According to Marla Ahlgrimm, women are also at risk of illness and death due to the condition. But, many instances of heart disease may be prevented, and there are a few things women can do to reduce their risk. Ahlgrimm answers a few common questions about this below.
Q: Is it true that a heart-healthy diet is completely void of salt?
Marla Ahlgrimm: In the world we live in, it is almost impossible to avoid salt in some form. However, choose foods that have low sodium content and you may lessen your risk of hypertension and heart disease. You’ll also want to watch the amount of trans fat and sugar that you consume. A good rule of thumb is to avoid any foods that come from a box or that have been cured with salt. Anything with a long shelf life likely contains tons of added sodium. It’s best to stick with fresh foods and season with spices that don’t have extra salt.
Q: How can I manage my other health conditions?
Marla Ahlgrimm: Because other conditions, such as diabetes and kidney disease, may also affect your heart, make sure to discuss your treatment routine with your healthcare provider. You should also talk to your doctor about switching to generic drugs to help you manage the cost associated with keeping your health intact.
Q: If I take aspirin every day, will I still have a heart attack?
Marla Ahlgrimm: A low-dose aspirin regimen has been used for decades to prevent stroke and heart attack. However, this is not for everyone. People who take certain vitamins or engage in some holistic treatments may actually increase the risk of internal bleeding by taking aspirin.
Q: What are the signs of a heart attack?
Marla Ahlgrimm: In addition to the classic chest pain, women may also experience cold sweats, sudden fatigue, lightheadedness, nausea, and pain in the neck, jaw, or stomach.
Marla Ahlgrimm has co-authored two ground-breaking books,