Providence Hospitals Blog

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a type of heart rhythm disorder that occurs when electrical signals fire at irregular times. In addition, AF can interfere with how the heart pumps blood.

Balance is a goal that many people aim for in life, but few really know how to achieve it. When you’re stressed, taking steps to strengthen your personal integrity can provide balance that restores a sense of inner peace and harmony. For many people, caring for their spirit is the missing link in maintaining the mind-body-spirit continuum that’s the basis of a healthy life. These people may have healthy minds and bodies but still feel stressed or uneasy.

When you have congestive heart failure (CHF), taking small steps each day to help manage your condition can make you feel good and stay healthy longer. Incorporate these everyday tips into your daily routine:

You may know that people with diabetes have high levels of blood sugar, or glucose. But there’s another category for people with higher than normal glucose levels who do not yet have diabetes—this is called prediabetes.

Looking for a chocolate treat that is delicious and good for your heart? Certain foods that revolve around cocoa can provide healthy recipes such as the one we have for mocha meringues.

Maintaining a low cholesterol diet does not mean skipping your favorite meals, but rather switching one tasty food for another. A diet that is low in cholesterol, saturated fat, and trans fat helps improve blood cholesterol levels. Here are some smart substitutions:

Is there a connection between your heart health and your dental health? Yes, there is: Gum disease may raise the risk for heart disease and stroke. Many people disregard the seriousness of dental health, but in reality the state of your dental hygiene affects the state of your heart health.

The problem is likely that the bacteria that lurk in your gums, causing an infection. What you see is bleeding and swelling in your gums. But what you do not see is the infection setting off a chain of events in the body that could damage the heart and blood vessels. Gum disease also may make it harder for people with diabetes to keep their blood sugar under control. In addition, gum disease may raise the risk for respiratory infections.

It is important for women to be aware of health differences compared with men. The American Heart Association included new findings to its heart disease prevention guidelines for women. They pointed out small, yet important differences in how heart disease affects women differently from men.

Osteoporosis—a disease that causes thin, easily breakable bones—affects millions of older women. But healthy lifestyle choices throughout a woman’s life can help her store enough bone to fight osteoporosis when she’s older.

Chocolate, normally seen as negative to your health, can lead to heart benefits while indulging your sweet tooth. Research shows that eating chocolate may lower blood pressure and cholesterol, and improve blood flow.  Attaining these healthy objectives relies on moderation and your chocolate selection.