A study published in Nature Cardiovascular Research has found a link between depression, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes. Researchers now suggest a lower frequency of depressive attacks can lower the risk of coronary artery disease and type 2 diabetes, irrespective of lifestyle risk factors and genetic susceptibility.
Previous studies have shown a link between depression and heart disease, but it has always been unclear whether depression contributes to the development of heart disease or whether it is mainly secondary to the condition.
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This new study included genomes of 328,152 individuals of European ancestry aged between 40 and 69 years old from the UK biobank. This data gave the authors a polygenetic risk score – a specialized tool that can be used to refine risk prediction for heart disease.
The authors of this study concluded that a lower burden of depressed mood is associated with a 34% decreased risk of coronary artery disease. There was also a 33% reduced risk of type 2 diabetes and 20% reduction in atrial fibrillation.
These findings were independent of lifestyle factors known to be associated with mental health and the risk of developing cardiovascular disease, such as exercise, diet, and smoking. Researchers also noted that the associations between depression and coronary artery disease were higher in women than in men.
Although more information is needed to determine the mechanisms behind this association and help identify any implications for using this in preventative therapies, the study helps expand the knowledge of the potential role of depression in the development of cardiovascular disease.
Heart Health and Brain Function
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While some degree of cognitive decline is inevitable as you age, numerous factors can take a toll on the brain and its ability to function at peak potential. When under constant attack from stress and environmental factors, you may suffer from concentration problems and overall cognitive function issues. Many of these conditions have also been associated with depression, so it is essential to give the brain the proper vitamins and nutrients to stay healthy.
The Smart Pill contains nine ingredients that can help to support and maximize brain health in cognitive function, including ginkgo biloba, huperzine A, bacopa extract, rosemary extract, and a B vitamin complex. This unique formula allows The Smart Pill to help boost circulation, fight free radicals, and provide nutritional support to assist in cognitive function.
As proven in this study, for those with depression, keeping the heart strong and healthy is vital for enjoying a high-quality life as you age. Heart Rescue was designed to help support and promote cardiovascular health using various ingredients, including omega-3 fatty acids, CoQ10, magnesium, and hawthorn extract. These heart health superstars can help promote and support cardiovascular function as you age.
Sarah began her interest in nutritional healing at an early age. After going through health problems and becoming frustrated with the conventional ways doctors wanted to treat her illness (which were not working), she took it upon herself to find alternative treatments. This led her to revolutionize her own diet to help her get healthier and tackle her health problems. She began treating her illness by living a more balanced lifestyle through healthy food choices, exercise and other alternative medicine such as meditation. This total positive lifestyle change led her to earn a diploma in Nutritional Therapy from Health Sciences Academy in London, England. Today, Sarah enjoys helping others by teaching healthy lifestyle changes through her personal consultations and with her regular contributions to the Doctors Health Press. Also, passionate about following her dreams in life, Sarah moved to France and lived in Paris for over 5 years where she earned a certification in beadwork and embroidery from Lesage (an atelier owned by Chanel). She then went on to be a familiar face sitting front row and reporting from Paris Fashion Week. Sarah continues to practice some of the cultural ways of life she learned while in Europe. They enjoy their food, and take the time to relax and enjoy many of life’s little moments. These are life lessons she is glad to have brought back home with her.
