AIM Products and Cardiovascular Health

The Cardiovascular System

The cardiovascular system transports oxygen, nutrients, hormones and cellular waste and is comprised of the heart, blood and veins.  The term cardiovascular disease refers to a series of illnesses that can affect this system. Many health problems related to the cardiovascular system have been dubbed “lifestyle diseases” because they stem from bad habits such as a poor diet, a lack of exercise and other lifestyle choices.   Part of the problem starts when plaque begins to build up on the arterial walls. This is known as atherosclerosis.  From there, high blood pressure, stroke, heart attack and other conditions or illnesses can develop.  With proper nutrition and positive changes, a person should be able to correct these problems.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

The body is unable to make omega-3 fatty acids, and they have to be obtained through food sources.  They are readily available through plant sources such as nuts and seeds. Recent research has suggested that plant-sourced omega-3 fatty acids are just as effective for promoting heart health as those from fish.

Studies indicate that omega-3 fatty acids can

• Lower risk of arrhythmia
• Lower triglyceride levels
• Lower growth rate of plaque
• Decrease blood pressure
• Prevent inflammation or blood clots

Related Product: AIMega

Dietary Nitrate

Dietary nitrate found in leafy green vegetables, rhubarb and beets has been shown to promote the production of nitric oxide, a vasodilator that widens blood vessels. Multiple studies have shown that drinking beet juice regularly can lower blood pressure.  A recent study showed an 8/4 mmHg reduction in blood pressure, a 20% improvement in blood vessel dilation and a 10% reduction in arterial stiffness. Long-term beet juice consumption was shown to have positive effects on blood pressure, lasting for two weeks after cessation.

Related Products: Red Rush, RediBeets

Fiber

Many of fiber’s benefits will be covered in a Digestion Post, but fiber is also known for heart health.

Research suggests that fiber:

• Lowers cholesterol levels
• Lowers blood sugar levels in diabetics
• May help lower blood pressure
• Reduces the risk of heart disease and diabetes
• And helps with weight management

Bear Paw Garlic

A unique wild garlic leaf supplement  that helps lower cholesterol and maintain healthy cardiovascular and blood pressure levels. Traditionally used to treat symptoms of upper respiratory tract infections.

Current opinion states that the y-glutamyl peptides and ajoene result in an increase in the difference across the membrane of the vascular smooth muscle. This, in turn, results in a widening of blood vessels, which maintains healthy blood pressure. Adenosine helps increase blood vessel width and can also reduce platelet aggregation (blood stickiness).

Related Product: Bear Paw Garlic

CoQ10

CoQ10 is found in every human cell, helps the body convert food into energy and is a powerful antioxidant.  It also provides benefits for the cardiovascular system.  According to studies, COQ10 may play a role in lower cholesterol levels due to the fact that people with high cholesterol tend to have lower levels of CoQ10. Additionally, CoQ10 may improve endothelial function and one study found that long-term use showed significant improvements in blood pressure.

Related Product: CellSparc 360