In honor of American Heart Month in February, we’ve invited cardiologist Steve Smalley, MD to provide a comprehensive overview of invaluable information about how to determine the risks and prevent heart disease. He also discusses the symptoms of a heart attack, which are often different for women, and what to do immediately after someone has one. Some of the most significant risk factors are family history, smoking, poor diet, inactivity, high blood pressure and high cholesterol levels. For a healthy meal plan, Dr. Smalley recommends the DASH diet as the best overall diet, especially for lowering blood pressure. The concept of “broken heart” syndrome is also explained, including how it is caused by stress and grief. He emphasizes the importance of incorporating stress reduction techniques including the programs and classes offered at Well Within.

For Twin Cities listeners, Dr. Smalley will be discussing the value of moderate amounts of dark chocolate and red wine at a special Well Within event in Lake Elmo on February 16, from 6:30-8:30pm:, Protect Your Heart with Wine and Chocolate

Listen: Steve Smalley