Many Americans continue to suffer from heart attacks and strokes despite receiving a clean bill of health from their doctors. Michael Smith, M.D., host of “Healthy Talk” on www.RadioMD.com spoke with Dr. Kira Schmid, a naturopathic doctor and Scientific Director for Life Extension about the topic. Dr. Schmid contends that risk factors are often being ignored by many physicians.

“When people hear that their blood pressure is 140/90, they assume that they have a limited risk for cardiovascular disease, but the optimal target should be 115/75. It is highly advised that people have a blood pressure measuring device at home and keep a diary so that they can track their risk of cardiovascular disease,” according to Dr. Schmid, who has updated the fifth edition of the Life Extension Disease Prevention and Treatment book, containing 130 evidence-based protocols to combat the diseases of aging.

She recommends that even something as simple as adding magnesium or grape seed extract to the diet can help control high blood pressure, combined with a change in diet and exercise.

“Another important health resource is Vitamin K2, which strengthens bones without creating calcium deposits in the arteries. Look for bottles that read MK7 and make sure you select K2 sources,” says Dr. Schmid, who also recommends doses of Vitamin D which can build calcium in the bones.

Despite fears about the role of cholesterol in contributing to cardiovascular disease, Dr. Schmid notes that cholesterol has some positive benefits in hormone development, but levels must be monitored.

The entire 10-minute audio segment is available online by visiting here.

– Submitted by David Brimm