Fat To Skinny
Lean On My Shoulder => Girly Girl Talk => Topic started by: o0OSusieO0o on September 25, 2013, 08:21:09 PM
-
I was told I should be on disability & that having one hand & 1 eye should make me eligible. I know I can't work so I told him okay. Going to apply. My blood pressure was taken twice. It's 164/90. He prescribed low dose diuretics. They weighed me, I'm 135 lbs. I wonder if menopause makes my blood pressure elevate?
-
I couldn't say if menopause causes bp to rise. I have had it most of my life - it a family thing. What surprised me was that he prescribed something straight off. In Australia when your bp is up they usually monitor for a few visits ensuring its not up just because its up from anxiety at going to Drs. If you were going to see him to go on disability I would have thought your bp would have risen from nerves. I personally hate taking meds I don't need and scrutinize the known side effects of anything new. Sometimes Drs just prescribe to cover their own backs. Hoping this doesn't sound negative to you, it's just me. Hopefully the bpt is just a temporary thing.
-
Morgan is right...your BP can rise from many reasons other than that need medical treatment. Mine goes up and down depending on the level of pain I'm feeling and always if I have an infection of some sort. Thankfully living the FTS lifestyle has lowered it enough that I no longer have to take the med. I wish you luck with the process of the disability...it can be a daunting task but don't give up ;) I hope you feel better soon :)
-
I was on diuretics for high blood pressure when I was 207 lbs. After I lost 20 lbs & still on the diuretics, my BP normalized, informed doctor of this today. I wasn't nervous at the doctor at all today. I loved the people there. All was calm at home too. I'm not in pain in my toe today unless it's pressed. It's still swollen though.
From http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=78099] [url]http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=78099 (http://[url)[/url] "There are some studies that suggest that declining estrogen levels may influence the lining of the blood vessels and contribute to increases in blood pressure. Research is currently ongoing that is reviewing the relationship of menopause and blood pressure."
Found this on Mayo Clinic site:
(many websites reported this)
Menopause and high blood pressure: What's the connection?
Is there a connection between menopause and high blood pressure?
Answer
from Sandhya Pruthi, M.D.
Blood pressure generally increases after menopause. Some doctors think this increase suggests that the hormonal changes of menopause may play a role in high blood pressure. Others think an increase in body mass index (BMI) in menopausal women may play a greater role than hormonal changes.
Menopause-related hormonal changes can lead to weight gain and make your blood pressure more reactive to salt in your diet — which, in turn, can lead to higher blood pressure. Some types of hormone therapy (HT) for menopause also may contribute to increases in blood pressure.
To control your blood pressure both before and after menopause, focus on a healthy lifestyle:
Maintain a healthy weight. (okay, I hope I'm at healthy weight)
Eat heart-healthy foods, such as whole grains, fruits and vegetables. (I eat low carb grains, berries & lots of veggies)
Reduce the amount of processed foods and salt in your diet. (I eat very very few processed foods, if any at all)
Exercise on most days of the week. (I admit, this I do not do)
Limit or avoid alcohol. (I drink 2 glasses of wine, about 3-4 days out of the year)
If you smoke, stop. (never smoked)
If necessary, your doctor may prescribe medication to help lower your blood pressure.
-
Susie I am in menopause and I agree with your research. I am also anemic and that causes a raise in blood pressure.I agree with the others about taking meds without more investigation.When you go to the hospital thats how they know you are really in pain(and not just looking for drugs) is elevated blood pressure ;)
-
That's true, pain does elevate blood pressure. If I'm tired it can go up too. Two of my brothers have high blood pressure too. They both are normal weight. They are both on bp meds too.
-
Hi Susie, I hope you resolve your blood pressure issues soon. I feel for you, since health is one of our best assets in life...so hang in there and be positive. ;D ;D ;D ;D
-
Thanks so much Noel!!!!
-
FOUND THIS INFO:
Low-Carb Diet Lowers Blood Pressure
Low-Carbohydrate Diet Better Than weight loss (http://www.fattoskinny.com/) Drug Orlistat at Lowering Blood Pressure With weight loss (http://www.fattoskinny.com/)
By Jennifer Warner
WebMD Health News Reviewed by Louise Chang, MD
Jan. 25, 2010 -- A low-carbohydrate diet may have health benefits that go beyond weight loss (http://www.fattoskinny.com/).
A new study shows that a low-carbohydrate diet was equally good as the weight loss (http://www.fattoskinny.com/) drug orlistat (the active ingredient in Alli and Xenical) at helping overweight and obese people lose weight (http://www.fattoskinny.com/), but people who followed the low-carb diet also experienced a healthy drop in their blood pressure levels.
"I expected the weight loss (http://www.fattoskinny.com/) to be considerable with both therapies but we were surprised to see blood pressure improve so much more with the low-carbohydrate diet than with orlistat," researcher William S. Yancy, Jr., MD, an associate professor of medicine at Duke University Medical Center, says in a news release. "If people have high blood pressure and a weight problem, a low-carbohydrate diet might be a better option than a weight loss (http://www.fattoskinny.com/) medication."
Researchers say studies have already shown that the two weight loss (http://www.fattoskinny.com/) methods are effective at promoting weight loss (http://www.fattoskinny.com/), but it's the first time the health effects of each have been compared head to head.
"It's important to know you can try a diet instead of medication and get the same weight loss (http://www.fattoskinny.com/) results with fewer costs and potentially fewer side effects," Yancy says.
Low-Carb Lowers Blood Pressure
In the study, published in the Archives of Internal Medicine, 146 obese or overweight adults were randomly divided into two groups. Many of the participants also had chronic health problems, such as high blood pressure or diabetes.
The first group was advised to follow a low-carbohydrate, ketogenic diet consisting of less than 20 grams of carbohydrates per day, and the second group received the weight loss (http://www.fattoskinny.com/) drug orlistat three times a day, plus counseling in following a low-fat diet (less than 30% of daily calories from fat) at group meetings over 48 weeks.
The results showed weight loss (http://www.fattoskinny.com/) was similar in the two groups. The low-carb diet group lost an average of 9.5% of their body weight and the orlistat group lost an average of 8.5%. Both weight loss (http://www.fattoskinny.com/) methods were also not significantly different at improving cholesterol and glucose levels.
But when researchers looked at changes in blood pressure, they found nearly half of those who followed the low-carbohydrate group had their blood pressure medication decreased or discontinued during the study, compared to only 21% of those in the orlistat group.
Overall, systolic (the top number in a blood pressure reading) dropped an average of 5.9 points among the low-carb diet group, compared with an increase of 1.5 points in the orlistat group.
Researchers say weight loss (http://www.fattoskinny.com/) itself typically produces a healthy reduction in blood pressure, but it appears that a low-carbohydrate diet has an additional blood pressure-lowering effect that merits further study.
-
This study was published in early 2010.
So why does WebMD tell folks to lose weight (http://www.fattoskinny.com/), watch calories??? :-\
Can't speak for the calories. But I know the missed carbs sure brought mine in line! ;D
Tony
-
True Tony. I wonder if there are any more tests like this done since then?
-
True Tony. I wonder if there are any more tests like this done since then?
An even better question... If there were, would WebMD continue to push the calorie-fat agenda instead of the truth?
I think we know the answer to that. ;)
Tony
-
Yes we know.
;)
It appears that most medical doctors really are not nutrition savvy.
-
Went to Urgent Care Out Patient Center today. A long time cyst on my back shoulder got infected a few days and today pain was radiating throughout my left shoulder. They numbed with lots of needles, then did incision to get all the "bad" stuff out. I'm on Bactrim DS (antibiotic). Was fatigued when I got home, napped 1 hour. When I woke up pain in shoulder gone, now only pain at cyst area. Pain anxiety feeling gone too.
-
Glad you are feeling better.
-
Thank you angelhands :)
-
Yes very glad you are feeling better Susie. Infection can sure cause a lot of havoc on a persons system :-\ It's good that you have a handle on it now ;) ;)
-
Thanks TooSweet, the doc said she's glad I came in when I did.
-
Poor Baby.I am glad you are feeling better.Take it easy ;)
-
Ouch.... saw doc again, they squeezed & pulled, then re-packed & said come back Sunday for another re-packing (and prob squeezing..more ouch), then Monday they plan to numb the area again and remove the cyst.
-
Hi, Susie! :)
I'm happy you're feeling better too! :) :) :)
Your experience reminds me of a cyst I had over my left eye as a young boy.
I remember when the doctor removed it, it smelled so bad, I threw up.
Fortunately, the doctor saw it coming and moved out of the way! :D :D :D
Tony
-
Wasn't funny then, but it sure is now I bet Tony!
Took 3 Ibuprofen and feeling better now.
-
Cooked a chicken in my mother's old Showtime rotisserie. Let it cool, wrapped in foil & threw in the fridge. Put the pumpkin cake in tupperware. Now I need to wake up Mary and then got to lay down, running on 4 hours sleep.
-
... Took 3 Ibuprofen and feeling better now.
:) :) :)
Tony
-
I am glad you are feeling better Susie ;)
-
I feel like a glutton for pain... Was at my brother's 50th birthday party at a Country Club yesterday. My dad kept filling my wine glass & I was busy socializing with my family, did not pay attention. Wow did i feel it when I stood up. My dish came much later than everyone else, I only got 3 bites of steak & had to pack rest up and head home. Anyways, before that, I had to go to ladies room, was feeling woosie, empty stomach & alcohol, thankfully Mary showed me the way, came back and went to sit down and missed my chair. I have never jumped up so fast in such a long time, lol.
I've got some beautiful leftover steak and broccoli to get creative with today!
-
:D It happens
-
True... hahaha
-
Sounds like you had more than your share of wine, Susie! :D;D
Been there, done that!
Tony
-
Yes I did Tony, lol.
Got cyst removed today and they want two more visits. I'm healing well.
-
Good ;)
-
Doctor today said no need for anymore visits or antibiotics! yay!!!!!
He send me home with ointment & bandages. Mary will change them for me.
-
Good to hear!!
-
I am glad you are feeling better ;)
-
Thank you so much anjelhands & umpa !
-
My blood pressure has not gone down since taking diuretics for 3 months. They doubled the dose and added blood pressure meds.
I really don't want to take meds.
Anyone have ideas to lower blood pressure naturally?
-
Hi, Susie! :)
Here are six ways that work:
1. Exercise regularly.
For example, 1 hour daily walks.
2. Reduce your stress.
#1 helps with this. Prayer and meditation are also helpful.
3. Reduce sodium intake.
Many prepackaged foods are high in sodium.
4. Limit alcohol intake.
5. Cut back on caffeine.
Like coffee and black teas.
6. Don't smoke, avoid tobacco products, & second hand smoke.
Tony
-
Thanks Tony!
Here's the scoop-
1. Exercise regularly. I need to do this, my biggest hurdle
For example, 1 hour daily walks.
2. Reduce your stress. I do this
#1 helps with this. Prayer and meditation are also helpful.
3. Reduce sodium intake. Working on this now
Many prepackaged foods are high in sodium.
4. Limit alcohol intake. I don't drink much, just special occasions
5. Cut back on caffeine. I need to switch completely to Yerba Mate tea http://guayaki.com/ (http://guayaki.com/)
Like coffee and black teas.
6. Don't smoke, avoid tobacco products, & second hand smoke. I've never smoked
-
Hi, Susie! :)
A necessary first step for success is identifying obstacles to our goals.
And then, to develop strategies to overcome them.
Recognizing that you're not exercising like you should is a good "first step".
Exercise releases stress-relieving compounds in our bodies that lower blood pressure.
And the more consistently we do it, the longer and more profound the effect.
However, for some, exercising can be boring and tedious when done alone.
Perhaps you should find an "exercise buddy" to take walks (or other exercise) with you... Maybe your daughter. ;)
Think about any other obstacles that may be in your way and what you can do about them.
You CAN do this, Susie!!! :) :) :)
Tony
-
I won't be home for a couple of days but it seems I read somewhere that cinnamon will help with that. I will check when I do get home though
-
HOW DOES CINNAMON REDUCE BLOOD PRESSURE?
Oct 18, 2009 | By Brenda Barron
How Does Cinnamon Reduce Blood Pressure?
DEFINING HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE
High blood pressure or hypertension is a common condition. In fact, in the U.S. about one third of adults have been diagnosed with this disease, which is linked to heart attack, heart disease, stroke, kidney impairment and other conditions. Once diagnosed, high blood pressure is treatable with medications and by modifying your diet. One common measure is reducing your sodium intake. However, cinnamon may also help reduce your blood pressure levels as well.
THE CINNAMON-BLOOD PRESSURE CONNECTION
According to a 2006 study conducted by the Journal of the American College of Nutrition, cinnamon actually helps reduce blood pressure in people with diabetes. (The researchers also noted that cinnamon reduces systolic blood pressure in people without diabetes, too.) Though the reason for this occurring is not clear, it does seem that cinnamon reduces the amount of circulating insulin, which may explain why it's effective for those with diabetes. It was found that a half a teaspoon a day is enough to reduce your blood pressure levels.
ADMINISTERING CINNAMON
You can consume it in a variety of ways, the easiest of which is by simply adding freshly shaved cinnamon to the foods you eat each day. However, you could also take cinnamon supplements in the form of capsules or pills. Be sure it is derived from fresh cinnamon, not the powdered kind commonly sold in the spice section of the grocery store. This kind of cinnamon comes from the Cassia plant and contains Coumarin, which is toxic in large doses. When supplementing with this kind of cinnamon, you may place yourself at a higher risk of kidney or liver damage. To avoid this, buy the stick form of cinnamon, which usually comes from the Ceylon plant. Add a stick to your morning tea or add it to pies.
WARNINGS
Cinnamon is not without its side effects. For some people, suddenly increasing the amount of cinnamon they eat can cause gingivitis, flushing (the sudden rush of blood to the face, causing warmth), gastrointestinal upset and irritated lining of the mouth. Some people should not use cinnamon in any great quantity, especially those using blood thinners like aspirin, since the spice prevents clotting. Likewise, if you are pregnant, cinnamon can cause uterine problems. Additionally, if you have ulcers, do not take cinnamon as a supplement. As always, consult with your doctor before supplementing your diet with cinnamon.
I read the same information on several websites. With all these side effects of Cinnamon, it might be best to take prescription. After researching this online, Looks like I have to take natural measures along with my medication unfortunately.
We don't live in a safe enough neighborhood to walk regularly. There is a Senior center nearby that I can take Yoga lessons. Mary wants to participate in that. I will have to explain her situation to enable her to do Yoga with seniors.
-
My mom use to walk at the mall Susie! Temperature controlled and security ;)
-
My mother & I used to walk at our local mall as well. Our mall is gone.
-
Hi, Susie! :)
You might also look into YMCAs (or YWCAs), Girls Clubs, etc..
Many of them have venues (some with treadmills) that are available.
I understand some of them charge a membership fee for access.
But I can't imagine that most are very pricy.
Tony
-
Never realized cinnamon had so many side effects. They seem to outweigh the benefits.
-
As a herbalist I always remind people that all medicines start from herbs.People think herbs are weak and that is so far from the truth.I dont take any medications at age 49, but I buy herbs by the pound ;)
-
Our YMCA is outrageously overpriced. That's why I'm looking into the Senior Center instead.
Umpa, I'm so you are an herbalist & help us on here.
Morgan, it appears to me that some Cinnamon is okay, just not good in large doses.
I'm exhausted, had our Jobs Daughter semi-annual Installation Ceremony yesterday. So glad to be out of my evening gown, high heels & nylons!
Did some Christmas shopping early this morning for $5 gifts and wrapped them when I got home.
Now I'm bumming around today in loose leggings, over-sized long sleeve t-shirt and slipper Boots.
Filled out invitations for family Christmas Party. I text, email & send postal invites so they have no during this busy time they have reminders.
Arms & legs feel like lead. Now I'm so ready for a nap.
-
Wow, fell asleep at 5 pm last night and slept until 5:45 am today.
Watching my sodium is doing good for me. I ate 2 slices reduced sodium turkey bacon (100 mg sodium per slice) & 20 unsalted peanuts from the shell this morning. Drank 1 cup coffee with 2 tbsp cream & 2 cups yerba mate spiced chai tea.
-
You are doing great Susie ;)
-
Thank you
-
Saw my doctor again today. She is happy about my weight-loss. My diagnosis as obese is no longer in my charts or online.
I still have Essential Hypertension so they recommend the DASH diet. Well, my goal is to come up with a low carb one. Could use input on this.
DASH diet
• Eat 4 to 5 servings of fruit each day. A serving is 1 medium-sized piece of fruit, ½ cup chopped or canned fruit, 1/4 cup dried fruit, or 4 ounces (½ cup) of fruit juice. Choose fruit more often than fruit juice. (I’ll eat Berries)
• Eat 4 to 5 servings of vegetables each day. A serving is 1 cup of lettuce or raw leafy vegetables, ½ cup of chopped or cooked vegetables, or 4 ounces (½ cup) of vegetable juice. Choose vegetables more often than vegetable juice. (I’ll eat greens, peppers & squash)
• Get 2 to 3 servings of low-fat and fat-free dairy each day. A serving is 8 ounces of milk, 1 cup of yogurt, or 1 ½ ounces of cheese. (I’ll eat cheese)
• Eat 6 to 8 servings of grains each day. A serving is 1 slice of bread, 1 ounce of dry cereal, or ½ cup of cooked rice, pasta, or cooked cereal. Try to choose whole-grain products as much as possible. (I’m not sure what to eat for this category)
• Limit lean meat, poultry, and fish to 2 servings each day. A serving is 3 ounces, about the size of a deck of cards. (I eat this much anyways)
• Eat 4 to 5 servings of nuts, seeds, and legumes (cooked dried beans, lentils, and split peas) each week. A serving is 1/3 cup of nuts, 2 tablespoons of seeds, or ½ cup cooked dried beans or peas. (Nuts & seeds, yes, yes, yes… I can eat this!)
• Limit fats and oils to 2 to 3 servings each day. A serving is 1 teaspoon of vegetable oil or 2 tablespoons of salad dressing. (Limit to 3, I’ll probably go over this, oh well)
• Limit sweets and added sugars to 5 servings or less a week. A serving is 1 tablespoon jelly or jam, ½ cup sorbet, or 1 cup of lemonade. (nope will not touch this category)
• Eat less than 2,300 milligrams (mg) of sodium a day. If you have high blood pressure, diabetes, or chronic kidney disease, if you are African-American, or if you are older than age 50, try to limit the amount of sodium you eat to less than 1,500 mg a day. ( I will try my best to follow this)
Oh here is my BMI now!!!
(https://scontent-b-sjc.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/1555355_744463628897788_488194910_n.jpg)
-
Hi, Susie! :)
Your doctor's report had good news!... Hooray for that! ;D ;D ;D
As far as the hypertension, I would say your modifications to the Dash diet look OK.
Just be careful how much fat you remove from your regimen.
While eating lowcarb, if you remove too much fat, your metabolism may go into gluconeogenesis in high gear!
That process metabolizes proteins into blood glucose and can result in weight gain.
Please keep us apprised of how your adjustments to this works for you.
Tony
-
That's good to know, I love my fat, i add butter to my fish & veggies & cook in lots of oil.
-
Hi Susie I just wanted to add ....keep in mind that this diet reference was also based on the dietary guidelines of the pyramid. We all know how that works with most folks. Until the government gets on board with the idea that low fat higher carb diets are what is making us all fat...those suggestions won't change too much from most docs :/ Unless of course they are catching on that sugar is the culprit of most of the damage. Sounds to me like your suggestions for each group recommended is right on target :)
-
Yeah You!!! You are just getting all kinds of good news! ;D
-
Hi Susie - you seem organised. The grains section sounds tricky but maybe an omm. It's full of dietary fibre as you know :D Though wouldn't recommend 6-8 servings of it - that seems rather excessive in itself.
-
LOL, 6-8 servings of grains. i'll skip that & count my almond meal in my OMM towards my nut intake.
-
Broke a tooth, went to dentist. After the check up I had to have deep cleaning & laser disinfectant , 2 crowns. They said my toothbrush doing no good & to use an electric toothbrush instead. I also need to get a water pic. Now have to pay $100 a month for 12 months to pay it off. That's half our monthly food budget. When income tax return comes in I'm stocking up on food.
-
Oh no, susie that sux :'(
I rank dentists on par with used car salesmen. It always costs you more money than you expect.
-
True, and when it rains it pours, got my cholesterol blood test results back:
(http://photos-ak.sparkpeople.com/nw/1/1/l1120097071.jpg)
Now I have no idea what to eat to lower my cholesterol. I'm afraid I won't b able to afford it. Unfortunately, medication is cheaper than natural resources.
-
OMG, Susie!!! :o :o :o
There must be something wrong in your body!
From what I've seen, what you eat has not been the problem.
I hope your doc gets to the bottom of this soon!
I will keep you in my prayers.
Tony
-
Thank you Tony, I'm deeply in despair right now, can't stop the tears at times. Feeling so failed in trying my best to get healthy. There's not a thing high carb in my kitchen.
-
I really hope you don't become discourage by this although it's very disconcerting to you I know :-(
We're with you. Be strong Susie
-
Susie alot of high cholesterol issues come from gene pool.Speak to your relatives see what their numbers are. ;)
-
I'm the thinnest member in my family, will ask them anyways. My brother's fiance is 300 lbs and has low cholesterol & blood pressure. It must be a high percentage of genes. I've read that menopause spikes up cholesterol. I can still eat like I do, no need to watch fat, watching fat intake is only to lose weight (http://www.fattoskinny.com/) to lower cholesterol. I'll use zero cholesterol fats, lots if it.
I ate cucumber slices & Ranch dressing last night, watched sodium & cholesterol. yummm
-
Went to medical center for my Vitals Today-
Blood Pressure:
125/73
Pulse: 86
-
Went to medical center for my Vitals Today-
Blood Pressure:
125/73
Pulse: 86
Hi, Susie! :)
Your vitals look good.
Tony
-
My blood pressure meds are working. i take a very low dose.
Doctor wants me to make an appointment now to discuss my cholesterol levels.
What I want to know is why my cholesterol & blood pressure is worse after I lost weight. Going to ask her.
-
keep us informed ;)
-
i will, contacting my doctor tomorrow, for an appointment.
-
I saw online that there are large LDL globules that do not enter the blood stream and there are small ones that do. I wonder if mine are all big. My triglycerides went down & HDL went up.
http://www.thecholesteroltruth.com/how-not-all-ldl-cholesterol-is-bad-for-your-h/ (http://www.thecholesteroltruth.com/how-not-all-ldl-cholesterol-is-bad-for-your-h/)
(http://userimages-akm.imvu.com/userdata/12/10/52/18/userpics/Snap_6Ugh5STJ801711958956.jpg)
I emailed my doctor to order me a LDL particle test.
-
I dont have any knowledge to advise you on this one, keep me informed though ;)
-
Hi, Susie! :)
There is a long-held view held by many doctors is that elevated cholesterol can cause serious health problems.
This is because, in some patients, cholesterol tends to build up on artery walls, hardens and becomes plaque,
and that plaque slows and blocks blood flow. But, if cholesterol did not "stick", it would not be a problem.
Remember, our brains are comprised of 40% to 60% cholesterol.
More and more doctors are coming to realize that the reason why cholesterol "sticks" to artery walls is due to arterial inflammation. And that the inflammation is caused by sustained, elevated blood glucose levels.
We know what causes that... Eating too many net carbs.
And reducing serum cholesterol thru statin drugs will slow the build up.
Sadly, those statins have serious side effects involving normal brain function.
See: http://www.sott.net/article/242516-Heart-Surgeon-Speaks-Out-On-What-Really-Causes-Heart-Disease (http://www.sott.net/article/242516-Heart-Surgeon-Speaks-Out-On-What-Really-Causes-Heart-Disease)
I say all this in order to help you find some peace.
However, your elevated cholesterol must be caused by something. Even if it's simply genetics.
Keeping an eye on cholesterol, and your health in general, is a good idea for everyone.
So unless you are experiencing problems related to arterial blockage, I wouldn't get too alarmed.
That being said, please continue to have your doctor monitor your cholesterol AND general health.
As long as your healthy, don't allow yourself to worry.
Tony
-
Thank you Tony, I also heard that there was a study on people over 50 that had high cholesterol. They found a high majority of people that lived longer with high cholesterol.
-
Got my blood pressure taken again today at the medical center. Here is what they sent me:
When:
Monday March 03, 2014 8:40 AM
Blood Pressure:
139/77
Pulse:
78
Patient instructions
Congratulations, you have met your blood pressure target. It is very important that you maintain your target blood pressure of 139/89 or less. If you have diabetes, heart failure, or kidney disease your target blood pressure is 129/79 or less. Keeping your blood pressure at or below target levels will decrease your risk of heart attack, stroke, kidney failure and other serious complications.
These important steps will help keep your blood pressure at target:
1. Take your medication as prescribed every day unless you are told to change or stop by a health care professional.
2. Reduce fat and salt in your diet and eat more fruit and vegetables.
3. Take a brisk walk (or bike, swim, etc.) for 30 minutes or more five or more days a week.
4. If you smoke – Stop. Call the Kaiser Permanente Smoker’s Helpline at 888-883-7867 for more information.
-
139/89 as an ok bp would never be acceptable in our practice at the hospital. that is hypertensive and would be treated to a lower number
-
My BP will go down when I get more fit, so I'm not worried. As for inflammation, & waist size, I'm good. I'm 38-29-38 now so I feel I'm okay.
-
Stef you confused me???
-
The Bp they stated as norm of 138/89 as normal is not really normal . It's high and borderline hypertensive . We would treat our patients with meds to lower that .
-
Maybe if they took my BP 3 times it might be that. Next time I get it done I'll make sure that I don't drink any coffee, LOL.
-
Maybe if they took my BP 3 times it might be that. Next time I get it done I'll make sure that I don't drink any coffee, LOL.
I love my coffee (in moderation)! ;D ;D ;D
But I learned something about it at my last doctor visit...
Coffee can also bump up blood glucose levels.
This can skew fasting glucose tests.
Tony
-
Well good thing I didn't drink any coffee before my glucose test ;D
-
I was on diuretics for high blood pressure when I was 207 lbs. After I lost 20 lbs & still on the diuretics, my BP normalized
What I want to know is why my cholesterol & blood pressure is worse after I lost weight.
I eat low carb grains, berries & lots of veggies
Doctors blame almost everything on being overweight, including diabetes, high blood pressure and cholesterol, but you have just proved them wrong. There are morbidly obese people who have none of these things and some skinny people who have all of them.
This is why I believe your BP is higher after losing weight... when you started eating low carb, your BP went down, then when you got to your goal weight and added more carbs back into your diet, your BP went back up again, and your cholesterol as well.
Tony is spot on when he said this:
More and more doctors are coming to realize that the reason why cholesterol "sticks" to artery walls is due to arterial inflammation. And that the inflammation is caused by sustained, elevated blood glucose levels.
We know what causes that... Eating too many net carbs.
Several years ago DH had a blockage and had angioplasty, so his cholesterol was very high for many years. 3 yrs. ago we were both diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. We immediately started eating low carb, high fat (and I do mean high fat... lots of eggs, butter on everything, fat bombs, etc) His cholesterol kept going down and down. It didn't happen overnight, but it is now in normal range. Both of our lipid panels are very good. He also had high blood pressure before we started the lc/hf way of eating, and that is now normal.
-
Hi, Shoelace! :)
When we think about the history of medical science, many treatment discoveries come after
spending years treating only symptoms.
There is a reason for this... symptom treatment makes BIG money for big pharma!
Thus, we are being bombarded with ads for Crestor, Lipitor, etc..
These products make the sellers money. But don't bring health to the patients.
And when you consider that many large pharmaceutical companies give money to
medical schools, research facilities, etc., those entities will tend to promote treatment via prescriptions.
And to make matters worse, there is also HUGE money in the food industries that sell high-carb poisons (especially to kids).
There is no money in telling people not to do (or limit) something.
That's why it's such an uphill battle for us to spread the word.
Thank God for doctors that REALLY do care about their patients' health enough to be open to the truth!
More and more of them are accepting the truth about cholesterol and elevated glucose levels.
Tony
-
I have doctor appointment next week. I am so sure that my LDLs are only large particles that do not enter the blood stream. My HDLs are really good and triglycerides really low. I search online about this & found that there is a high percentage of people who lived longer with my type of cholesterol! I'm now more active, exercising daily. I am building abdomen, thigh & calve muscles while strengthening my hips, knees, ankles and core balance. I plan to start roller skating again in a couple weeks. It's been a year since I've been roller skating.
By the way, my cholesterol was lower when I ate more carbs, now higher after a year of 20 carbs a day. I know my low carb diet is an anti-inflammatory one and so good for me!!!!
-
There is no money in telling people not to do (or limit) something.
That's why it's such an uphill battle for us to spread the word.
Amen to every word you said in your post above, Tony. Besides all that, people have been so indoctrinated that low fat, higher carb is the way to go, that makes it all the more difficult to convince them otherwise, "Well, my doctor said I need to eat more carbs and cut down on fat." What the patients don't realize is that doctors and dieticians only know what they have been taught, and they have been taught to follow diet guidelines set down by government agencies like (here in the states) the ADA. So most doctors/dieticians believe they are giving sound advice when they are actually giving the worst advice possible.
Tony, you might find this of interest, I sure did. The item below is from the U.S. National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health. It is dated March of 2004. I know it is an old article, but just goes to show you how long our governments and government agencies have known that high carb/low fat is killing us. And they knew that long before 2004. I was just glad to see it in black and white by a government agency.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/14998608 (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/14998608)
The diet-heart hypothesis: a critique.
Abstract
The low-fat "diet-heart hypothesis" has been controversial for nearly 100 years. The low-fat-high-carbohydrate diet, promulgated vigorously by the National Cholesterol Education Program, National Institutes of Health, and American Heart Association since the Lipid Research Clinics-Primary Prevention Program in 1984, and earlier by the U.S. Department of Agriculture food pyramid, may well have played an unintended role in the current epidemics of obesity, lipid abnormalities, type II diabetes, and metabolic syndromes. This diet can no longer be defended by appeal to the authority of prestigious medical organizations or by rejecting clinical experience and a growing medical literature suggesting that the much-maligned low-carbohydrate-high-protein diet may have a salutary effect on the epidemics in question.
Suzy, the word diabetes has been used a lot in this thread and you said you had a glucose test, but that still doesn't tell me whether or not you have diabetes. When someone has diabetes, the important thing to know about lipids is as long as your A1c test results keep going down and your HDL keeps going up, the rest usually takes care of itself. But if your A1c does not keep going down......... of course, this is assuming that you have diabetes.
Let us know about the LDL test results, here's hoping they will mostly be large particles (better known as fluffy particles).
-
Shoelace are you in the healthcare profession ? Just wondering you strike me as sassy and educated 😊 I am a critical care nurse in the icu
-
No sassy is a good thing !! Lol
-
Like hip to the "knowledge " of science and healthcare 😊😊😊
-
My family has been ravaged by type 2 diabetes, I'll spare you the gory details. When DH and I were diagnosed, I was determined that if there was a better way, I'd find it so I did a lot of reading on different subjects having to do with diabetes, complications, meds and diet. I am a humble high school grad.
-
Kudos to you !!!! I admire you and your dedication to health . Wish I had more patients like you shoelace 😊
-
Hi, Shoelace! :)
It was nice to see a govt paper admitting the truth!
I'm convinced that they've known about this far longer.
But lobbyists' influence is VERY powerful with govt leaders (who control govt agendas and information outflow).
Thanks for sharing that study abstract with us.
Tony
-
Saw doctor again today. Blood pressure was 136/76. Doctor had me retake my cholesterol screening because it did not make sense to her that my LDLs went up so high after losing weight.
Not so good news, doctor said "If LDL test results are still high, I will have to start low dose statin drug. "
Saw eye doctor today as well. Need stronger glasses again after only 1 year. Also sending me to retina specialist to make sure my retina has not started to detach. I have same floaters for a year plus more. He is taking my sight serious because it's my only eye. I'm so glad.
-
The choice to take statins is yours Susie. I did my bit of research and have decided that if/when the dr suggests it, I have the right of refusal and my choice would be not to take them. Read all you can about them and, like with all things, make an informed decision.
-
My LDLs are crazy, was 292 two weeks ago, now 308. Looks like I need a statin. :(
I just finished some leg & core exercises, now drinking Guayaki Yerba Mate tea, sweetened with Zero Sweet & Stevia.
Will take a shower when I finish my tea. My uncle passed away recently. He was volunteering gardening at a Monk retreat house here in town and had a heart attack. He was 83. He and my aunt had 10 children, now many grandchildren. Funeral mass is in couple hours, so best I get off my computer now.
-
Hi, Susie! :)
I would not take a statin unless my health was in imminent danger without it.
Remember that our brains are 40-60% cholesterol. It's as natural to our bodies as muscle tissue.
Statins are not "smart" enough to know the difference between brain cholesterol and blood cholesterol.
And I believe that greatly elevated blood cholesterol is a symptom of something else.
If you take statins, pay very careful attention to how your mental processes are operating.
Before my doc took me off them, I was having some attention and short term memory issues.
Within a few weeks after stopping statins, those symptoms reversed.
If you take statins and notice problems with attention, memory, etc., let your doc know right away!
I will continue to pray for you, Susie! :)
Tony
-
Yikes Tony, I already have temporary memory problems due to menopause. Doc wants to put me on a very low dose. I take a very low dose blood pressure pills and they help.
As soon as she prescribes it, instead of going straight to pharmacy, I will research the drug online for reviews, side effects, etc. I will most likely receive an email that she prescribed it.
-
I am sorry for your loss :(
-
Thank you Umpa. There were over 400 people there for his funeral. He was a greatly faithful admired man. He always took time for his grandchildren as well.
-
Doctor emailed me to start on low dose statins. I have not replied, I am hesitating because I'm so scared to start on them.
This pdf file has good natural ideas to improve cholesterol.
http://images.agora-health.co.uk/PDF_reports/Agora-Health-cholesterol-report.pdf (http://images.agora-health.co.uk/PDF_reports/Agora-Health-cholesterol-report.pdf)
-
Interesting article Susie. Fts is the way to go obviously. It made my head hurt with the various suggestions for supplements. They could have just listed the appropriate cocktail of pills and made life easier. Originally I would say our bodies were made to pretty much self heal. We screwed up badly somewhere and broke them from the original design. :(
-
I agree Morgan. I'm just glad my daughter Mary age 14, is starting her life correctly with low carb & exercise. Even my older daughter age 34, who is thin & muscular, is losing her fear of fat & reducing her carbs to be healthier.
-
Hi Susie, I suggest you follow the docs instructions and start the low dose statin. Statins are controversial on both ends but the reported negative side effects of some statins on some people come from longer term use. After 60 days of being on the drug you can certainly have your blood test again and discuss the issues with your doctor.
-
Thanks Doug. I'll be on Lipitor 20 mg
-
Did a lot of research on Lipidor.
I'm going to supplement to counter-act all the side effects it will reduce my metabolism, so will take raspberry keytone supplements to help.
Also, it affects your memory, similar to how Alzheimer's does, so I'm planning to take ginkgo biloba to increase blood flow to my brain. Will keep eating healthy fats and nuts as well.
It depletes liver's ability to produce Co Enzyme Q10 too. I am going to take those supplements too.
I really don't want any side effects. I have so much to do this spring and summer.
Taking Mary to a Comic-Con convention (Wonder-Con 4/19) in Anaheim for her birthday (April 23). Before that I have to cook a weekend of ketogenic meals meals & freeze them for Mary & I for when we go to Jobs Daughters Leadership camp (4/11-13). I will cook meals similar to what's on the camp menu.
Will be helping the bethel make enchiladas (April 24-25). Picnic pot luck (4/27) and jobs meetings, roller skating with Mary and just keeping my house up.
I will do all I can to keep medications from holding me back.
-
You two are so great together looking after each other. Susie I would discuss the side effects with Mary. That way she can be on the look out for any problems. She'll be on the outside and can observe any vagueness /memory loss that you don't realise. Tell her what to do if she does (like contact your older daughter or dr). I'm sure all will go well but a plan is always good.
-
Thanks Morgan, Mary already keeps a close eye on me. When I look tired she advises me to lay down. She does not want me to take Lipitor, so I know she'll keep a good eye on me. She knows know the side effects to look for.
-
Thanks Morgan, Mary already keeps a close eye on me. When I look tired she advises me to lay down. She does not want me to take Lipitor, so I know she'll keep a good eye on me. She knows know the side effects to look for.
Hi, Susie! :)
When my doctor had me on statins, I was taking 5mg Crestor per day.
He told me that was the lowest dose available.
After taking it for a number of years, the mental effects became more & more obvious.
It's good Mary will be watching you.
Let her know the side effects come on very slowly.
And you will probably notice them before Mary does.
Tony
-
She looked them up online. There are different side effects for women over 50. I hope my supplements work for me.
-
Good job ;)
-
Emailed my doctor! She's so nice!
----- Message -----
From: OWENS,SUSAN C
My friends keep sending me links about the dangers of stains for women. Here is one that concerns me. I have stopped menses October 2012.
My concern, "Statins Don’t Work to Prevent First Heart Attacks"
http://drhyman.com/blog/2012/01/19/why-women-should-stop-their-cholesterol-lowering-medication/ (http://drhyman.com/blog/2012/01/19/why-women-should-stop-their-cholesterol-lowering-medication/)
----- Message -----
From: DORCAS CHOO-BING ANG MD
Statins are safe for women. There are a lot of skewed/ not true studies out there. KP is very up on the latest recommendations/ guidelines/ warnings. If it were so, we would have pulled the statins off all female pts. I would like you to take it. So far, none of my patients has ended up in the hospital with statins. I will review this article and get back with you.
----- Message -----
From: OWENS,SUSAN C
Thank you. Is my prescription ready for me to pick it up yet?
----- Message -----
From: DORCAS CHOO-BING ANG MD
Read the article. Makes sense. But your blood sugar has always been good. I have not seen any diabetes that is induced by statin in my patients. So far, not yet. How about cutting the lipitor in 1/2 and take it daily.
----- Message -----
From: OWENS,SUSAN C
Sent: 3/26/2014 5:00 PM PDT
okay will do
----- Message -----
From: DORCAS CHOO-BING ANG MD
Great. We will take this 1 step at a time. If at any time your blood sugar goes up or you have side effects, let me know. We can always stop it.
-
I like her ;)
-
Now she's sounding more like the way she used to be. She's the one, in 2012, who sent me on my way to lose the weight, saying eat low sugar, low carb... and that's just what I did. ;)
-
You're blessed to have a doctor with an open mind, Susie! :)
Tony
-
Thanks Tony. Yes I am and I'm so thankful.
-
I read the article Susie posted suggesting different ways to lower cholesterol and was interested in CoQ10. I went to buy some BUT they all had as the active ingredient as 'ubiquinone'. The one that was suggested was 'ubiquinol' (more effective). None of the dozens of products available had this as the active ingredient. Does anyone taking CoQ10 have ubiquinol? What is the brand name? Thanks
-
Hi Morgan ! I found this in my search bc I didn't know what either was . Hope it helps
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a fat-soluble nutrient produced naturally by our bodies. Found in every cell in the body, CoQ10 is concentrated in organs that require the most energy — such as the heart, liver, muscles and kidneys. CoQ10 is concentrated in these organs because it is essential to the process of producing cellular energy.
Ubiquinone vs. Ubiquinol
In the body, CoQ10 exists either in its oxidized form, ubiquinone, or in its reduced form, ubiquinol. When oxidized CoQ10 (ubiquinone) is used by the body, it transforms and becomes ubiquinol. In the same way, reduced CoQ10 (ubiquinol) becomes ubiquinone when it carries out its role in the body.
To better understand how this works, let’s take a look at CoQ10 and cellular energy production. CoQ10 is found inside the powerhouses of the cell called the mitochondria, the site where energy production occurs. It acts as an electron acceptor or donor in the chain of reactions that lead to energy production. When oxidized CoQ10 (ubiquinone) accepts an electron from another molecule in the chain, it becomes reduced (ubiquinol) and when reduced CoQ10 (ubiquinol) donates an electron, it becomes oxidized (ubiquinone). Maintaining this state of equilibrium is how the body benefits from CoQ10.
CoQ10 Supplements
Regardless of what form of CoQ10 you take as a supplement, the body is able to convert the consumed form to the other form as needed. In other words, if you take a reduced CoQ10 supplement (ubiquinol), the body can convert the reduced CoQ10 (ubiquinol) to the oxidized CoQ10 (ubiquinone) and vice versa. This conversion takes place to maintain a state of equilibrium between reduced CoQ10 (ubiquinol) and oxidized CoQ10 (ubiquinone).
The Bottom Line
Unquestionably, both forms—ubiquinone and ubiquinol—are effective and essential to important pathways in the body, and in states of need, either form can be reduced or oxidized to form the other.
Next time you purchase CoQ10 keep the following points in mind:
• Both CoQ10 forms—ubiquinone and ubiquinol—are important, effective and do great things for your body
• The body is extremely intelligent and is capable of turning one form of CoQ10 into the other as needed
• Feel great that you are choosing such a important supplement for your health
- See more at: http://www.naturemade.com/resource-center/articles-and-videos/heart-health/understanding-coq10-ubiquinone-vs-ubiquinol#sthash.0oWW5S7Q.dpuf
-
Thanks for the information Stephanie! You are such an asset here!
-
Thanks Susie!!
-
Thank you so much Steph. That helped clear it up (well a bit anyway - I mean it is 1 in the morning here. Will have to reread in the morning). Wonder why they would recommend one over the other? You'd think it was confusing enough as it was. Thanks again :)
-
Hi, Morgan! :)
I take a 300mg capsule of CoQ10 everyday.
As we get older we, naturally, produce less of it in our bodies.
I buy the Costco (Kirkland) brand with the active ingredient 'ubiquinone'.
It seems to work for very well for me.
I notice that when I forget to take it, I don't have as much endurance and tire out more quickly.
Tony
-
That's great Tony.
-
Saw Retina Eye Specialist today. He took out my artificial eye & told me to leave it out for one week and put in prescription anti-bacterial drops, 4 days a week for 1 week. He also said since I lost weight my eye is sunken in & not longer fits properly. He said that I am due foe a new artificial eye and referred me to a specialist for that.
My retina in my right eye is good, thankfully. My left eye socket has Cellulitis.
(Eye) Health Problems Reviewed
CELLULITIS
RIGHT VITREOUS FLASHES (EYE CONDITION)
AGE RELATED RIGHT CORTICAL CATARACT
R VITREOUS FLOATERS
RIGHT ASTIGMATISM
RIGHT MYOPIA (EYE CONDITION)
PRESBYOPIA (AGE RELATED VISION DIFFICULTY)
-
And you cant get disability????? ???
-
Yes, amazingly ridiculous isn't it?
Fortunately my dad said he will look further into an attorney. He thought that I could get one that you don't pay until case is settled. He found out that they will not take me because I have not worked in over 10 years.
-
It is??? People in florida can get disability for anything!
-
Geez, I'm living in the wrong state
-
California is becoming the "Land of the Lost"!
You're better off on begging welfare than working or being compensated for a true disability.
You're in my prayers, Susie!
Tony
-
Thanks Tony, everyone who knows me in person says that I should be on disability. Some say they know someone on disability that isn't even half as disabled as I am.
-
I can't believe you're not on disability Susie. I don't know how they quantify it in the States or even here. I know so many people on disability who aren't deserving of it, who don't even have a percentage of your issues. Do you get a carer's pension (do you even have that in the States?) for looking after Mary (due to her problems)?
You should be so proud of yourself that you cope as well as you do.
-
There are many lazy people out here who don't deserve it. It is irritating to my dad knowing this. That's why he's trying to help.
-
Having my eye out & going to store did well. Hardly any people looked at me.
Probably because I wore my glasses.
Hmmm, might be a good Halloween photo
(http://userimages-akm.imvu.com/userdata/12/10/52/18/userpics/Snap_YOd2TsfbeN939538954.png)