A Women's Risk of High Blood Pressure

Besides reducing the risk of having a baby born with spina bifida, new research suggests women who increase their intake of folic acid can reduce their risk of high blood pressure.

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The results of two studies presented at a hypertension conference of the American Heart Association examined the health consequences of over 150,000 female nurses. When originally enrolled in the 8-year study, none of the women had high blood pressure.

As in many studies, the women first completed detailed questionnaires about their health habits, physical activity levels and diet (including folic acid intake). Their blood pressure was recorded every 2 years.

Bottom line? Those who consumed 800 micrograms of folic acid per day (or more) had a significantly lower risk of hypertension.

How can you be sure that you get enough folic acid?

While folic acid supplements can be helpful, several foods are known to be high in folate, including citrus fruits, asparagus, brussel sprouts, spinach, baked beans, brown rice, chickpeas, kidney beans and lentils. Items rarely featured at your local fast food establishment or the frozen food aisle at your supermarket!

Dr. Karen  Asks some important questions of interest to Burlington residents - Chiropractor Burlington Dr. Karen Asks...

Would you rather feel good or be healthy?
Ask most people in Burlington and they want to feel good. Careful! Would you take medicine that makes you feel good, rather than vomit to expel improperly prepared food? Every chiropractic patient knows that you can't measure your health by how you feel. True health is when your body works as it should.
What's your plan to deal with drug-resistant 'super germs'?
Chiropractors have always been concerned with the indiscriminate use of antibiotics, accelerating the mutation of microbes that make "wonder" drugs increasingly ineffective. My strategy? Do everything possible to bolster my immune system through proper diet, rest, exercise, clean air, pure water and an optimally functioning nervous system with regular chiropractic care.