Question: I had quadruple bypass surgery five years ago, and have had two stents placed since. Is there another way to stay healthy? I’m 77 years old and there is a history of heart disease in my family.
Dr. Hibberd's Answer:
Quadruple bypass with stents tells me you have advanced coronary artery disease. Even with a family history, you have risk factors that may be correctable. Here are some tips:
1. Stop smoking and be sure alcohol consumption is in moderation. Do not drink more than two glasses of wine (preferably red) daily, and avoid hard liquor.
2. Control LDL to under 80 with medications by prescription.
3. Increase HDL under your doctor's direction,
4. Control any elevated blood pressure or blood sugar conditions,
5. Consider omega-3 fatty acid supplementation or using Lovaza to reduce risks further,
6. Exercise regularly as permitted by your cardiologist, and consider a cardiac rehab program if advised,
7. Eat a diet low in fat and high in fiber, and avoid excessive supplements. I like the Mediterranean and South Beach diets if you want to follow a popular diet.
8. Achieve an ideal body weight and BMI of under 23 (18 or less is even better).
9. Be sure to have regular checks to be sure no other body systems, such as the thyroid, need correction.
Now, that is a good start. Let me know how you do over the next two to three months.