Supplements and Dietary Interventions on CVD

A meta-analysis of recent randomized controlled trials and systematic reviews concluded that reduced salt intake, omega-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid (LC-PUFA) use, and folate supplementation could reduce risk for some cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Combined calcium plus vitamin D might increase risk for stroke. The analysis selected 9 systematic reviews and […]


Low LDL-C Linked to Hemorrhagic Stroke

A prospective Chinese cohort study suggested a significant association between lower low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and higher risk of intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) when LDL-C was <70 mg/dL. The study included 96,043 participants (mean age 51.3 years) who were free of stroke, myocardial infarction, and cancer at baseline (2006). There were […]


Changes in Red Meat Consumption Linked to Mortality

Two prospective cohort studies in the US concluded that increases in red meat consumption, especially processed meat, were associated with a higher risk of death; decreases in red meat consumption and simultaneous increases in healthy alternative food choices over time were associated with a lower mortality risk. The studies included […]


White Coat Hypertension Risky

A systematic review and meta-analysis suggested that untreated white coat hypertension (WCH, isolated elevated office blood pressure [BP]), but not treated white coat effect (WCE, treated WCH), is associated with an increased risk for cardiovascular events and all-cause mortality. The analysis included 27 observational studies, comprising 25 786 participants with untreated […]


Sleep Irregularity Linked to Metabolic Abnormalities

A US cross-sectional and prospective analysis suggested that increased variability in sleep duration and timing was associated with higher prevalence and incidence of metabolic abnormalities even after considering sleep duration and other lifestyle factors. Participants completed 7-day actigraphy from 2010 to 2013 and were prospectively followed throughout 2016 to 2017. […]


Anger/Stress Triggered AF Risk Lower with β-Blockers

A prospective, controlled, electronic diary–based US study suggests that anger or stress can trigger atrial fibrillation (AF), but use of β-blockers is associated with greatly attenuated risk. The study included 91 patients (mean age 59) with a history of paroxysmal or persistent AF recorded their rhythm on event monitors at […]