HEART & CIRCULATION
The circulatory system is essential to keeping your body functioning. The heart is the key organ in the circulatory system. Every day, about 5 liters of blood in the human body travel many times through about 96,560 kilometers of blood vessels that link the cells of our organs and body parts.
The circulatory system works closely with other systems in our bodies. With each heartbeat, blood is sent throughout our bodies carrying oxygen, hormones and nutrients to every cell. The circulatory system also carries waste and carbon dioxide out of the body.
Any interruptions, blockage, or diseases that affect how the heart or blood vessels pump blood can cause complications such as heart disease.
Some risk factors that increase the risk for circulatory system diseases include lack of exercise, obesity, smoking, overuse of alcohol, high stress and poor diet.
CHOLESTEROL & TRIGLYCERIDE
The two major forms of cholesterol found in the body are low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL). LDL is known as “bad cholesterol.” It is made by the body and absorbed from cholesterol-rich foods such as meat and diary products. LDL can combine with other fats and substances in the blood, creating blockages in arteries. HDL is known as “good cholesterol.” It has a protective effect on the heart. It transports harmful cholesterol out of your arteries.
A triglyceride is a type of fat obtained mostly from the food you eat. Some triglycerides are necessary for certain cell functions, but a high level is unhealthy. A high triglyceride level is linked to higher risk of coronary artery disease.
BLOOD PRESSURE
Blood pressure is a measure of the force that your heart uses to pump blood around your body.
An ideal blood pressure is considered to be around 120/80 mmHg. The first number shows your systolic blood pressure; the second is diastolic blood pressure.
Over time, high blood pressure can damage the heart, arteries, and other body organs.
VEIN HEALTH: CIRCULATION
The human body has about 60,000 miles of vasculature: arteries, veins and capillaries. Veins carry blood back to the heart. Any disturbances in performing their function typically cause serious health problems.
Most common problems met are in the legs, when valves in the blood vessels may not close properly, therefore allowing blood to collect.
Over time this can lead to varicose veins: enlarged, twisting veins that sometimes bulge out from the leg.
It is important to stay active, stay hydrated and eat healthy food in order to keep your veins healthy.
ANAEMIA
Iron deficiency anaemia is a condition in which the blood lacks adequate red blood cells. Red blood cells carry oxygen to the body’s tissues. Iron deficiency develops due to insufficient iron. Without enough iron, your body can’t produce enough hemoglobin, the substance in red blood cells that carries oxygen.
Iron deficiency is also common among pregnant women: Over 20% of pregnant women in Europe have anaemia during their pregnancy period.
Common signs and symptoms of anaemia include consistent fatigue, pale skin, feeling short of breath, dry and damaged hair and skin, and frequent headaches.
ELECTROLYTE REGULATION
Electrolytes are minerals in your body that have an electric charge. They are found in your blood, urine, tissues, and other body fluids. Electrolytes are important for your body because they balance the amount of water, move nutrients into your cells, move wastes out of your cells and make sure that your nerves, muscles, heart and brain work properly.
Electrolytes include sodium, calcium, potassium, chloride, phosphate, and magnesium.
