December 2023
Unlocking Heart Health: Exploring the Connection Between Hypertension and Fasting
Introduction:
High blood pressure is a common condition that affects the body's arteries. It's also called hypertension. If you have high blood pressure, the force of the blood pushing against the artery walls is consistently too high. The heart has to work harder to pump blood.
Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mm Hg). In general, hypertension is a blood pressure reading of 130/80 millimeters of mercury (mm Hg) or higher. Untreated, high blood pressure increases the risk of heart attack, stroke and other serious health problems. It's important to have your blood pressure checked at least every two years starting at age 18. Some people need more-frequent checks. Healthy lifestyle habits —such as not smoking, exercising regularly and eating minimally processed whole foods— can help prevent and treat high blood pressure. Some people need medicine to treat high blood pressure.
High blood pressure, or hypertension, often stems from the body's inability to metabolize certain compounds, leading to deficiencies and various health issues. Contrary to popular belief, hypertension is not always a genetic inheritance but can be attributed to the body's struggle to break down specific compounds. Recognizing hypertension is crucial, as it often operates as a silent threat, going unnoticed until complications arise. Monitoring and managing blood pressure levels are pivotal for maintaining optimal cardiovascular health.
Beyond the Heart: Understanding Hypertension Holistically:
Hypertension may not solely be a consequence of heart-related problems but can also manifest due to a dysfunctional arterial system. Conventional diagnoses tend to focus exclusively on the heart, overlooking potential issues outside the organ. Insufficient comprehension of deep human physiology can lead to a reliance on medications without addressing possible deficiencies in raw materials crucial for the body. A case in point is Dana White, who was misdiagnosed with idiopathic hypertension and medicated for 15 years, only to discover that his body struggled to break down homocysteine. This emphasizes the need to look beyond the heart, considering factors like genetics and nutritional deficiencies when diagnosing and treating hypertension.
Fasting: A Path to Heart Health:
A fasting approach gaining popularity, especially with advocates like Gary Brecka and Dana White, involves a hybrid fast that prompts a closer examination of its potential benefits and risks. Specifically, a 72-hour fast, abstaining from food for three consecutive days, induces a state of ketosis in the body. Ketosis is a metabolic state where stored fat becomes the primary energy source, shifting from the typical glucose derived from carbohydrates. Exploring the potential benefits of a 72-hour fast reveals several positive outcomes for heart health.
Weight Loss: Ketosis enhances the body's efficiency in burning stored fat for energy, contributing to weight loss. Additionally, the overall reduction in calorie intake during a 72-hour fast can further support weight loss efforts.
Improved Insulin Sensitivity: Fasting leads to decreased insulin levels, potentially benefiting individuals with insulin resistance or type 2 diabetes by enhancing insulin sensitivity.
Increased Mental Clarity: Reports suggest heightened alertness and focus during ketosis, attributed to the brain's utilization of ketones as an alternative energy source.
Reduced Inflammation: Studies indicate that ketosis may contribute to reduced inflammation, offering potential relief for individuals with inflammatory conditions such as arthritis or autoimmune diseases.
Improved Metabolic Health: Ketosis may positively impact various markers of metabolic health, including triglyceride levels, blood pressure, and HDL (good) cholesterol levels. These benefits are often linked to the weight loss observed during ketosis.
Conclusion:
While the potential benefits of a 72-hour fast for heart health are promising, it is crucial to approach fasting with caution. Undertaking a fast with zero caloric intake for an extended period, especially 72 hours, should be done under professional medical supervision or recommendation, especially for individuals with underlying health conditions. Fasting combined with rigorous exercise should be limited, and under the supervision of a medical professional. By understanding the intricate relationship between heart health, hypertension, and fasting, individuals can make informed decisions to promote a healthier cardiovascular system.
Sources:
https://open.spotify.com/episode/3IPGysPyS1rrQDZD9pl2zG
https://www.theultimatehuman.com/
https://performanceoptimalhealth.com/blog/nutrition/72-hour-fast-pushes-body-into-ketosis/
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/high-blood-pressure/symptoms-causes/syc-20373410
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/intermittent-fasting-what-is-it-and-how-does-it-work
https://www.heart.org/en/news/2019/11/25/regular-fasting-could-lead-to-longer-healthier-life
December Programming
CrossFit Open repeat workouts
Ugly Sweater Wod - “12 Days of Christmas”
Community Highlights/ Announcements
Team 307 @ Turkey Challenge! Congrats to Kyree, Collin, Cam, Andrea, Charlotte, Preston, & Tannar for repping the 307 well and getting on top of the podium!
307 Holiday Hours
December 24th Open 10am - 2pm
December 25th Closed
December 26th No Classes, normal hours of operation
PR Board: Big shoutout to those who excelled and hit some big PRs this past month!
Upcoming Events
307 ATHLETE YOUTH COURSES
Next session coming January 22, 2024
More info at 307athlete.comLOCAL COMPETITIONS
Ugly Sweater Wod - Friday December 22nd (all classes)
Hypoxia - Butte, MO - December 2nd
CrossFit Open - Begins Feb 29
Disclaimer
This website does not provide medical advice. The information provided is purely for educational purposes. No material on this site is intended to be a substitute for medical advice. Please seek your medical provider regarding any medical condition or treatment.