ALTERNATIVES TO HRT/HEART AND BLOOD VESSEL HEALTH: THE TIME OF DAY AT WHICH YOU EAT YOUR MAIN MEAL

The time of day at which you eat your main meal also seems to be important. A recent study, which compared US and French eating habits, concluded that eating the main meal at lunchtime and snacking only once later may reduce the risk of heart disease. The study is one of a series of investigations into the ‘French paradox’ – the fact that, despite a diet that is higher in fat than typical diets of other nations, the French have a relatively low rate of death from heart disease. Many Australians get most of their calories at dinner time, watch TV and go to bed. They are sitting on their rear ends or lying horizontally while their main intake of calories is being metabolised. By contrast, the French continue to work for more than five hours after their largest calorie intake, and this is thought to be beneficial for their blood fat levels.

Herbs credited with having a specific effect on the heart and blood vessels include Chinese angelica, ginseng, motherwort and lime blossom. Heart specialists have noted with interest that vitamin E decreases clot formation, which is also an effect of low-dose regular aspirin. Taking both vitamin E and aspirin appears to multiply this effect. Other studies suggest that beta-carotene, a component of fruit and vegetables, also reduces heart attack and stroke risk. Five or more daily servings of fruit and vegetables are required to produce the desired effect.