Updates from Maria Custode

How serious is coronary heart disease?

How serious is coronary heart disease?
Understanding the True Consequences of Coronary Heart Disease

According to data from the World Health Organization, coronary heart disease (CHD) is the leading cause of death for both men and women worldwide. Unfortunately, this chronic illness can often go unnoticed until it develops into a more serious condition, making it critical to understand the true consequences of CHD. For women, in particular, this information can be especially helpful as the symptoms and risks of the disease can vary greatly based on gender.

First and foremost, CHD can affect every aspect of your life, from your day-to-day activities to your mental health. It can cause fatigue, shortness of breath, and chest pains, making it difficult to perform even the most basic tasks. This can lead to decreased mobility, which could then lead to depression and anxiety. In some cases, the onset of CHD can also lead to a decreased libido, which can impact your personal relationships.

Furthermore, the long-term effects of CHD can be severe. If left untreated, CHD can lead to heart failure, stroke, or even sudden cardiac arrest. Moreover, individuals with CHD are at a greater risk of developing other chronic diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. These conditions further exacerbate the effects of CHD, making it even more critical to prevent it before it develops into a more serious condition.

Another aspect worth considering is the financial burden of CHD. From hospital visits to medication costs, CHD can take a significant toll on your finances. Moreover, if you are unable to work or work reduced hours due to the condition, your income may be affected, leading to further stress and decreased quality of life.

Additionally, it's worth noting that women may experience slightly different symptoms than men. While chest pain is the most common symptom for both genders, women are more likely to experience shortness of breath, fatigue, nausea, and jaw or back pain. This factor makes it even more important for women to listen to their bodies and seek medical attention if they suspect they may have CHD.

In conclusion, there is nothing to take lightly about CHD. It can cause a myriad of physical, emotional, and financial challenges that can have a devastating impact on your life. Thus, understanding the consequences of this chronic illness and taking prevention measures can help you avoid developing this disease or manage it properly if already diagnosed. As women, it's vital that we prioritize our health, listen to our bodies, and seek medical attention when necessary. Let's choose to make our health a priority and avoid the severe consequences of CHD.

Here’s the link to what I use to support my cardiovascular system.


Ask me about the 11 day jumpstart to lose 7-15 lbs and reduce inflammation. 




Disclaimer: The information in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult with a healthcare professional before making any changes to your diet or lifestyle.

What foods cause cholesterol to be high?

What foods cause cholesterol to be high?
Is Your High Cholesterol Linked to What You Eat?


Cholesterol is one of those buzzwords that we often hear, but how much do we truly understand it? As women, we understand the importance of healthy living and limiting our risk factors for diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. However, despite the familiar warnings about processed foods and unhealthy diets, some of us may still find ourselves struggling with high cholesterol levels. Many of us are quick to assume that genetics or lack of exercise are to blame while completely ignoring the key factor of the foods we consume. In this blog post, I will discuss the link between high cholesterol and our diets, particularly the foods that cause cholesterol to spike.


To start, it is essential to understand that cholesterol is not entirely bad. Our bodies require adequate levels of cholesterol to function correctly, helping to build cell walls, insulate nerves, and produce hormones. The trouble begins when there is an excess of cholesterol or a shortage of the right kind of cholesterol. High-density lipoprotein (HDL) is good cholesterol that prevents plaque buildup in the arteries when in adequate amounts. In contrast, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) is the bad cholesterol that accumulates in arteries, forming plaque and raising the risk of heart disease. The question is, how do the foods we eat contribute to this imbalance in cholesterol levels?

Foods high in saturated fat are the most significant culprits for increasing LDL levels. This type of fat primarily comes from animal sources, including meat, dairy products, and eggs. Cutting back on saturated fats can be a simple and effective way to lower your cholesterol level. Instead, opt for healthier fats like monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats found in foods like avocados, nuts, and seeds. Additionally, Omega-3 fatty acids found in fatty fish, flaxseeds, and chia seeds have been shown to reduce LDL levels while raising HDL levels.

Another way to lower your cholesterol levels is to increase your intake of low-glycemic foods. Foods with a high glycemic index, like processed snacks and refined grains, can cause spikes in insulin and cholesterol levels. Instead, choose whole foods like whole-grain bread, brown rice, and quinoa. Additionally, increasing fiber intake by consuming more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains have shown to lower cholesterol levels.

Trans fatty acids are perhaps the most harmful fat that you should avoid or minimize in your diet. These can be found in packaged foods, fried food, and baked goods such as muffins, cookies, and cakes. These are the types of fats that can significantly increase LDL levels and increase your risk of heart disease. So be sure to read food labels and avoid foods with hydrogenated oils.

Furthermore, to maintain healthy cholesterol levels, you should be mindful of your sugar intake. Diets high in added sugars lead to elevated triglycerides, which can cause your LDL levels to rise. To avoid this, try and limit your intake of sugary sweetened beverages, baked goods, and candy. Instead, go for healthy treats such as fresh fruits, dried fruits, or dark chocolate.


In conclusion, maintaining healthy cholesterol levels is crucial for women of all ages, and diet plays a vital role. By making simple food swaps, limiting your consumption of saturated and trans fats, and increasing fiber intake, you can significantly reduce your cholesterol levels. It's imperative to consider your diet as your first line of defense in lowering your cholesterol levels, and consulting your healthcare professional along with incorporating good eating habits, can be the best and most effective way to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Here's the link to what I use to support a healthy cholesterol level



Ask me about the 11 day jumpstart to lose 7-15 lbs and reduce inflammation.


Disclaimer: The information in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult with a healthcare professional before making any changes to your diet or lifestyle.

What are the signs of high blood pressure in a woman?

What are the signs of high blood pressure in a woman?
Don't Ignore These Warning Signs of High Blood Pressure in Women

As women, we often spend so much time taking care of everyone else that we forget to take care of ourselves. High blood pressure is a serious health issue that affects millions of women around the world, but many of us don't even know the warning signs to look out for. In this post, we'll discuss the signs of high blood pressure in women, what causes it, and how to prevent it.

Headaches: If you've been experiencing frequent headaches, especially in the morning, it could be a sign of high blood pressure. When blood pressure is high, it puts pressure on blood vessels in the brain, which can cause headaches.

Dizziness or lightheadedness: Feeling dizzy or lightheaded can be a sign of many things, but if you're experiencing these symptoms often, it could be a sign of high blood pressure. High blood pressure can cause blood vessels to narrow, reducing blood flow to the brain and leading to dizziness.

Fatigue: If you're feeling tired and worn out all the time, even after a good night's sleep, it could be a sign of high blood pressure. When blood pressure is high, the heart has to work harder to pump blood throughout the body, which can cause fatigue.

Shortness of breath: Feeling out of breath or having difficulty breathing can be a sign of high blood pressure. When blood vessels in the lungs are affected by high blood pressure, it can lead to shortness of breath.

Chest pain: Chest pain can be a sign of many things, but if it's accompanied by other symptoms like shortness of breath or dizziness, it could be a sign of high blood pressure or even a heart attack. It's important to seek medical attention right away if you're experiencing chest pain.

In conclusion, high blood pressure is a serious health issue that can affect women of all ages. The good news is that it's preventable and treatable, but it's important to be aware of the warning signs and seek medical attention if you're experiencing any of them. A healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, stress management, and avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption, can help lower your risk of high blood pressure. It's important to take care of yourself and prioritize your health, even when life gets busy.

You can monitor your blood pressure at home with a blood pressure monitor for home use.

Here’s the link to what I use to support healthy heart function.


Ask me about the 11 day jumpstart to lose 7-15 lbs and reduce inflammation. 

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Disclaimer: The information in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult with a healthcare professional before making any changes to your diet or lifestyle.

What are the warning signs of Coronary Heart Disease?

What are the warning signs of Coronary Heart Disease?
The Silent Killer: Recognizing the Warning Signs of Coronary Heart Disease in Women

 Coronary heart disease (CHD) is the leading cause of death for both men and women worldwide. However, many women are unaware of the warning signs of CHD, which can be very different from the classic symptoms men experience. CHD is often considered a man's disease, which can lead to women being misdiagnosed or undiagnosed altogether. This is why it's essential for women to educate themselves on the warning signs of CHD, so they can seek treatment early and improve their chances of survival.


Chest Pain or Discomfort: The most common symptom of CHD is angina, a chest pain or discomfort that occurs when the heart muscle isn't getting enough blood or oxygen. Women may experience different types of angina than men, such as a sharp pain in the upper back, shoulder, or arms. Women are also more likely to experience angina while resting or sleeping.

Shortness of Breath: Women with CHD may experience shortness of breath, even when performing simple tasks like walking up stairs. They may also experience a feeling of fatigue or weakness that doesn't go away with rest.

Indigestion, Nausea, or Vomiting: Women may experience indigestion, nausea, or vomiting as a symptom of CHD. These symptoms may be more common in women than in men. Women may also experience sweating, lightheadedness, or dizziness with these symptoms.

Pain in the Jaw, Neck, Upper Back, or Arms: Women may have pain or discomfort in the jaw, neck, upper back, or arms as a symptom of CHD. This pain may be accompanied by shortness of breath, sweating, nausea, or fatigue.

Flu-like Symptoms: Women may experience flu-like symptoms, such as fatigue, nausea, or shortness of breath, as a symptom of CHD. These symptoms may occur weeks or months before a heart attack.


It's crucial for women to recognize the warning signs of CHD, as they may be different from the classic symptoms men experience. Women may be more likely to experience vague or flu-like symptoms, which can lead to misdiagnosis or underdiagnosis. If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, it's essential to seek medical attention immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment can improve your chances of surviving CHD. To reduce your risk of developing CHD, maintain a healthy diet, exercise regularly, quit smoking, and manage your stress levels. Remember, your heart health is in your hands.

Here’s the link to what I use to support my cardiovascular system.


Ask me about the 11 day jumpstart to lose 7-15 lbs and reduce inflammation.



Disclaimer: The information in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult with a healthcare professional before making any changes to your diet or lifestyle.

How can I lower my cholesterol quickly?

How can I lower my cholesterol quickly?
10 Holistic Ways To Lower Your Cholesterol Quickly:

If you want to keep your heart healthy and reduce the risk of heart disease, then you must take control of your cholesterol level. High cholesterol levels can put you at risk of heart diseases and stroke, but the good news is that you can lower your cholesterol quickly through some natural and holistic ways. Adopting these simple lifestyle changes can provide long-lasting benefits to your heart and overall health. Therefore, in this blog post, we will discuss the ten holistic ways to lower your cholesterol quickly.

Opt For A Heart-Healthy Diet: You need to make sure you are eating a heart-healthy diet that includes whole grains, fruits, and vegetables that are rich in fiber. Eating foods high in saturated fats, trans fats, and cholesterol can increase your blood cholesterol.

Exercise Regularly: Regular exercises such as walking, running, cycling, and swimming can help reduce cholesterol levels. Aim for at least 30 minutes of aerobic exercise five times a week.

Quit Smoking: Smoking constricts blood vessels, increases blood pressure, damages artery walls, and leads to the accumulation of fatty deposits in the arteries, which can raise cholesterol levels. Quitting smoking can lower cholesterol levels.

Healthy Fats: Introducing healthy fats into your diet may help reduce your cholesterol levels. Try eating foods that contain monounsaturated fat, including peanuts, almonds, avocado, and olive oils, rather than saturated and trans fats.

Manage Your Stress Levels: Chronic stress can raise cholesterol levels because it causes the release of cortisol, which raises blood glucose levels, making it difficult for your body to eliminate excess cholesterol.

Weight loss: Being overweight or obese can increase cholesterol levels, so losing weight can help reduce cholesterol levels.

Drink Alcohol Moderately: Drinking alcohol in moderation can increase high-density lipoprotein (HDL), the "good" cholesterol. However, excessive alcohol consumption can increase high triglycerides and lead to heart diseases.

Herbal Supplements: Some herbal supplements have been known to have a positive impact on cholesterol levels. However, always consult with your doctor before taking any herbal supplements.

Increase Your Fiber Intake: Fiber can help reduce cholesterol levels, especially LDL cholesterol. Increase your intake of fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains.

Reduce Processed Foods: Processed foods such as baked goods, fried foods, and fast foods are typically high in sugar, saturated and trans fats, and salt. Reducing your intake of these types of foods can help lower cholesterol.

In conclusion, you can lower your cholesterol level quickly by making simple changes to your lifestyle and diet. Adopting a healthier lifestyle is an essential investment in your health and overall well-being. Therefore, start making the necessary changes today and ensure that you lower your cholesterol level to prevent the risk of heart diseases and stroke. Remember, prevention is always better than cure!

Here's the link to what I use to support a healthy cholesterol level



Ask me about the 11 day jumpstart to lose 7-15 lbs and reduce inflammation.


Disclaimer: The information in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult with a healthcare professional before making any changes to your diet or lifestyle.
 
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Meet Maria Custode

 


As a woman who has juggled the fast-paced world of retail for three decades, I know all too well what it means to miss out on family milestones and personal time. Each missed recital and family dinner underscored a lesson I've come to hold dear: the irreplaceable value of time and the paramount importance of health and wellness as we move through life's chapters.

With this wisdom, I've turned a new leaf. My mission is now to guide and support my fellow women over 40 in their pursuit of a balanced lifestyle that cherishes well-being. Whether you're a dedicated professional, a loving mother, or both, I want to help you seize those fleeting moments of joy and ensure that your health is the foundation upon which you build a fulfilling life.

This isn't just my profession, it's my passion. Join me as we empower one another to make wellness a priority and fully embrace the beauty of every precious moment. Together, let's make this journey an extraordinary one.

P.S. Ask me about the juice that has TOTALLY changed me and my family’s lives! We’re talking detox and weight loss, boom.  Easy, peasy.


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