TREATMENT UPDATE: Cardiologists re-think daily aspirin use

Posted by Medical Foods Staff on 03 20 2019

New research changes the recommendations about daily aspirin use. Older adults are more likely to benefit from lifestyle changes to help prevent heart attacks and strokes.

According to the American College of Cardiology and the American Heart Association a daily dose of 75 to 100 milligrams of aspirin should no longer be taken by people older than 70, or any adult with an increased risk of bleeding as a way to prevent atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Aspirin is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), and is associated with an increased risk of stroke and severe bleeding and hemorrhaging.

Marcus Charuvastra, CEO of Targeted Medical Pharma, believes that “Physicians will still be recommending Aspirin to some patients who've had a heart attack, stroke, open-heart surgery or stents, but the widespread use of this NSAID will likely decline in the coming years.” According to Mr. Charuvastra, “In addition to lifestyle changes, people over the age of 70 will increasingly turn to natural products like grape seed extract, curcumin, turmeric and Theramine, and other proven inflammation fighting compounds to support their cardiovascular health.”

Simple tips to support heart health:

Improve Your Diet

A diet full of vegetables, fruits, legumes, nuts, whole grains and fish is best for overall cardiovascular health, according to the American College of Cardiology. Limit eating salt, saturated fats, fried foods, processed meats and drinking sweetened beverages.

Exercise regularly

150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise each week. This could include brisk walking, swimming, dancing or cycling.

Keep a healthy weight

According to the ACC, losing 5 to 10 percent of body weight can decrease the risk of heart disease, stroke and other health issues among obese and overweight individuals.