Onslow Memorial Hospital celebrates American Heart Month with Unusual Menu

JACKSONVILLE, N.C. - Feb. 25, 2014 - PRLog -- JACKSONVILLE -- Dark chocolate, red wine, even a bouquet of fragrant flowers aren’t just Valentine’s Day staples.  They are also fast making their way onto doctors’ lists when advising patients on good heart health.

Educating patients on the lesser known heart-healthy benefits of foods like dark chocolate and fermented grapes is part of Onslow Memorial Hospital’s (OMH) contribution to American Heart Month, which runs through February.

“Some foods once winced at because of their unhealthy or dubious reputation are now proving to be quite beneficial to heart health,” said Dr. Michael Josilevich of Internal Medicine and Primary Care.  “That isn’t to suggest forgoing foods that we know are good for our hearts. It is to suggest that we’re learning more about food science and how it benefits the human heart.”

Rich in a class of plant nutrients called flavonoids, chocolate, for example, has been found to be a powerful antioxidant, according to Cleveland Clinic research. Antioxidants, which are found in many fruits and vegetables, are believed to help the body's cells resist damage. In the context of heart health, the absence of antioxidants can cause low-density lipoprotein (LDL), also known as "bad" cholesterol, to form plaque on the artery walls.

Antioxidants may also be found in red wine. Heart experts say drinking red wine in moderation may help prevent heart disease by increasing levels of “good” cholesterol and protecting against artery damage.

Resveratrol, another natural substance found in red wine, is also showing promise in the area of heart health, as it seems to reduce risks for inflammation and blood clotting, both of which can lead to heart disease. Many North Carolina wines are especially high in resveratrol.

Not a wine drinker? No problem.  Simply eating grapes, or drinking grape juice, has been suggested as one way to get resveratrol without drinking alcohol. Other foods that contain resveratrol include peanuts, blueberries and cranberries.

“We all know regular vigorous exercise is good for the heart,” said Dr. Erin Griffin of Onslow Primary Care.  ” We must also realize, however, that modalities like breathing exercises and meditation, even looking at a beautiful sunset, also do a lot to manage blood pressure and stress, both of which affect heart health.”

“Most of us know what kinds of foods do our heart good – vegetables, lean meats and foods low in cholesterol, sodium and sugar,” said Amy Sousa, vice president of public relations at Onslow Memorial Hospital. “What many of us don’t know is that some research shows that some foods and drinks not traditionally or customarily associated with heart health actually do benefit the heart. Moderation is the key, of course.”

And don’t forget about that flower bouquet: Beyond what you put in your mouth for a healthy heart, creating moments of joy, relaxation and beauty throughout one’s day also seems to impact heart health, say researchers and health experts. Breathing techniques and silent meditation - where rest, greater self-awareness and appreciation for life are the goals - also seem to contribute to heart health.

Neither the American Heart Association nor the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute recommend that you start drinking alcohol just to prevent heart disease. Alcohol – especially in excessive amounts -- can be addictive and can cause or worsen other health problems.  If you have questions about the benefits and risks of alcohol, talk to your doctor about specific recommendations for you.

About Onslow Memorial Hospital:

With more than 1,200 employees, Onslow Memorial Hospital is a 162-bed acute care hospital located in Jacksonville, NC and proudly serves the Onslow County area.   Specialty services include oncology, radiation oncology, cardiology, orthopedics, urology, obstetrics, gynecology, otolaryngology, women’s imaging, sleep lab, rehabilitation, cardiac rehabilitation, gastroenterology, neurology, pulmonology, and more. Onslow Memorial Hospital recently received the national designation from the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer.  For more information, contact Amy Sousa, Vice President of Public Relations and Marketing, at 910-577-4736.