How To Treat & Manage Angina Naturally
Natural and alternative medicine is continuing to grow in popularity, most notably in the United States. In 2023, the market size of alternative medicine products actually reached $179.17 billion, with projected market growth to $694.22 billion by 2030. Other metrics in opinion polling have also shown that almost a third of American adults now use natural health products to keep their bodies in top shape.
This rise in the popularity of natural remedies mirrors a broader societal shift towards more health-conscious decisions, with many individuals seeking out alternative remedies and holistic approaches to wellness.
When it comes to angina, a condition affecting around 5% of the population, there are many different natural remedies and treatments available. Some which have benefits, others which don’t live up to the hype.
It’s long been established that dietary and lifestyle choices are the main focus of treating and managing angina external to traditional medication, but given the ever-growing natural health market, more and more alternative therapies are emerging.
Thus, while the focus on diet and lifestyle remains critical, exploring the potential of herbal medicines and natural supplements offers an added dimension to the natural management of angina, aligning with the broader trend of seeking holistic and natural approaches to health and wellness.
What Are The Symptoms Of Angina?
For those of you reading this who may be unaware, angina is a manifestation of coronary artery disease which occurs when the heart doesn’t receive enough oxygen-rich blood. The first step for many on their road to being diagnosed with angina will undoubtedly be after they have experienced one of many of the following symptoms.
Chest Pain & Discomfort. This is the most common hallmark of angina. This sensation, often described as aching, pressure, tightness, or squeezing, is typically felt in the centre or left side of the chest. It occurs because the heart muscle is temporarily receiving less blood and oxygen than it needs, especially during physical exertion or stress.
Pain In The Arms, Neck, Jaw, Shoulder or Back. Pain from angina can defer to other parts of a person’s upper body. People may feel pain in their arms (especially the left arm), neck, jaw, shoulder, or back. This pain can be confusing as it might not be immediately associated with heart problems.
Shortness of Breath. Because angina leads to a person’s heart being unable to pump enough blood to meet the body’s needs, shortness of breath may occur. This symptom most commonly occurs when people with angina are undertaking physical activity, but can also be present during times of rest in more severe cases.
Fatigue & Feeling Tired. Feeling unusually tired, especially during activities that used to be easy, is a symptom of many different conditions, of which Angina is one. It is often the case that for those with angina the heart struggling to provide sufficient oxygen to the body causes fatigue and tiredness.
Dizziness or Lightheadedness. Insufficient blood flow to the brain due to angina can cause feelings of dizziness or lightheadedness in many people. This particular symptom may occur alongside other symptoms, but it can also happen independently.
Nausea. Some people with angina describe feeling nauseous when symptoms present. This can also be accompanied by a feeling of fullness or indigestion. This is not typically related directly to heart conditions however, and is often more present in women with angina.
Anxiety. Angina can quickly lead to feelings of anxiety for those suffering. During an angina attack, many people will mistake these for heart attacks causing them to worry more. As well as this, once diagnosed many people with angina are anxious of when they will suffer an angina attack.
Sweating. Excessive perspiration, especially without having been involved in physical exercise, can be a symptom of angina. This is due to the body having to work harder to pump blood to the vital organs, and in response your body sweats to keep your temperature down.
Heart Friendly Diets For Angina
One of the first pieces of advice that a doctor will give a person once diagnosing them with angina, is to be more conscious of the foods they eat and avoid. The foods we eat have a direct impact on heart health, influencing factors such as cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and inflammation, all of which are significant in how severe a case of angina is for a person.
A diet rich in certain nutrients supports the cardiovascular system, helping to alleviate symptoms of angina and reduce the risk of more serious heart conditions.
The healthiest foods for our hearts are of course fruits and vegetables, but along with these things like whole grains and healthy fats also have a good effect on our cardiovascular health. Consequently, avoiding potentially damaging foods such as; unhealthy fats, sodium, and added sugars can help work toward maintaining a healthier weight and managing blood pressure. Thus, working to minimise the effects of symptoms of angina.
Recommended Foods
- Fruits & Vegetables
- Whole Grains
- Healthy Fats
- Low-fat Dairy
- Lean Protein
Foods To Avoid
- High-fat Meats
- Full-fat Dairy
- Processed & Fried Food
- High-sodium Foods
- Sugary Food & Drink
Exercises That People With Angina Can Do
Intense physical activities can be difficult for individuals with angina because they demand a higher level of oxygen and blood flow to the heart. Since angina is a symptom of reduced blood flow to the heart, vigorous exercises are often out of the question for people suffering with the condition.
Therefore, light to moderate exercises are more suitable for individuals with angina as they help improve cardiovascular health without overly straining the heart. These exercises can enhance blood flow, increase the heart’s efficiency, and improve overall fitness levels, all of which are beneficial for managing angina. Some recommended exercises include:
3 Of The Best Exercises Most People With Angina Can Do
Walking: A 30 to 60-minute walk each day is an excellent way to improve cardiovascular health. Walking is a low-impact exercise that can be easily adjusted to a person’s age or fitness level.
Yoga: Yoga is beneficial for both the body and mind. It helps in stress reduction, also helping to combat the feelings of anxiety, as well as improving circulation which will directly help a person’s heart.
Swimming: Swimming is a great low impact exercise that works on the whole body. It’s also an exercise that won’t put too much stress on the heart and cardiovascular system and it is particularly good at improving the body’s overall circulation.
NOTE: With these 3 exercises it is important to make sure that a person with angina does not partake in any physical activity while they are experiencing any angina symptoms.
Herbalist Approach To Treating Angina
Traditionally embraced in both European and Asian medicinal practices, Hawthorn has many properties that make it a popular natural remedy for angina. In one study in particular, people with Type 2 diabetes who were also taking prescribed medicine took 1,200mg of hawthorn extract daily or placebo for 16 weeks. Those taking hawthorn had lower blood pressure than those taking the placebo.
On top of this, hawthorn extract is thought to promote cardiovascular health overall too! It has been seen to have the potential to increase the heart’s efficiency in pumping blood, coupled with its ability to widen blood vessels and improve nerve signal transmission.
All of this is why it is becoming a more and more sought after natural treatment for those suffering from angina. However, it’s important to approach Hawthorn’s use with a degree of caution. The efficacy of Hawthorn in treating heart conditions like angina has been supported in some studies, but the scientific community does not universally endorse its use due to variations in research findings.
Neprinol AFD For Angina
Neprinol Advanced Fibrin Defence (AFD) is a natural enzyme supplement that many health professionals recognise and recommend in managing cardiovascular health.
Its effectiveness in helping treat angina stems mainly from its distinctive blend of digestive enzymes. Containing nattokinase, serrapeptase, bromelain, and papain (enzymes which play a critical role in targeting fibrinous plaque buildup in the arteries) it is seen as a natural medication that those suffering from angina can supplement with.
The primary function of these enzymes in Neprinol AFD is to help break down fibrin, a protein involved in blood clotting. Excessive fibrin in the blood vessels contributes to the development of plaque, which can narrow or block coronary arteries, something which makes angina much worse and harder to manage.
If you’re suffering from Angina and want to give Neprinol AFD a try as a natural supplement to help manage the condition. Neprinol AFD is available on Advanced Supplements.
