Meditation improves Arterial Health
5 Jul 11, 12:00 a.m.
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Metabolic Syndrome is defined by a combination 3 factors including high blood pressure, high blood sugar (insulin resistance), high triglyceride, reduced HDL (good cholesterol) and abdominal fat. Metabolic syndrome is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular disease, obesity, diabetes, cognitive decline and cancer. It is very common in adults and early evidence is found in many children - particularly those who have more than 2 hours of screen time per day. Obesity is closely related.
Clearly, we know that lack of activity, high carbohydrate diets and now "psychosocial stress" are risk factors. In this study, the authors measured and showed significant reductions in blood pressure, weight and triglycerides in the relaxation group as compared to a health education group. The primary outcome was a measure of endothelial (inner lining of arteries) function assessed by brachial artery flow-mediated dilation. In simple terms this means that those who practiced the relaxation had more open and elastic arteries.
The study was completed by Kofi Kondwani of the Morehouse School of Meidicine, Atlanta. Dr Lorenzo Cohen of M.D Anderson Cancer Center commented that it was not surprising as metabolic syndrome is linked to inflammation and meditation decreases inflammation. The study group was adult African Americans who underwent a 12 month meditation program or 12 month health education program.
Comment: This is further evidence that we must consider 20 minutes relaxation practice as a key component of a resilient lifestyle along with exercise, sleep and diet.
Date Published:
5/07/2011