You may be able to determine if youre at risk for cardiovascular problems by doing a simple stretching exercise rather than an invasive hospital procedure, according to a new study in The American Journal of Physiology.
Researchers found that the sit-and-reach test, or having patients see how far they can reach beyond their toes while in a sitting position, can be used as a measure of how flexible the arteries are. Because arterial stiffness often precedes cardiovascular disease, the results suggest that this simple test could become a quick measure of an individuals risk for early mortality from a heart attack or stroke.
In addition, scientists say increasing flexibility can decrease your risk of heart problems by slowing the age-related stiffening of the arteries in middle-aged and older people.
“We believe that flexibility exercise, such as stretching, yoga and Pilates should be integrated as a new recommendation into the known cardiovascular benefits of regular exercise,” said study author Dr. Kenta Yamamoto.
Health practitioners have also recommended a healthy, low-fat diet and cardiovascular exercise to improve heart health.
According to the Mayo Clinic, containing blond psyllium, coenzyme Q-10, flaxseed and omega-3 fatty acids may help lower cholesterol and contribute to reducing the risk of some types of heart disease.