Heart disease number one killer in North Georgia

Cobb County Public Health was awarded a grant in September 2011 in the amount of $499,000 to address health issues within the county. Cobb and Douglas counties have launched a joint initiative to improve the health of every citizen through education, increasing wellness policies and reducing chronic disease caused by environmental factors.

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in Cobb and Douglas counties. Most other counties in Georgia can also list heart disease as one of two leading causes of deaths. The nation, as a whole, does not fare much better than the state of Georgia. The Georgia Department of Health would like to help educate everyone on the signs and symptoms of a heart attack or stroke and on the lifestyle changes necessary to prevent or reverse cardiovascular disease. 

Inflammation anywhere in the body, including that of arthritis, ear infections and neuropathy, can lead to heart disease. As February has been proclaimed Heart Health Month, everyone should learn which foods and plants are naturally anti-inflammatory. Foods high in sugar and fat content lead to inflammation within the body.

Naturally anti-inflammatory:

1. Anchovies: Make pizza at home from scratch, using ultra-thin crust, sliced or sun-dried tomatoes and low-fat cheese. Other healthy toppings include red onion, shiitake mushrooms and fresh pineapple.
2. Blueberries: These berries are best eaten right off the bush, but also make an excellent addition to fruit salad or a topping for hot cereal.
3. Flaxseed: Add flaxseed to homemade muffin mixes for a slightly nutty taste without the nuts. Flaxseed can be added to homemade bread recipes and some casseroles.
4. Ginger: Add fresh-grated ginger to stewed apples or pears.
5. Green tea: Drink the tea hot or cold, but don't add the milk.
6. Papaya: This fruit may not be available in some local North Georgia stores. Ask a store produce manager to order the fruit.
7. Pineapple: The most benefits come from fresh pineapple. This fruit is abundant in North Georgia grocery stores currently.
8. Turmeric: Add this colorful spice to just about any recipe, such as potato salad, soups, stews and seafood dishes.
9. Walnuts: Eat a handful every day or add them to everything.
10. Wild caught Alaskan salmon: Fresh baked is perfect, but canned salmon is also good. Just do not buy it from any Asian country.