Ever feel like your weight doesn’t tell the full story of your health? That’s because it doesn’t! Your body is made up of more than just pounds—and understanding those details is the key to real progress.
More Than Just Weight—See the Full Picture
Traditional scales stop at weight, but your health is so much more. Body composition scales allow you to monitor additional metrics that significantly impact your wellness. Tracking these biometrics offers a comprehensive view of your health, enabling you to make informed decisions about your wellness journey.
Key Metrics to Track: Body Fat Index:
Understanding your body fat percentage helps you assess your risk for conditions like heart disease and diabetes. It provides a clearer picture of your body composition, beyond just weight. Without monitoring body fat, you may overlook high body fat levels, increasing your risk of heart disease, diabetes, and other related health issues.
Muscle Index:
Monitoring muscle mass ensures you’re maintaining or building muscle, which is crucial for metabolic health, strength, and overall physical function. Failing to track muscle mass can lead to muscle loss, reduced strength, and slower metabolism, which can negatively impact your overall health and physical performance.
Visceral Fat Index:
Tracking visceral fat allows you to assess your health risk. Unlike subcutaneous fat, it surrounds vital organs like the liver, stomach, and intestines. High levels of visceral fat are linked to serious health issues such as cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, and high blood pressure. You could have a weight but still be at risk for metabolic disorders due to high visceral fat levels. Not monitoring visceral fat can result in undetected high levels, increasing the risk of these serious health conditions.
Body Water:
Staying hydrated is essential for bodily functions such as temperature regulation, joint lubrication, and nutrient transportation. Tracking body water helps ensure you’re maintaining optimal hydration levels. Without tracking hydration, you may experience dehydration, leading to low energy, mental fog, increased risk of stroke, and other health issues.
Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR):
Importance: Knowing your BMR helps you understand how many calories your body needs at rest. This information is vital for managing your weight and tailoring your diet and exercise plans to meet your health goals.
Not knowing your BMR can lead to improper calorie intake, resulting in weight gain or loss, and potentially causing metabolic imbalances.
Seamless Integration with A&D Heart Track App
This Body Composition Scale, paired with the A&D Heart Track app, provides a seamless and effective way to monitor your wellness journey.
Discover the benefits of tracking your health metrics with A&D Medical’s Bluetooth® Body Composition Scale here.
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]]>February is Heart Health month—an ideal time to focus on well-being and encourage positive lifestyle changes. Here are simple, impactful activities to promote heart health over four weeks. These ideas are designed to inspire individuals and communities to prioritize cardiovascular wellness.
Consult a Healthcare Professional
Before starting any new routines, consult a healthcare professional, especially if you have existing health conditions. Personalized advice ensures safe and effective results.
Sharing progress, recipes, and photos with family and friends fosters motivation and a sense of community. Working together makes building a heart-healthy lifestyle enjoyable and sustainable.
Heart Health month is an opportunity to embrace practices that support cardiovascular wellness. These activities help inspire healthier hearts and happier lives.
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]]>High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a silent health threat that affects millions worldwide. Left unmanaged, it can lead to severe complications such as heart disease, stroke, and kidney problems. The good news? You can take simple, natural steps to lower your blood pressure and maintain healthier readings. Here are six science-backed tips to get you started:
Did you know that your morning cup of coffee could be affecting your blood pressure? Studies show that caffeine can temporarily spike blood pressure levels for up to three hours after consumption. If you’re a coffee enthusiast, consider limiting your intake or switching to decaf. Tracking your caffeine habits can reveal patterns and help you manage your levels more effectively.
Excess sodium is a well-known culprit behind high blood pressure. Aim to limit your salt intake to about one teaspoon (6 grams) per day. Replace salt with flavorful alternatives like herbs, spices, garlic, or lemon juice to enhance your meals without the added sodium. Even small changes can have significant effects on your heart health.
Weight loss is one of the most effective lifestyle changes for controlling blood pressure. For every 2.2 pounds (1 kilogram) you lose, you may reduce your blood pressure by about 1 mmHg. Focus on maintaining a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains, and engage in regular physical activity to support healthy weight loss.
Sleep is essential for overall health, and poor sleep patterns can contribute to high blood pressure. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night. Develop a consistent sleep routine, create a relaxing bedtime environment, and minimize distractions such as screens before bedtime. Quality rest supports your heart and overall well-being.
Physical activity is a powerful tool in managing blood pressure. Regular aerobic exercise, such as brisk walking, jogging, cycling, or swimming, can lower your blood pressure by 5-8 mmHg. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week. The key is consistency—find activities you enjoy and make them a part of your routine.
While moderate alcohol consumption can have some health benefits, excessive drinking raises blood pressure levels. Stick to recommended guidelines: no more than 14 units per week spread over several days. Cutting back on alcohol can significantly improve your cardiovascular health and reduce hypertension risks.
These practical tips can empower you to take control of your blood pressure and improve your overall health. Remember, even small changes can lead to significant results over time. Track your progress, celebrate your wins, and stay consistent with your efforts.
Ready to take charge of your heart health? Try incorporating these tips into your routine today. For additional support, download our free blood pressure tracker or explore our range of advanced blood pressure monitors designed to help you stay on top of your health goals. Share your journey and tips in the comments below—we’d love to hear from you!
Your heart will thank you for it!
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]]>Blood Pressure Monitors, thermometers, and pulse oximeters qualify for reimbursement through a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA). Additionally, a weight scale can be reimbursed if accompanied by a Letter of Medical Necessity.
Contact your employer for details on using your specific FSA. Generally, to receive reimbursement for eligible purchases, submit a claim along with your receipt to your employer or plan provider. You’ll then receive reimbursement for your expenses. Make sure to track claim submission deadlines to avoid missing out on reimbursements. Maintain organized records of your receipts and necessary paperwork in case your claim is audited.
To get reimbursed for eligible expenses with an HSA, ensure the expense occurred after your HSA was established. You can reimburse yourself by writing a check from your HSA account or initiating an online check reimbursement or transfer. Understand the annual contribution limits for HSAs, which helps with budgeting and planning. HSA funds grow tax-free, and withdrawals for qualified medical expenses are also tax-free. Save receipts and documentation, even after reimbursement, to support your tax filings.
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]]>Do you have a friend or loved one looking to get healthier? Why not encourage them to keep up their healthy habits with a thoughtful, but useful gift. The holidays are the perfect time to show you care and support their journey to better health. Here’s a heart-healthy gift guide filled with ideas that can help keep your loved ones on a healthy path while spreading joy this season!
Cooking can be both delicious and healthy. There are lots of great cookbooks that emphasize whole foods, plant-based recipes, and low-sodium options, all healthy options.
The New American Heart Association Cookbook, 9th Edition: Revised and Updated with More Than 100 All-New Recipes The most recognized and respected name in heart health has a cookbook with delicious, heart healthy recipes.
Extra virgin olive oil is a staple of heart-healthy diets. A beautifully packaged bottle can make a thoughtful gift, perfect for drizzling over salads or using in cooking.
Brightland olive oil is cold-pressed by a master miller that keeps it fresh and flavorful, plus they come in sets that are packaged ready to gift.
A compact blender is perfect for making smoothies packed with fruits and vegetables. It’s a great way to encourage healthy snacking.
The BlendJet makes blending fresh, healthy smoothies possible wherever you go.
Regularly checking blood pressure can help individuals stay informed about their cardiovascular health and detect any potential issues early.
The A&D Bluetooth® Monitor connects to the FREE, highly rated Heart Track Companion App to make tracking blood pressure extra easy.
Herbal teas like hibiscus and green tea are known for their heart health benefits. A selection of high-quality teas can encourage relaxation and hydration.
Harney & Sons comes in an art inspired tin and Royal Pomegranate tea offers a light and layered blend of detoxifying green tea and antioxidant-rich pomegranate.
Gift a subscription or pass to local yoga or fitness classes. This encourages physical activity and stress reduction, both vital for heart health.
A gift card to ClassPass allows access to various fitness classes, including yoga, pilates, and more
Personal Touch: Add a handwritten note with heart health tips or a favorite healthy recipe.
Encourage Togetherness: Plan a heart-healthy cooking night or a group fitness class to make the gift even more special.
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]]>Thanksgiving is a time for family, gratitude, and of course, delicious food. But it doesn’t have to be a time to compromise on health. By incorporating heart-healthy ingredients into your dishes, you can enjoy a festive meal that’s both tasty and good for your heart.
Here are five heart-healthy side dishes that will keep your heart happy, and your taste buds satisfied.
Brussels sprouts are a fantastic source of fiber and antioxidants. This dish combines the nutty flavor of roasted Brussels sprouts with the sweetness of cranberries and the crunch of pecans. It’s a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Find the recipe here
Traditional stuffing can be heavy and high in sodium, but this quinoa stuffing is a lighter, heart-healthy alternative. Quinoa is a complete protein and is rich in heart-healthy nutrients like magnesium and potassium.
Find the recipe here
Sweet potatoes are packed with vitamins A and C, and they have a natural sweetness that makes them a favorite at Thanksgiving. This casserole uses an oat topping instead of marshmallows, making it a healthier choice.
Find the recipe here
Green beans are a low-calorie, nutrient-dense vegetable that can be a great addition to your Thanksgiving table. This simple recipe uses garlic and a touch of olive oil to enhance the natural flavor of the green beans.
Find the recipe here
Cranberries are known for their antioxidant properties, and this relish combines them with the bright, citrusy flavor of oranges. It’s a refreshing side that pairs well with turkey and other Thanksgiving dishes.
Find the recipe here
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]]>High blood pressure, often associated with adults, is increasingly becoming a concern for children and adolescents. Recent studies highlight the importance of monitoring and managing blood pressure from a young age to prevent long-term health issues.
Incidence and Statistics: According to the American Heart Association, about 1 in 7 children and teens in the U.S. have blood pressure that’s higher than normal. This includes both elevated blood pressure and hypertension.
Several factors contribute to the risk of developing high blood pressure in children:
High blood pressure in children often goes unnoticed because it usually doesn’t cause symptoms. However, in severe cases or hypertensive crises, children may experience:
If your child exhibits any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to seek emergency medical care.
High blood pressure in childhood is linked to a higher risk of cardiovascular disease in adulthood. It can lead to target organ damage, such as left ventricular hypertrophy and pathologic vascular changes. Early intervention is crucial to mitigate these risks.
Preventing and managing high blood pressure in children involves:
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]]>A recent study has revealed a crucial link between high blood pressure and an increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease, emphasizing the importance of regular blood pressure monitoring. Published on August 14, 2024, in Neurology, the study found that individuals aged 60 and above with untreated high blood pressure are at a significantly higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s compared to those who regularly monitor and manage their blood pressure.
Alzheimer’s disease, the most common form of dementia, affects nearly 7 million people in the U.S., accounting for 60% to 80% of all dementia cases. Characterized by severe memory loss and cognitive decline, Alzheimer’s interferes with daily life. While aging is the primary risk factor, the study highlights that untreated high blood pressure significantly increases the risk, making regular monitoring essential.
Hypertension can damage blood vessels and reduce blood flow to the brain, contributing to cognitive decline and increasing the likelihood of Alzheimer’s. The study showed that individuals who do not regularly monitor their blood pressure face a much higher risk of developing the disease compared to those who manage their blood pressure effectively.
Regular blood pressure monitoring is crucial for early detection and management of hypertension, helping to prevent serious health issues like Alzheimer’s. Early intervention through consistent monitoring can protect brain health and reduce the risk of dementia.
Medications: Regular monitoring allows for timely adjustments to ensure optimal blood pressure control.
Healthy Lifestyle: A diet low in sodium, regular exercise, and stress management are key components of maintaining healthy blood pressure.
Mental and Social Engagement: Staying mentally active and maintaining social connections also support brain health.
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