Postpartum Abdominal Prolapse

Postpartum Abdominal Prolapse: Natural Changes or a New Challenge?

There would be numerous changes in the body of a mother after the birth of a baby and hence, it is natural that some of these changes do raise certain concerns or in some cases, even lead to decreasing self-confidence levels. Distention of abdomen is one of the most widespread of these changes and can leave mothers with the issue of muscle laxity, skin overload, and disproportionate feelings. This may also have a great impact not only aesthetically but also physically. However, is this a mere shift that will wear out soon or can the proper approaches enhance it?

Why does the abdomen sag after giving birth?

The condition arises due to several physical and anatomical alterations that the pregnant mothers experience during and after childbearing. The key causes of this problem shall be discussed further:

1- Weight before and after pregnancy

The volume and the mode of weight gain during pregnancy is probably the most significant thing that could lead to a sagging abdomen after delivery. Putting on excess weight during pregnancy leads to increased pressure on the abdominal muscles and overstretches the skin such that it is not able to take back the initial shape. Moreover, the significant postpartum weight loss may also lead to the sagging skin because the skin is not going to have the time to achieve the elasticity status.

2- Stretching of muscles and skin during pregnancy

As the fetus keeps growing during pregnancy, the abdomen of the mother extends drastically. The abdominal muscles (particularly the rectus abdominis muscles) and the skin puffs round, stretches, and becomes thin since increasing volume and pressure are created by the presence of the uterus. This lengthening may cause the decrease in the elasticity of the skin and weaken the muscles. It is after giving birth that this stretching does not rotate back to its previous form leaving one with a sagging abdomen.

3- Hormonal changes and muscle relaxation

Pregnancy leads to relaxation of muscles and connective tissues in the body due to the hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy, notably elevated concentration of the hormone, progesterone. This especially works well on the abdominal muscles and lower abdomen. Following pregnancy, hormonal balances normalize with time, but because of the alterations in muscles and tissues, the sagging of the abdomen may occur.

4- Weight gain and rapid weight loss

Changes in weight is another cause of sagging abdomen that is important. Weight gain, especially the rapid and massive weight gain during a pregnancy period, may cause a lot of strain to abdominal muscles. In case of weight loss after giving birth, then the skin will never have to lose its elastic weight and develop into a sagging skin.

5- Number of pregnancies and multiple births

Other mothers who have undergone pregnancies or child births in the past many times tend to be at greater risk of having the abdomen sag than the rest. The skin and abdominal muscles will stretch further with every new pregnancy and these will become more difficult to fix after every delivery. This is particularly seen in women who have given birth on many occasions either vaginally or by cesareans since the abdominal muscles can be weakened than ever before.

6- Type of delivery: natural or cesarean section

Depending on the type of delivery, this may significantly affect the status of the abdomen following delivery. During vaginal delivery, greater force is applied to the abdominal muscles and it may in the process relax the body of the abdominal muscles, yet most often the abdominal muscles can resume their natural posture. Conversely, during a cesarean section, cuts are made on the stomach region and this might undermine the abdominal muscles and make them to sag.

7- Maternal age and pre-pregnancy physical condition

Age of the mother may as well be crucial in sagging abdomen. Aged women tend to have weak body muscles and tend to have more sagging abdomen in comparison to young women. Moreover, the mother condition before the pregnancy (in terms of the abundance of the abdominal muscles and abundance of the physical activity) may be the factor influencing the damage to the abdominal muscles to the extent value.

How to treat a sagging abdomen?

The after-childbirth treatment of abdominal prolapse is possible, and there are a number of proactive measures to restore your stomach muscles to the positive position. In this segment, we are going to find out the various ways in which one can treat this issue.

1- Proper sports and exercises

The one treatment that is fundamental in abdominal prolapse is special exercises to train the abdominal/pelvic floor muscles. Exercises that are safe and effective ways of strengthening your abdominal muscles (particularly during the postpartum period) are:

  • Diaphragmatic Breathing Exercises

The exercises prevent weak abdominal muscles and promote the state of the abdomen.

  • Kegel Movements

Such exercises do not only serve to strengthen the muscles of the pelvic floor, but they can also be used to reestablish the abdominal muscles.

  • Bridge Exercises

Examples of bridge exercises are used to build on the abdominal and back muscles and to avoid sagging stomach.

Though these exercises cannot be viewed as the solution to all the problems of an abdomen, they can be considered as one of the most effective methods to restore the condition of the abdominal muscles and avoid sagging.

2- Proper nutrition and weight control

Eating healthy is also significant in building up of skin as well as muscles during postpartum. Proteins, vitamins (vitamins C and E in particular) and minerals, including zinc, can be consumed to restore tissues and reinforce the skin. In addition, weight management and weight loss progressively is one option, considering a balanced diet and mild exercise may help avoid additional drooping skin.

3- Massage & Physiotherapy

Physical therapy and abdominal massage are highly applicable in the case of abdominal muscles restoration. Physical therapy is a common service many mothers avail in order to strengthen their abdominal muscles to promote their recovery of strength. Massaging facilitates the flow of blood in the abdomen and preventing loose skin.

4- Surgery and Medical Options

In severe incidences there are surgical alternatives that have to be offered in case the sagging abdomen does not recover naturally. Abdominoplasty (abdominal cosmetic surgery) is one of the most frequent methods used in the practice; it implies the removal of excess skin and supports the abdominal muscles. Such surgery is generally applicable to mothers who have developed massive belly droop upon a number of childbirths.

Prevention of sagging abdomen: can it be prevented?

Though stomach protrusion cannot be always avoided, a person can minimize the risks by observing several tips. This section will discuss some of the steps that will assist in prevention of this problem.

1- Self-care during pregnancy

There are principles that one can follow when they are pregnant so that there is the minimum damage caused to the muscles and the skin on the abdomen. This is to be done by:

  • Weight Control

Gaining weight in pregnancy must be controlled by the physician and in a progressive manner to exert less pressure on the abdomen.

  • Pregnancy-Appropriate Exercises

Certain exercises can be done to aid abdominal and pelvic floor strengthening muscles.

  • Observing a healthy diet

Taking in foods that are rich in vitamins and minerals will enhance better skin and tissue fortification.

2- Regular exercise after childbirth

One of the best methods to deal with sagging abdomen is by exercising after childbirth. You can also become stronger in longer term by starting with small stretching out exercises like walking, swimming and yoga to help your stomach muscle gain back its strength quicker. Naturally, one should bear in mind that heavy kinds of sport and intensive training must be introduced with the reference to the doctor and his approval.

3- Wearing compression clothing

Wearing compression clothes-special abdominal bras-after child birth can in some cases keep the muscles of the abdomen and the whole body firmer and reduce the chances of sagging. These garments assist in ways to stabilize the abdominal muscles, as well as get them back into their place quicker.

Final Thoughts

The sagging stomach is a normal post pregnancy process that a lot of mothers have to deal with but the thing is that your body is spectacular and it should never be forgotten. Not only is your body ready to birth a new life, as a mother you can also heal and come back out your best self with certainty and time. Physical postpartum changes It is all a part of your life and there is nothing as good as will power and self-care can assist you through the path. What matters is that you should have time and pride yourself on your beauty and power with each of your steps.

Resources

Postpartum Belly: How to Get Rid of It

Loose skin after pregnancy: Pictures, treatments, and timeline

Nonsurgical Postpartum Abdominal Rejuvenation: A Review and Our Experience

Men also experience periodic hormonal changes

Men also experience periodic hormonal changes

Do men also experience periodic hormonal changes?

It is believed by many that only women tend to undergo hormonal fluctuations and mood swings but research has proved otherwise because for some interval time, men too tend to go through hormonal changes. Such modifications that are referred to by some experts as menstrual syndrome or male irritability syndrome (IMS). It may also influence mood, energy, ability to focus and even personal relations. In this paper I will make a scientific study of this phenomenon and consider its symptoms, causatives and measures involved.

Men’s menstrual sickness: fact or myth?

Menstrual sickness is a phrase used to describe periodic changes in men and these involve their hormonal displays that remain capable of influencing mood and physical performance. As opposed to the monthly and consistent menstrual period that women experience, the fluctuation of the hormones in men is not patterned to a specific time and occurs based on different factors, including stresses, lifestyle, diet, and age.

1- Symptoms of menstrual illness

Research has revealed that there are men who have their symptoms at specific days on the month or year which are:

  • Chronic fatigue: feeling lethargic and low in energy for no apparent reason;
  • Sleep disturbance: insomnia or excessive sleepiness for no apparent reason;
  • Mood changes: increased irritability, feelings of depression or decreased motivation;
  • Decreased concentration and memory: inability to concentrate on daily tasks or decreased mental performance;
  • Decreased libido: Changes in testosterone levels can affect libido.

2- Is this phenomenon real?

Other researchers claim that this happens as a result of testosterone and other male hormones fluctuations. The primary male hormone is testosterone which is instrumental in controlling the energy, mood and performance measures. Low testosterone in women may result in the premenstrual syndrome (PMS) like symptoms. Nonetheless, other experts assume Hormonal regular, But is modified more by the aspects of reading and environmental psychologically. Such symptoms, for instance, might be caused by chronic stress, sleep deprivation, and unbalanced diet.

3- How can you tell the difference between normal changes and hormonal problems?

  • When symptoms are not only observed periodically but also with certain intervals, they are most likely to be resulted in the hormonal changes.
  • In case it comes to be chronic, and living conditions are adversely impacted, an endocrinologist or psychologist should be consulted.
  • Venous blood tests performed to evaluate your testosterone levels and hormone levels may help.

Hormones on the Battlefield: Testosterone and Its Oscillations

Testosterone is among the most significant gender hormones that influence mood, energy, libido, and overall health of men. The production of this hormone varies, depending on time and even season. These ups and downs are easier to understand, and its knowledge can better cope with mood and physical changes.

1- Why do testosterone levels change?

Testosterone varies due to many reasons which include:

  • Aging: As we age, testosterone levels naturally decrease.
  • Circadian rhythm: Testosterone levels are higher in the mornings and decrease throughout the day.
  • Poor nutrition: Consuming too much sugar and unhealthy fats can disrupt testosterone production.
  • Lack of sleep: Insufficient sleep can upset hormonal balance and lower testosterone levels.
  • Stress and anxiety: Chronic stress can lower testosterone levels, causing fatigue and irritability.

2- Symptoms of low testosterone

Low testosterone can cause a variety of symptoms, including:

  • Decreased concentration and cognitive function;
  • Decreased motivation and feelings of depression;
  • Weight gain and loss of muscle mass;
  • Decreased energy and constant feeling of fatigue;
  • Decreased libido and sexual dysfunction.

3- Is it beneficial to take testosterone supplements?

Severe cases of the deficiency may see the doctors prescribing to the patient testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) in men. However, the uncontrolled use of testosterone supplement can cause side effects, such as the risk of having heart diseases, a reduction of natural testosterone levels, and metabolic disorders.

Scientific Strategies for Controlling Hormonal Changes

Men may experience severe mood changes, a drop in energy, and impaired everyday performance due to the changes in hormones. On a positive note, these changes can be controlled by adopting lifestyle changes and adhering to the scientific suggestions, thus minimizing their adverse outcomes.

1- Healthy and balanced eating

Hormone levels such as testosterone are directly affected by diet. The balance of hormones can be assisted through some food:

  • Zinc-rich foods: Red meat, nuts (walnuts, almonds), eggs, and legumes play an important role in testosterone production.
  • Healthy fats: Olive oil, avocados, nuts, and fatty fish (such as salmon) help maintain hormonal balance.
  • Vitamin D: Sunlight, eggs, and dairy products are good sources of this vitamin, which plays a role in regulating testosterone.
  • Avoid refined sugars and processed foods: These substances can lead to weight gain and low testosterone.

2- Exercise and physical activity

One of the best methods of balancing the hormones and minimizing the impact of testosterone changes is exercising:

  • Resistance training (weightlifting): This type of exercise naturally increases testosterone.
  • Aerobic exercise: Running, swimming, and cycling can reduce stress and help with hormonal balance.

3- Adequate and high-quality sleep

Sufficient and routine sleeping affects hormone balance considerably. Sleep deprivation may cause low testosterone and stress. Conducting: To enhance sleep quality:

  • Keep the bedroom cool and dark.
  • Get between 7 and 9 hours of sleep a night.
  • Avoid blue light on your phone and TV before bed.

4- Avoiding alcohol and tobacco consumption

The influence of alcohol and tobacco on the levels of testosterone is very negative. By removing these substances, it is possible to restore the activity of the hormones and raise energy levels.

Frequently Asked Questions About Men’s Menstrual Sickness

This is the main organizational part where I will address the most frequently asked questions related to hormonal fluctuations in men and their consequences regarding the everyday life.

1- Do all men experience periodic hormonal fluctuations?

Yes, yet to different people it is more pronounced. The changes may be minor till there are changes in some men and the change in others can be more severe. These fluctuations depend, in part, on age, lifestyle, stress levels, and genetics.

2- How do I know if I have hormonal fluctuations?

In case you have observed mood swings and low energy, reduced sex drive, and inability to focus, you are likely to have changes in testosterone. A blood test will help in finding a more correct diagnosis by using your level of testosterone.

3- Can testosterone fluctuations affect social relationships?

Yes, low testosterone may provoke irritability, depression, and loss of interest, which, in turn, can spoil personal and professional relations. It will be more beneficial to be aware of these changes and manage them and elevate the quality of relationships.

4- Are there any medications to treat this problem?

Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) may be suggested by physicians in certain courses. Yet, this method is appropriate only to those individuals who have a severe lack of testosterone. The most desirable way of managing these fluctuations is through lifestyle changes.

5- Are hormonal changes dangerous in men?

These alterations are normal in majority of the cases and they are not dangerous. Nevertheless, when the symptoms begin to be serious and to deteriorate the quality of life, one should visit a doctor.

6- How can I explain this problem to my spouse or family?

By talking about this issue clearly and making people aware of it, one will be able to understand people and support them better. One should utilize valid scientific materials and follow them in this field.

Final Thoughts

Studying the changes in hormones in a man is one of the ways to achieving physical and psychological wellness. These changes may be tough, but with a careful mind and lifestyle control and healthy practices, the impact will be reduced. When you sense that these changes have influenced your quality of life, it is necessary to address to your doctor who could contribute to making a more correct diagnosis and offer adequate solutions. The greatest point is that the body is the dynamic and variable system and with appropriate care one can expect the best performance out of the body. It is, therefore, an effective step to take today to improve or maintain your health, which involves making positive changes.

Resources

The irritable male syndrome

Testosterone and depression in men

Testosterone, mood, behaviour and quality of life

Proper nutrition for heart valve dilation

Proper nutrition for heart valve dilation

When the heart no longer beats silently…

It takes something to go wrong before we all can hear our heartbeat. The regular, unassuming beat that relentlessly strives to keep us alive from the moment of birth until our last breath. but one day you may pant in the midst of a common ascent of stairs, or the heart begins to beat over the outside of your chest when you sleep. What diagnosis are you the Doctor making? Your heart valve has a slight dilatation…Something which on the title page, perhaps, scares you, but take my word; that is a mere shadow, the reality of which is fairly controllable, provided that we can come to terms with it, acknowledge it, and most important, feed it in a social way, or, as it were, a friend, not an enemy. When you go through such a diagnosis or it happens with someone you love, the good news is you can still do a lot of things in your hands, even when you have reviewed a single food each daily, even these little choices at the table. You would not be expected to plunge into the language of medicine in this article. I need to know I can take your hand, explain in easy and scientific words what dilation of the heart valve is and how to make your heart feel good like a true friend through nutrition.

What is dilation of the heart valve and why is it important?

We have 4 valves in our hearts that are actually the doors of entry and exit of the blood, we put them just like a bank automatic door which would open and close when there is a stand that the blood should go round. Suppose at this moment that one of these doors is loose, and does not close quite well. Each time the heart attempts to drive the blood through the pipes, some of the blood would work its way back. It is referred to as dilation of heart valve or equivalently, valvular insufficiency. The most significant valves which are subjected to this malady:

  • Aortic valve
  • Mitral valve

Why should we be worried?

Because this backflow of blood causes the heart to work harder and harder to compensate, this means more strain on the heart muscle, an enlarged heart, premature fatigue, shortness of breath, and if left untreated, heart failure in the long term.

Common symptoms of dilated heart valves:

  • Premature fatigue
  • Reduced exercise tolerance
  • Feeling of heart palpitations or palpitations
  • Swelling of the legs (in advanced cases)
  • Shortness of breath, especially when active or lying down

Nutrition: A Close Friend or a Silent Enemy of the Heart?

Food is one of them either the thing that cures a body gradually and gracefully, or gradually and silently kills. When it comes about the dilated heart valves, our food does not cause any harm directly, neither produces miracles, as in a thoughtless assistant, it can ease the burden on the heart, heal the progress of the disease and even alleviate some symptoms.

Why is nutrition important?

The heart works harder when not properly functioning through the valve. Now when it comes to unhealthy nutrition:

  • Gain weight
  • Raise our blood pressure
  • Increase blood lipids and inflammation in the body

But in reality, we have added injustice to an already stressed heart.

In contrast, proper nutrition can:

  • Keep blood pressure low
  • Prevent weight gain
  • Prevent fluid accumulation
  • Control the body’s sodium (salt) levels
  • Improves vascular and heart muscle function

What should we eat to make our hearts at ease?

In the case of dilated heart valves, one would always think of the medicine and the examination room probably first. The fact is that one of the most significant prescriptions is written not in the doctor office but in your kitchen.

1- Green leafy vegetables, potassium frontline soldiers

The vegetables which can aid in even balancing your blood pressure are spinach, beet leaves, lettuce, parsley, dill, and coriander since most of them contain a lot of potassium and little sodium. The natural anti-salt of the body is potassium. The prominent appearance of these vegetables on the table implies a chance of resting the worn-out heart.

2- Whole grains, a clean fuel for the heart

Some of the types of cereal grains include whole-grain bread, oats, brown rice, and whole wheat that unlike refined grains, do not increase the blood sugar index. They contain a lot of fiber and nutrients that reduce cholesterol and preserve the health of the vascular system.

3- Fatty Fish: Life Oil for the Heart

High doses of omega-3 fatty acids are found in cold-water fishlike trout, salmon, and tuna (not canned). These helpful fats lower inflammation, blood clotting processes and can ease the additional load to the heart.

4- Legumes: Plant-based, low-cost and beneficial protein

Lentils, chickpeas, red beans and pinto are high in fiber, plant protein, and B vitamins. They are a healthy substitute with those of very high in fat meats and enjoy a sense of long-lasting fullness without strain on the heart.

5- Healthy Oils: Fats to Love

Extra virgin olive oil, natural sesame oil, avocado oil, and even a small amount of walnut or tree almond oil are healthy sources of fat. These fats, if used in the right amounts, help lower bad cholesterol (LDL) and in turn raise good fat (HDL).

6- Nuts and Seeds: Smart Snacks

Nuts that include almonds, walnuts, raw and unsalted pistachios are full of healthy fats, antioxidants, and vitamins. Sesame, flaxseeds, and sherbet seeds have also properties of anti –inflammatory with promoting vascular health.

7- Low-sugar, antioxidant fruits

Pomegranates, plums, apples, blueberries, and strawberries are not only the natural sugars of life, but they are also high in antioxidant compounds that fix broken tissue and thwart oxidative processes in the veins.

What should we eat less or give up altogether?

Just like food can hold healing properties, but if we do not choose wisely, it does not become as poison behind a disguise. Especially when it comes to a heart which is fighting a dilated valve.

1- Salt: The Silent Enemy

The high content of food leads to retention of water by the body and high blood pressure. This puts a bigger load on the heart. Fully eliminating use of unnecessary table salt using natural flavors as lemon juice, orange, sumac, and milder spices option to lower vent load is costless and affects methodology.

2- Processed foods, good-looking traps

Sausages, sausages, canned products, nutrient-lose foods, chips and puffs contain salt, Trans fats, preservatives and synthetic compounds. These pollutants cause inflammation, increase blood lipids and pose a risk of heart failure.

3- Fatty red meat, little by little, not completely eliminated

The high fat mutton, hearts and kidneys, kale pacha and preserved meat to consumed spices against in the quantity and in control. If you enjoy eating red meat, choose lean veal or lean thighs, and serve with the likes of cooked and/or steamed vegetables.

4- Simple sweets and sugars

Carbonated drinks, candy, mass-produced cakes, jam, and factory chocolate raise blood sugar and inflammation and store fats in the belly. These compounds indirectly put pressure on the functioning of the heart by making the body less sensitive to insulin.

5- Trans and Saturated Fats

The greater sources of these fats include margarine, solid vegetable oil, breakfast cream, lots of animal butter and eating of fried foods. Frying should be avoided and in place of frying either steamed, grilled or boiled food should be used.

6- Carbonated, energy and alcoholic beverages

These drinks are not only nutritionally devoid, but may also lead to unstable heart and valves functionality due to higher kidneys load, more sugar, and fewer potassium levels in the body.

Iranian Eating Habits That Can Be Useful, and Those That Don’t!

Food culture of we Iranians is a treasure trove of good and bad habits. Specifically, it has made some of them show good heart over the years, and some not knowing it, have hurt and sickened it gradually.

1- Habits to be maintained or strengthened:

  • Consumption of vegetable stews with low oil: The foods which have a high nutritional value and can be consumed in case they are cooked using low-fat meat and they are not fried, include Ghormeh sabzi stew and fresh vegetables, okra stew, and low-fat Fesenjan.
  • Broth with lean meat and no tail: It may be a healthy and traditional meal in case the tail is removed and additional legumes are used in it.
  • Using vegetables and low-salt homemade buttermilk: This Iranian compound is a natural potassium and calcium source as well as anti-bloating.
  • Habit of whole-grain Sangak and Barbari bread: As long as it is fresh, low-salt and whole-grain, traditional breads are far more nutritious in comparison to fancy or white lavash breads.

2- And the habits that we need to reconsider:

  • Too much frying foods in too much oil: The conduction of stuffing, cocoa, cutlets and even stewed vegetables can flood the heart when it swims through oil. The best thing is to compromise with a gentle roasting or a low-smothered heat.
  • Tendency to salty foods: Excesses in pickles, salted cheese, highly salted factory buttermilk, and salted olives are among the foods that should be reduced and/or substituted with low-salt homemade.
  • Excessive consumption of the bottom of the pot: When this is a regular, thick, and greasy flavor on the table, it will be converted into a risk factor of extinguishing. One is even better advised to make it a leisure activity.

Herbal Supplements and Medicines: Yes or No?

A lot of people are trying to find a natural means to facilitate the treatment, and this is what they refer to when they hear about dilated heart valves Herbal supplements and remedies are never in shortage. However, before I enter this spirit I must first clarify exactly where science and folklore begin and end.

1- Supplements that may be helpful (with a doctor’s opinion)

  • Omega-3: It reduces triglycerides, improves vascular functioning and is one of the most commonly used supplements prescribed in patients with heart conditions given its anti-inflammatory effects.
  • Coenzyme (Q10): The substance is significant in energy production in heart cells. Others have indicated that its frequent use can lower tiredness and enhance the quality of life among persons with heart problems.
  • Magnesium: Abnormalities of the heart rhythm and hypertension have been attributed to magnesium deficiency. Supplements of magnesium may help, particularly in people eating a low-magnesium diet.
  • Vitamin D:  Cases of vitamin D deficiency may also be linked to chronic inflammation as well as weakening of the heart muscles. The recommendation is to have the amounts of this vitamin examined during a blood test and, where appropriate, to take a supplement.

2- Herbal Medicines: A Narrow Road Between Benefit and Risk

During the studies, some of the medicinal plants like hawthorn, garlic, ginger or turmeric have reported possession of the cardiac properties. However, the risk is that certain of these plants could:

  • Cause heart rate fluctuations
  • Interfere with heart medications
  • Increase or decrease the effect of anticoagulants or blood pressure

Thus, it is essential to defer medical consultations with either a doctor or a nutritionist who will be aware of your situation before consuming any herbal medication or special tea.

Simple Meal Plan Example for a Day

Coming up with a daily menu plan will enable the patients to understand how to apply the general recommendations in practice. In this case, I will give you an example of an easy everyday diet:

Breakfast

  • A glass of low-fat milk
  • Fresh and whole-grain bread (1 palm)
  • Eating vegetables (mint, basil, radishes, watercress)
  • 1 boiled or half-boiled egg with low olive oil
  • Low-salt cheese or homemade cheese with chopped walnuts (1 tablespoon)

Morning snack

  • 5 raw almonds or walnuts
  • 1 small apple or pomegranate

Lunch

  • Low-salt and homemade buttermilk (without gas)
  • Seasonal salad with lemon juice and olive oil
  • Brown rice or mixed with lentils (low-oil lentil pilaf)
  • Okra stew with low-fat veal or chicken breast

Evening snack

  • A glass of diluted barberry juice or pale green tea
  • 2 whole-grain biscuits or a palm of bread and cheese

Dinner

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil on food
  • Barley soup or noodle soup without curd and a lot of oil
  • A plate of cooked or steamed herbs (carrots, squash, broccoli)

Before bed

  • A glass of warm, low-fat milk or sedative brew (provided there are no drug interactions)

This sample regimen is not rigid and can be refined by the dietitian using age, activity level and medications, as well as the overall condition of the patient in order to fine tune it.

Final Thoughts

The diagnosis of a dilated heart valve can be frightening at first but according to reality many patients with small yet consistent changes in the lifestyle can lead a normal, active and high quality life over several years after such diagnosis. In this direction, nutrition is not only a peripheral recommendation but one of the main tools. Correct food choices will help to decrease the workload of the heart, slow the progression of the disease, as well as the necessity of postponing more radical methods of treatment. There is good news in that there is no need of austerity in dietary changes. We do not need to buy the health at the expense of taste. The Iranian food culture is rich in nutritious, genuine and tasty foods that may make the life full of living flavor when utilized in the right ways. Remember it is a walk not a run and gradually as you tackle the recovery over time you find your heart beating with less love as each step completes. Discover your heart, and then it will beat with your heart and soul a few years.

Resources

21 Foods That Can Save Your Heart

Mitral valve prolapse: What to avoid and more

A Heart-Healthy Diet for Cardiovascular Disease Prevention