Good timing can optimize strategies for cardiovascular protection.

If you ever find it hard to get up in the morning, imagine what your heart goes through.

Starting at about 4 a.m., levels of stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol began rising toward their highest background levels of the day. Like biological alarm clocks, these chemical signals boost blood pressure after its hours-long nighttime dip. As dawn approaches, your heart begins working harder, pumping a few extra beats per minute. Your whole cardiovascular system has to adjust as you stand for the first time. Vessels contract to help overcome gravity’s pull and ensure an ample supply of blood to the brain so you can take your first steps without stumbling.…

Subscribers:
View the Full Story

Non-subscribers:
Purchase Selection or begin your FREE 14-day trial subscription to heart-advisor.com