Best Practices for a Healthy Heart

May 7, 2012
Back in 2001 when cardiologist Samaan started work on her book, she says, patients needed answers to their questions about the effects of stress, hormones, medications, diet, exercise, vitamins, and alternative therapies on cardiac health. Concentrating on prevention, Samaan divides a narrower range of material than those questions cover into seven sections—getting cholesterol, triglyceride, and other critical blood levels in line; identifying a heart-healthy diet; eliminating bad habits like smoking; developing an exercise routine; creating a nurturing lifestyle; choosing from among myriad medications and supplements; and dealing with hormonal changes in men and women—pinning the whole on the concept of “best practices” (i.e., advice based on up-to-the-minute research and clinical evidence). She efficiently tackles complex subjects (e.g., stress, alternative therapies, and childhood risks) as well as myths contributing to the epidemic of deaths each year from heart attacks. While Samaan’s analyses offer depth and substance, many of her lists seem like generic guidelines posted in a physician’s office. But her passion is evident in the real-life stories she relates, and readers will be drawn by her personal commitment, fueled by the loss of many family members, to conquer a largely preventable disease. Agent, Linda Konner.