The Cardiac Risk Reduction Clinic integrates medical and behavioral treatment of high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol, and diabetes, all of which, when treated, reduce the risk of serious health problems. In addition to the use of medications, there are non drug therapies that have been shown to be effective in controlling blood pressure, lipid values, and blood sugar, either when used alone or in combination with medication. In the Cardiac Risk Reduction Program, patients learn to lower their blood pressure and lipid values through exercise, elicitation of the relaxation response, diet and stress management.
Patients continue using medication as needed.
Elicit the relaxation response daily. Follow a diet low in fat, salt, cholesterol, and if necessary, low in calories. Follow an exercise program tailored to their individual physical capabilities. Recognize the sources of stress in their lives and the role that thoughts and attitudes play in healing. The relaxation response, a physical state of deep rest, is elicited by easily-learned mental focusing techniques, which bring about measurable physiological changes, including decreases in heart rate, metabolic rate and blood pressure.