Pets aren t for everyone, but if you are considering the addition of a pet to your household, pick one that fits your preferences and lifestyle. It doesn t have to be a cat or dog. One large research study showed that birds and fish can offer the same type of health benefits. Only 15 percent of women who could benefit from a cardiac rehabilitation program participate in one, according to the April issue of Mayo Clinic Women s HealthSource. Cardiac rehabilitation is recommended for people who have had a heart attack or have had bypass surgery or other treatment for heart disease.
Programs generally concentrate on lifestyle changes including diet and exercise.
Research shows that changes made as a result of cardiac rehabilitation programs substantially reduce the risk of another heart attack, and women can benefit just as much as men. The reasons more women don t participate in cardiac rehabilitation programs aren t clear. It could be lack of a referral, lack of motivation or inability to get to a program. Generally, cardiac rehabilitation services are covered by insurance. To help people lose weight and keep it off, Mayo Clinic dietitians and doctors have developed a new healthy weight food pyramid.