3 Thai Methods to Enhance Heart Health and Prevent Heart Disease and Stroke

The significance of heart health and the prevention of heart disease is being highlighted globally on World Heart Day, observed every September 29th. Dr. Kwanchai Wisitthanon, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine, emphasized the importance of taking proactive steps to combat heart disease, which remains a significant global public health concern. Factors contributing to cardiovascular diseases encompass age, gender, family history, blood pressure, blood sugar levels, obesity, and blood lipid levels. These factors can lead to a loss of elasticity in blood vessel walls, potentially causing blockages, narrowing, rupture, and, consequently, heart disease, stroke, and other chronic non-communicable diseases. 

The Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine recommends three traditional Thai approaches to maintaining heart health: 

Thai cuisine is renowned for its use of herbs that possess fat-reducing properties. Ingredients commonly found in Thai dishes, such as garlic, galangal, lemongrass, shallots, pepper, turmeric, and ginger, are rich in essential oils with antioxidant effects. These herbs aid in digestion, alleviate bloating and flatulence, and enhance energy metabolism. Their consumption can help control fat and blood sugar levels, thereby fortifying cardiovascular health. Examples of dishes that incorporate these herbs include sour curry, fish kidney curry, jungle curry, liang curry, steamed fish with lemon, turmeric-boiled chicken, ginger chili paste, keika chili paste, and mackerel chili paste. Reducing the consumption of fatty foods, such as fried items and dishes with excessive coconut milk, is also recommended. 

Explore Traditional Thai Medicine: Traditional Thai medicine, including remedies like Triphala medicine (comprising Thai samosa, Phipek samosa, and Makhampom saplings), is a valuable resource. These treatments possess antioxidant properties and can stimulate the body's immune system while helping reduce blood fat levels, a significant contributor to heart disease. Yahom Thepchit, another traditional remedy, offers relief from dizziness and nourishes the heart. It also balances the wind element, impacting the functions of the fire and water elements, thus improving blood circulation, mental clarity, and emotional well-being. 

Engage in Thai-style Exercise: Embrace Rishi Datton, a Thai physical exercise posture that enhances alertness and promotes smooth blood and air circulation. This practice combines physical exertion with focused breathing and meditation, effectively calming the mind. It can be incorporated into various daily routines and is accessible through the Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine's YouTube channel. 

Individuals seeking guidance on Thai traditional medicine or herbal remedies can consult Thai traditional medicine practitioners at government healthcare facilities nationwide. Additionally, they can contact the Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine directly via telephone at +662 149 5678 or through the Department's Line account: @DTAM. 

Taking these steps can contribute to maintaining heart health, reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke, and fostering overall well-being. 

Source: Thai News Bureau, PRD