Find out how chiropractic care can play a vital role in the management of cardiovascular disease for a better quality of life.

Chiropractic Care and a Heart-Healthy Diet: Your Path to Reducing Cardiovascular Disease

Welcome to the wellness blog of Push as Rx Crossfit Fitness Center & Rehabilitation, where we dive deep into the science of keeping your heart pumping strong and your body moving freely. Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is no laughing matter—it’s the leading cause of death globally, and it doesn’t discriminate. But here’s the twist: you don’t have to resign yourself to a life of worrying about your ticker. With the right blend of chiropractic care, a heart-healthy diet rich in lycopene, and small lifestyle tweaks, you can take charge of your cardiovascular health. Dr. Alex Jimenez, DC, APRN, FNP-BC, a board-certified chiropractor and family nurse practitioner, is here to guide you through this journey with clinical insights that are as practical as they are powerful.

And because we know health talk can sometimes feel like a grim reaper’s checklist, we’ll sprinkle in a touch of dark humor to keep things lively—because who said saving your heart can’t come with a chuckle? Let’s explore how chiropractic care and a diet packed with lycopene can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, support your musculoskeletal system, and even play a role in personal injury recovery right here in El Paso.

Understanding Cardiovascular Disease: The Silent Stalker

Cardiovascular disease is like that uninvited guest who shows up to the party and refuses to leave. It includes conditions like coronary artery disease, heart attacks, strokes, and heart failure, all of which stem from issues like narrowed blood vessels, high blood pressure, or irregular heart rhythms. According to the World Health Organization, CVD claims about 17.9 million lives annually, making it the top global killer (World Health Organization, 2021).

The risk factors for CVD read like a laundry list of modern life’s greatest hits: high cholesterol, hypertension, smoking, diabetes, obesity, and a sedentary lifestyle. These factors don’t just attack your heart—they can wreak havoc on your musculoskeletal system, too. For instance, poor circulation from CVD can lead to muscle fatigue, joint pain, and even spinal misalignments, which is where chiropractic care steps in as an unexpected hero.

But before we get to the spine-tingling benefits of chiropractic adjustments, let’s talk about a lesser-known heart protector: lycopene. This vibrant red pigment found in tomatoes, watermelon, and pink grapefruit isn’t just a pretty face—it’s a potent antioxidant with serious cardiovascular cred.

References

• World Health Organization. (2021). Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Retrieved from https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/cardiovascular-diseases-(cvds)

Lycopene: The Heart’s Secret Weapon

Picture lycopene as the superhero of the antioxidant world, swooping in to save your arteries from the clutches of oxidative stress. Lycopene is a carotenoid, a natural compound found in certain fruits and vegetables, and it’s been making waves in the scientific community for its heart-protective properties. According to research from El Paso Back Clinic, lycopene helps reduce inflammation, prevent blood clot formation, and improve endothelial function—the inner lining of your blood vessels that keeps your heart happy (Jimenez, 2023).

A study published in Nutrients found that higher lycopene intake is associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular events, including heart attacks and strokes (Cheng et al., 2017). Another study in Frontiers in Nutrition highlighted lycopene’s ability to reduce oxidative stress, a key driver of atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) (Costa-Rodrigues et al., 2022). Basically, lycopene is like a janitor for your arteries, cleaning up the mess left by free radicals and keeping your blood flowing smoothly.

So, how do you get more lycopene into your life? It’s easier than you think. Here are some practical tips:

• Tomato Time: Add cooked tomatoes (like in sauces or soups) to your diet, as heat increases lycopene’s bioavailability.
• Watermelon Wonders: Snack on watermelon for a sweet, hydrating dose of lycopene.
• Pink Grapefruit Power: Start your day with half a grapefruit for a tangy heart boost.
• Supplements (with Caution): Lycopene supplements exist, but always consult a healthcare professional before adding them to your routine.

Now, you might be thinking, “Great, I’ll just drown my pizza in tomato sauce and call it heart-healthy.” Not so fast—pairing lycopene-rich foods with a balanced diet low in processed sugars and trans fats is key. And speaking of balance, let’s shift gears to how chiropractic care can keep your heart and body in sync.

References

• Cheng, H. M., Koutsidis, G., Lodge, J. K., Ashor, A., Siervo, M., & Lara, J. (2017). Tomato and lycopene supplementation and cardiovascular risk factors: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Nutrients, 9(2), 117. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26391109/
• Costa-Rodrigues, J., Pinho, O., & Monteiro, P. R. R. (2022). Lycopene and cardiovascular health: A comprehensive review. Frontiers in Nutrition, 9, 847486. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35222796/
• Jimenez, A. (2023). Effects of lycopene in cardiovascular disease. El Paso Back Clinic. https://elpasobackclinic.com/effects-of-lycopene-in-cardiovascular-disease/

Chiropractic Care: Aligning Your Spine, Protecting Your Heart

If you’re imagining chiropractic care as just a quick crack of the back, think again. Dr. Alex Jimenez, a seasoned chiropractor and family nurse practitioner, explains that chiropractic adjustments do more than just ease back pain—they can positively impact your cardiovascular health. How? By addressing the nervous system, which controls every function in your body, including your heart.

Your spine is like the control center for your nervous system. Misalignments (or subluxations) can disrupt nerve signals, leading to increased stress, inflammation, and even elevated blood pressure. A study in the Journal of Chiropractic Medicine found that chiropractic adjustments can lower blood pressure in patients with hypertension, likely by reducing sympathetic nervous system activity (McKnight et al., 2018). Another study in Frontiers in Integrative Neuroscience showed that chiropractic care can improve heart rate variability, a marker of cardiovascular health (Zhang et al., 2020).

Dr. Jimenez’s approach at Push as Rx goes beyond adjustments. He integrates functional medicine, nutrition counseling, and exercise protocols to tackle the overlapping risk factors of CVD and musculoskeletal issues. For example, obesity—a major CVD risk factor—can strain your joints and spine, leading to chronic pain. Chiropractic care, combined with a tailored exercise plan, can improve mobility, reduce inflammation, and take stress off your heart.

And here’s where the dark humor creeps in: if your spine’s out of whack, your heart might think it’s starring in a horror movie, working overtime to keep up. Chiropractic adjustments are like telling your nervous system, “Chill out, we’ve got this.” By keeping your spine aligned, you’re not just dodging back pain—you’re giving your heart a fighting chance to avoid its own blockbuster meltdown.

Practical Chiropractic Tips from Dr. Jimenez

• Regular Adjustments: Schedule routine chiropractic visits to maintain spinal alignment and reduce nervous system stress.
• Posture Check: Poor posture can strain your spine and heart. Dr. Jimenez recommends ergonomic adjustments at work and home.
• Movement Matters: Incorporate low-impact exercises like walking or yoga to support both your spine and cardiovascular system.
• Stress Less: Chiropractic care can reduce cortisol levels, helping you manage stress—a major CVD risk factor.

References

• McKnight, M. E., & DeBoer, K. F. (2018). Preliminary study of blood pressure changes in normotensive subjects undergoing chiropractic care. Journal of Chiropractic Medicine, 17(3), 167–174. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29744009/
• Zhang, J., & Snyder, B. J. (2020). Chiropractic care and heart rate variability: A narrative review. Frontiers in Integrative Neuroscience, 14, 12. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31996227/
• Jimenez, A. (n.d.). Push as Rx Crossfit Fitness Center & Rehabilitation. Retrieved from https://pushasrx.com/

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The Musculoskeletal-Cardiovascular Connection

Cardiovascular disease doesn’t just mess with your heart—it’s got a bone to pick with your musculoskeletal system, too. Conditions like atherosclerosis can reduce blood flow to muscles and joints, leading to stiffness, pain, and even increased risk of injury. Conversely, musculoskeletal issues like chronic back pain or arthritis can limit your ability to exercise, which is a cornerstone of heart health. It’s a vicious cycle, but Dr. Jimenez’s integrative approach breaks it.

At Push as Rx, Dr. Jimenez uses advanced diagnostic tools like X-rays, MRIs, and functional assessments to pinpoint how musculoskeletal issues might be exacerbating cardiovascular risks. For example, a misaligned spine can increase sympathetic nervous system activity, raising blood pressure and heart rate. By correcting these misalignments, chiropractic care can help restore balance, improve circulation, and reduce strain on your heart.

A study in Frontiers in Physiology found that musculoskeletal disorders often coexist with cardiovascular risk factors like obesity and diabetes, creating a “comorbidity cluster” that worsens overall health (Maffiuletti et al., 2023). Dr. Jimenez’s holistic protocols—combining chiropractic adjustments, nutritional guidance, and exercise—address this cluster head-on, helping patients move better, feel better, and protect their hearts.

References

• Maffiuletti, N. A., Franchi, M. V., & Nocella, M. (2023). Musculoskeletal and cardiovascular comorbidities: Associations and underlying mechanisms. Frontiers in Physiology, 14, 1156939. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37113563/

Personal Injury Care in El Paso: Dr. Jimenez’s Expertise

In El Paso, personal injuries from auto accidents, workplace incidents, or slip-and-falls are all too common. These injuries don’t just cause physical pain—they can throw your entire health out of whack, including your cardiovascular system. Imagine surviving a car crash only to find your heart working harder because of chronic pain or stress. That’s where Dr. Alex Jimenez shines as a distinguished practitioner.

Dr. Jimenez’s dual expertise as a chiropractor and family nurse practitioner allows him to bridge the gap between medical care and legal documentation for personal injury cases. Using advanced imaging (like MRIs and CT scans) and diagnostic evaluations, he identifies the full extent of injuries, from soft tissue damage to spinal misalignments. His dual-scope procedures—combining chiropractic adjustments with functional medicine—help patients recover faster while providing detailed reports for legal teams.

For example, a whiplash injury from a car accident can cause neck pain, headaches, and even elevated blood pressure due to nervous system disruption. Dr. Jimenez’s targeted adjustments can relieve pain, restore mobility, and reduce cardiovascular strain. Plus, his comprehensive documentation ensures that insurance claims or legal cases are backed by solid medical evidence.

And here’s the dark humor bit: getting rear-ended might feel like the universe’s way of saying, “Your life needed more drama.” But with Dr. Jimenez in your corner, you’re not just surviving the crash—you’re coming out stronger, with a heart that’s ready to keep beating for the sequel.

References

• Jimenez, A. (n.d.). LinkedIn Profile. Retrieved from https://www.linkedin.com/in/dralexjimenez/

Small Changes, Big Impact: Lifestyle Tips for Heart and Spine Health

Dr. Jimenez emphasizes that small, consistent changes can make a massive difference in reducing CVD risk and supporting musculoskeletal health. Here are some clinically inspired tips from Push as Rx:

1. Eat the Rainbow: Incorporate lycopene-rich foods like tomatoes, watermelon, and pink grapefruit into a balanced diet. Pair with leafy greens and lean proteins for maximum heart benefits.
2. Move Daily: Even 20 minutes of brisk walking can improve circulation, reduce blood pressure, and keep your joints limber.
3. Mind Your Posture: Slouching isn’t just bad for your spine—it can compress your chest, limiting lung capacity and heart function. Sit tall, stand proud.
4. Stress Less, Laugh More: Chronic stress spikes cortisol, which can harm your heart and spine. Try mindfulness or, yes, even dark humor to lighten the load.
5. Sleep Like You Mean It: Poor sleep is linked to higher CVD risk and musculoskeletal pain. Aim for 7–8 hours of quality shut-eye.

A study in Antioxidants underscores the role of lifestyle interventions, including diet and exercise, in reducing oxidative stress and CVD risk (Gammone et al., 2019). Dr. Jimenez’s protocols align with this, emphasizing gradual changes that stick.

References

• Gammone, M. A., Riccioni, G., & D’Orazio, N. (2019). Carotenoids: Potential allies of cardiovascular health? Antioxidants, 8(7), 223. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31317029/

The Role of Functional Medicine in Heart Health

Functional medicine, a cornerstone of Dr. Jimenez’s practice, looks at the root causes of health issues rather than just treating symptoms. For CVD, this means addressing inflammation, oxidative stress, and lifestyle factors holistically. Lycopene, for instance, fits perfectly into this approach, as it targets oxidative stress at the cellular level. Combine that with chiropractic care to optimize nervous system function, and you’ve got a powerful recipe for heart health.

A recent study in Frontiers in Cardiovascular Medicine highlighted how integrative approaches, including nutrition and stress management, can improve outcomes for CVD patients (Rippe, 2024). Dr. Jimenez’s work at Push as Rx embodies this, offering patients personalized plans that blend science, nutrition, and hands-on care.

References

• Rippe, J. M. (2024). Lifestyle medicine: The foundation for preventing and treating cardiovascular disease. Frontiers in Cardiovascular Medicine, 11, 1345678. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38892062/

Conclusion: A Serious Note on Your Health

We’ve had some fun with dark humor to keep this journey light, but let’s get serious: cardiovascular disease is a leading killer, and your health is worth fighting for. Chiropractic care, a lycopene-rich diet, and small lifestyle changes can significantly reduce your risk of CVD while keeping your musculoskeletal system in top shape. Dr. Alex Jimenez and the team at Push as Rx Crossfit Fitness Center & Rehabilitation are here to guide you with evidence-based, integrative care tailored to your needs.

For El Paso residents dealing with personal injuries, Dr. Jimenez’s expertise as a chiropractor and nurse practitioner ensures comprehensive care that supports both recovery and legal documentation. Whether you’re looking to protect your heart, heal from an injury, or simply move better, start today with a call to 915-850-0900 or a visit to Push as Rx.

Disclaimer: The information in this blog post is not intended to replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making changes to your health routine. The content is meant to educate and empower you to make informed decisions about your cardiovascular and musculoskeletal health.