Heart Matters RSS Feedhttps://www.bhf.org.uk/rss/heart-mattersHeart Matters RSS Feeden{C61C6FDF-1F04-48B3-9D88-BE3966BDCDA9}https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/medical/tests/bmi-chartBMI chart: what is my body mass index?Find out how to calculate your body mass index (BMI) and what a healthy BMI is with our BMI chart and BMI tracker you can download and print.Tue, 31 Mar 2026 00:00:00 Zhttps://www.bhf.org.uk//-/media/images/information-support/heart-matters/2026/march/medical/bmi-chart/bmi-chart-mockup-ssnoexp-800x600.jpg?rev=1d6602f586064a3cb25080452d7731e7https://www.bhf.org.uk/The BMI calculator and tracker printed out on a table.{0DA59795-54AF-48C2-AA56-F2818E8A9192}https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/news/behind-the-headlines/statin-side-effectsStatin side effects – how many real ones are there?Find out why recent headlines say statins do not cause most of the 66 possible side effects listed in medicine package leaflets, including weight gain, headaches and feeling sick.Mon, 16 Mar 2026 00:00:00 Zhttps://www.bhf.org.uk//-/media/images/information-support/heart-matters/2026/march/news/statins-side-effects/statins-pills-bth-atorvastatin-ssnoexp-800x600.jpg?rev=5c93c8ade3dc4a6cb1d64f25fee37ae7https://www.bhf.org.uk/A close up of white statin pills on a table.{75C988E8-898D-4D89-B5BA-F4C491D30EE3}https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/wellbeing/how-to-deal-with-depression-when-you-have-heart-problemsHow to deal with depression when you have heart problemsLearn what depression is, its symptoms, and why it matters for heart health. Find NHS treatment, self-help tips, and how to help someone with depression. Wed, 11 Mar 2026 17:14:00 Zhttps://www.bhf.org.uk//-/media/images/information-support/heart-matters/2026/march/wellbeing/how-to-deal-with-depression/hm_q3_spr26_depression_main.png?rev=a9dc1fb2ffd349fd8550e089084f2588https://www.bhf.org.uk/Illustration of a woman wearing a purple long-sleeved top and skirt and red ankle boots. She is in a dark room with swirling abstract lines, and is stepping through a door into a brighter landscape with sun and a meadow.{F17BA722-68A0-4414-A5C0-B52B23CE2654}https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/my-story/down-syndrome-congenital-heart-disease“Sara has never let her heart condition define her”Ann Kirby shares her daughter Sara's story of being born with Down's syndrome and congenital heart disease.Wed, 04 Mar 2026 00:00:00 Zhttps://www.bhf.org.uk//-/media/images/information-support/heart-matters/2026/febuary/real-life/sara-and-ann/ann-and-sara-800x600.jpg?rev=ad5958fc0d6f449cb3f83ef0d6eaaa13https://www.bhf.org.uk/Sara and Ann Kirby in their kitchen at home.{DF450144-56F1-4661-B17B-8A02ECD07856}https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/medical/how-can-we-prevent-heart-attackCan heart attacks be prevented?BHF's Chief Scientific and Medical Officer explains how a healthy lifestyle, medicines and the help of new science could help fewer people have heart attacks in the future.Tue, 03 Mar 2026 00:00:00 Zhttps://www.bhf.org.uk//-/media/images/information-support/heart-matters/2026/febuary/understand-health/prevent-heart-attacks/prevent-heart-attack-ben-aitken-800x600.jpg?rev=08731e2f0984481190b87553dd5bfed4https://www.bhf.org.uk/Ben Aitken sitting outside at a picnic table.{FFF151F4-864E-4564-8CDD-A6BE0BC94A8F}https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/research/causes-high-blood-pressureHigh blood pressure: how research is uncovering causes and treatmentsProfessor Ian Wilkinson reveals how scientific discoveries could change how we think about the causes of high blood pressure, its diagnosis and treatment.Thu, 26 Feb 2026 00:00:00 Zhttps://www.bhf.org.uk//-/media/images/information-support/heart-matters/2026/febuary/science/prof-wilkinson-bp-research/prof-ian-wilkinson-blood-pressure-research-800x600.jpg?rev=5af34edd439441b3b7b2c88fcde35eedhttps://www.bhf.org.uk/Professor Ian Wilkinson outside in front of a building.{A2CF8D84-AE97-45E3-92BC-4CFDF126F5EF}https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/nutrition/healthy-food-shopping-listHealthy food shopping list on a budgetBHF dietitian Dell Stanford shares how to plan a food shop list that’s good for your health and your wallet – whether you shop in store or online.Fri, 20 Feb 2026 09:03:00 Zhttps://www.bhf.org.uk//-/media/images/information-support/heart-matters/2026/febuary/eat-well/healthy-shopping-list/healthy-shopping-list_ss_noexp_800x600.jpg?rev=47e168d85d834de5998383ce5bb6ef61https://www.bhf.org.uk/Woman leaning over shopping trolley in a supermarket checking her shopping list.{99E1086F-F254-4209-9C94-1F19E9C123ED}https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/nutrition/ask-the-expert/baked-beans-good-for-youAre baked beans good for you?BHF Senior Dietitian Dell Stanford reveals baked beans calorie and nutrition content and suggests choosing reduced salt and sugar versions.Tue, 17 Feb 2026 00:00:00 Zhttps://www.bhf.org.uk//-/media/images/information-support/heart-matters/2026/febuary/eat-well/beans-on-toast/beans-on-toast-ssnoexp-800x600.jpg?rev=ae605152025147f199881f2a0a1a4d00https://www.bhf.org.uk/Two slices of toast with baked beans.{D9CF08FA-0C55-448B-B7C6-E5C922DB9BFC}https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/medical/ask-the-experts/calcification-of-arteriesWhat is calcification of the arteries, and how is it treated?Professor Catherine Shanahan (PhD) explains what coronary artery calcification means, how it’s tested, what your score means and what treatment involves.Tue, 13 Jan 2026 00:00:00 Zhttps://www.bhf.org.uk//-/media/images/information-support/heart-matters/2021/june-2021/medical/calcified_artery_620x400-ss-no-exp.jpg?rev=1f93eb890cb14ac394e62da22ac0a20dhttps://www.bhf.org.uk/Calcified artery{F4E3CB79-ADBC-4C06-983C-8AE4ACA163C4}https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/nutrition/35-easy-healthy-vegan-meal-recipes-to-try35 easy healthy vegan meal recipes to tryFind vegan recipes for dinners, soups, salads, and desserts like flapjacks – all given a healthy twist and nutrition information from BHF’s dietitians. Fri, 09 Jan 2026 10:09:00 Zhttps://www.bhf.org.uk//-/media/images/information-support/support/healthy-living/recipes-new/green-minestrone-soup_800x600.jpg?rev=829baaa03bed4be49789c1f70b3498f4https://www.bhf.org.uk/Green minestrone soup{A480F185-A662-44DD-85E5-91256772422C}https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/medical/intermittent-claudicationIntermittent claudication: painful legs and peripheral arterial diseaseBHF Senior Cardiac Nurse Regina Giblin explains ‘intermittent claudication’, the medical term for pain in the legs when walking. It is a sign of peripheral arterial disease (PAD), also known as peripheral vascular disease (PVD).Wed, 07 Jan 2026 00:00:00 Zhttps://www.bhf.org.uk//-/media/images/information-support/heart-matters/2026/january/understand-health/intermittent-claudication/intermittent-claudication-ssnoexp-800x600.jpg?rev=89c0b3fec30648bda69d90f6b053facdhttps://www.bhf.org.uk/A woman walking outside holding onto her calf in pain.{655E14E3-27A0-4AA6-88DB-69ECEA34AFB0}https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/news/behind-the-headlines/coming-off-mounjaroWhat happens when you stop taking Mounjaro?Find out more about research that shows most people regain weight and lose health benefits such as reduced blood pressure and cholesterol levels when they stop taking Mounjaro. Fri, 19 Dec 2025 00:00:00 Zhttps://www.bhf.org.uk//-/media/images/information-support/heart-matters/2025/december/news/stopping-mounjaro/coming-off-mounjaro-pen-ssnoexp-800x600.jpg?rev=cb8db687f58a447cb71dd17ce6f51e66https://www.bhf.org.uk/A close up of a Mounjaro weight loss injection pen.{870AD81D-0402-458D-9E18-DB3A6A34C8BB}https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/nutrition/worst-vegan-food-to-avoidWorst vegan foods you should avoid – and healthy alternativesHigh-protein vegan foods such as meat and fish alternatives and plant-based milks can be as unhealthy as animal-based versions. A BHF dietitian shares swaps. Thu, 18 Dec 2025 14:21:00 Zhttps://www.bhf.org.uk//-/media/images/information-support/heart-matters/2025/december/eat-well/worst-vegan-foods/worst-vegan-foods-woman-apple-vs-vegan-burger_ssnoexp_800x600.jpg?rev=bba472ee6e3b4d0ebe480d2c876f812ehttps://www.bhf.org.uk/A woman in a blue t-shirt choosing between an apple she is holding in one hand and a vegan burger she is holding in the other hand.{FF68A63F-ACC0-4766-B1BD-9AEFEDD6A254}https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/research/how-to-prevent-stroke-new-research-and-treatmentsHow to prevent stroke: new research and treatmentsStroke expert Professor Salman explains how research could help us treat and prevent strokes through healthier lifestyles and better medicines and surgeries.Thu, 18 Dec 2025 10:08:00 Zhttps://www.bhf.org.uk//-/media/images/professor-salman.jpg?rev=a5296cd86bea49f4b8f14c4e03e650a0https://www.bhf.org.uk/Stroke expert Professor Rustam Al-Shahi Salman standing in front of green artwork in the Department of Clinical Neurosciences in Edinburgh.{87431FF1-AAB5-40C6-BC38-B803A1E4C6A0}https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/news/behind-the-headlines/anti-depressants-and-heart-healthCan antidepressants affect your heart health?We examine recent media reports suggesting that certain antidepressants can negatively affect your heart health by altering heart rate, blood pressure, cholesterol and weight.Thu, 11 Dec 2025 12:09:00 Zhttps://www.bhf.org.uk//-/media/images/information-support/heart-matters/2025/september/understand-health/shutterstock_2084305762/shutterstock_2084305762-(1).jpg?rev=b5c2a2f7352f4ee2aa074501d5237b63https://www.bhf.org.uk/Woman taking tablets with glass of water sitting on sofa{5433F34D-DF6F-499A-90E0-0A5760254E37}https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/wellbeing/sleep-hygieneSleep hygiene: how poor quality sleep affects your heart Deputy CEO of The Sleep Charity, Lisa Artis, says quality sleep is essential for heart health and warns that everyday habits like irregular bedtimes and screen-time before bed can stop you getting the best rest. Wed, 10 Dec 2025 16:13:00 Zhttps://www.bhf.org.uk//-/media/images/information-support/heart-matters/2025/october/wellbeing/woman-in-bed-looking-at-screen-cant-sleep-800x600.jpg?rev=b1206322fd4e4d4980b5c667acc57969https://www.bhf.org.uk/A woman in bed looking at a phone screen.{D9D3FAC1-BE19-4FA5-8FCB-4FCA402CA668}https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/nutrition/healthy-winter-dinner-recipesHealthy winter recipes and dinner ideasDiscover 9 recipes for wholesome, healthy winter meals. Plus, practical, cost-saving tips for winter food, from bulking out soups to using frozen veg. Wed, 10 Dec 2025 12:46:00 Zhttps://www.bhf.org.uk//-/media/images/information-support/support/healthy-living/recipes-new/fish-pie-with-carrot-and-cauliflower-mash_800x600.jpg?rev=70d0da227e0d4a29b32dbb8900316fc9https://www.bhf.org.uk/Fish pie with carrot and cauliflower mash{BF9E6943-D6FB-4D17-B722-3A9C0ADDE69D}https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/wellbeing/willpower-top-9-tips9 tips to boost your willpowerDr Frank Ryan, a clinical psychologist, shares how small changes like developing a routine and giving yourself regular rewards can boost your willpower.Thu, 27 Nov 2025 11:00:00 Zhttps://www.bhf.org.uk//-/media/images/information-support/heart-matters/2025/october/wellbeing/man-and-woman-jogging-middleaged-ssnoexp-800x600.jpg?rev=39165d6e60ce4cfaae4168a898879189https://www.bhf.org.uk/A man and woman jogging in a park.{41A3BAB3-6630-49E4-839B-5FAA9499FBEB}https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/medical/ask-the-experts/swollen-anklesWhat causes swollen ankles and feet?Swollen ankles and feet can be caused by lifestyle factors, like eating too much salt and being inactive, and can also be a sign of heart failure. Find out more from our senior cardiac nurse.Wed, 26 Nov 2025 00:00:00 Zhttps://www.bhf.org.uk//-/media/images/information-support/heart-matters/2025/november/understand-health/swollen-ankles/swollen-ankles-ssnoexp-800x600_new.jpg?rev=00ff5363c60d428da81357737ec53237https://www.bhf.org.uk/Someone with swollen ankles putting on shoes.{6A2840A8-C71F-43F4-97D9-A85E5F2F4CF7}https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/nutrition/is-veganism-healthyIs veganism healthy? How to eat a healthy vegan dietVeganism can be healthy if you avoid too much salt, sugar and saturates and include nutrients like B12 and iron. Get tips from BHF dietitian Tracy Parker.Tue, 25 Nov 2025 14:24:00 Zhttps://www.bhf.org.uk//-/media/images/information-support/heart-matters/2020/december-2020/veganuary-ate/veganuary_buddha-bowl-620x400.jpg?rev=af0294aa017e4f8cab8e37ee13fb3df4https://www.bhf.org.uk/Buddha bowl of mixed vegetables including avocado, carrots and spinach.{CE6B27C0-3638-4FCD-AA78-14909B3A70A6}https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/my-story/roger-black-open-heart-surgeryOlympian Roger Black: Open heart surgery scared me but I'm gratefulBritish Olympian Roger Black talks about living with a bicuspid aortic valve and having open heart surgery to fix it.Mon, 17 Nov 2025 00:00:00 Zhttps://www.bhf.org.uk//-/media/images/information-support/heart-matters/2025/august/roger-black/roger-black-main-image.jpg?rev=8139bdb674534d3da316f39641ed2026https://www.bhf.org.uk/Roger Black Olympic athlete in his home{9EE81DB1-3A55-47F5-845C-448A09FDE009}https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/news/behind-the-headlines/acid-reflux-heart-attack-riskDoes acid reflux increase the risk of heart attack? A study links severe acid reflux to a 27% higher heart attack risk. We unpack the findings, media coverage, and what it means for your heart health. Thu, 13 Nov 2025 14:34:00 Zhttps://www.bhf.org.uk//-/media/images/information-support/heart-matters/2025/november/news/bth-acid-reflux-and-heart-attack-risk/bth_acid-reflux_hero_800x600_ssnoexp-(1).jpg?rev=9949c769c466455384078ed9c325f286https://www.bhf.org.uk/Image showing mid-section of a person's body wearing a grey top, with one hand on their stomach and the other hand holding plates, after eating some food.{7DA9D147-63C5-4F9A-B72D-BAD72D46D754}https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/my-story/allison-lawson-scadAllison Lawson: “I had a heart attack totally out of the blue at 51”Allison Lawson had a heart attack aged 51 caused by a rare condition called SCAD - spontaneous coronary artery dissection – which is caused by a tear in a blood vessel carrying blood to the heart. Thu, 13 Nov 2025 10:20:00 Zhttps://www.bhf.org.uk//-/media/images/information-support/heart-matters/2025/september/understand-health/allison-lawson-scad/allison-lawson-scad-story/allison-lawson-in-garden.jpg?rev=0494a820dd234cd399fa987b6f1decbbhttps://www.bhf.org.uk/SCAD patient Allison Lawson in garden holding a cup of tea{30FC199E-5709-4B78-A5FA-8A6D405A9FB0}https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/news/boost-heart-failure-nursingCall to boost heart failure nursing Urgent funding is needed to increase heart failure nurse numbers, education and expertise across NHS Scotland, finds a new review of services. Wed, 12 Nov 2025 14:20:00 Zhttps://www.bhf.org.uk//-/media/unassigned/nurse_and_olderwoman.jpg?rev=41ffef7e5f04453b81ff81c34cda6384https://www.bhf.org.uk/Nurse with arm round older woman.{9D381BDB-FE7E-4DCA-A2BC-D50D6304D5D8}https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/activity/compound-exercisesBest compound exercises to help you lose weightCardiac rehab expert Hara Markos explains how staying active can help you lose weight and demonstrates how to do compound exercises like squats, press ups and shoulder presses at home. Try them now.Wed, 12 Nov 2025 00:00:00 Zhttps://www.bhf.org.uk//-/media/images/information-support/heart-matters/2025/october/activity/weight-loss-exercises/compound-intro-brightened-noexp-800x600.jpg?rev=1acd987738e54cac958d8a5e2c77dcb0https://www.bhf.org.uk/Hara Markos and Nicola Hirschle holding weights for compound exercises.{A32FA6B2-3B33-42E2-BFD5-060E91100D9C}https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/news/behind-the-headlines/exercise-snackingCan ‘exercise snacking’ every day help you get fitter?Get the facts behind recent headlines that say adding a few short bursts of exercise to your day like stair climbing can boost your fitness and improve your heart health.Wed, 12 Nov 2025 00:00:00 Zhttps://www.bhf.org.uk//-/media/images/information-support/heart-matters/2025/november/news/exercise-snacks/exercise-snacks-stairs-ssnoexp-800x600.jpg?rev=19aef1a92c5b446dab8cb9a66bb8e20ehttps://www.bhf.org.uk/A woman climbing a flight of stairs at home.{00F640BE-B2CA-4900-BBF4-BFC2035F8346}https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/nutrition/healthy-stir-fry/healthy-stir-fry-sauces6 healthy stir-fry sauce recipesDietitian Mei Wan shares 6 delicious and healthy stir-fry sauces that will give your stir fries attitude, while looking after your heart.Fri, 24 Oct 2025 00:00:00 Zhttps://www.bhf.org.uk//-/media/images/information-support/heart-matters/2025/october/eat-well/stir-fry-sauces/mushroom-stir-fry-sauce-noexp-800x600.jpg?rev=7dd07a2b72604e3abc4d0a72d95cc494https://www.bhf.org.uk/Oyster mushroom and black pepper stir fry sauce in a bowl surrounded by ingredients.{DAEF1238-9275-4DB6-9187-CAE294A2EEAE}https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/news/behind-the-headlines/seed-oilsAre seed oils bad for you?We investigate claims that seed oils like sunflower, rapeseed and soyabean high in omega-6 fatty acids increase inflammation and the risk of cardiovascular disease. Discover BHF’s verdict. Thu, 23 Oct 2025 00:00:00 Zhttps://www.bhf.org.uk//-/media/images/information-support/heart-matters/2025/october/news/seed-oils-ssnoexp-800x600.jpg?rev=3f06354fdb0741e9b094247296268078https://www.bhf.org.uk/A row of bottles of different types of seed oils.{B2CDB031-4CEA-436C-B16D-7F681E5EC60D}https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/wellbeing/how-to-stay-motivated-in-winterHow to stay motivated in winterDr John Downey shares why motivation matters for heart health, how winter impacts it, and tips like goal-setting, tracking, and having a plan B. Wed, 22 Oct 2025 13:51:00 Zhttps://www.bhf.org.uk//-/media/images/information-support/heart-matters/2025/october/wellbeing/motivation-in-winter/motivation-in-winter_banner_800x400_ssnoexp.jpg?rev=525fecda026640138a60f5374f3ea281https://www.bhf.org.uk/A senior woman with short blonde hair wearing a red fleece under a black gilet, running on a grey winter day next to a river and some tower blocks.{9707D72C-0E07-473D-80F0-2C1AF3C8454A}https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/nutrition/healthy-stewsIs stew healthy?Stews can be high in salt and unhealthy fats. Dietitian Dr Tai Ibitoye (PhD) shares hacks for a healthy stew, from picking the right sides to leaner proteins.Wed, 22 Oct 2025 10:43:00 Zhttps://www.bhf.org.uk//-/media/images/information-support/heart-matters/2025/october/is-stew-healthy/is-stew-healthy_-800x600-ssnoexp.jpg?rev=7f6da23e018348b48d4fb6043bfbb025https://www.bhf.org.uk/A pot of beef stew on a wooden serving board{3523DBAC-728B-4B20-A7FD-24961F04774F}https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/medical/questions-to-ask-your-doctor9 essential questions to ask your doctorBHF Senior Cardiac Nurse, Regina Giblin, offers tips on what to ask during an NHS or private appointment with your GP, nurse or cardiologist, so you know what’s normal, what’s urgent and how to be proactive.Mon, 20 Oct 2025 12:09:00 Zhttps://www.bhf.org.uk//-/media/images/information-support/heart-matters/2025/september/understand-health/gp-questions/woman-gp-appointment.jpg?rev=f7cd7724334c4ce88cde5a0d2db50d56https://www.bhf.org.uk/Mature woman visiting her GP doctor NHS{0DB9BB2E-2BD8-4765-9EC3-58BC3FD8785A}https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/nutrition/ask-the-expert/coq10CoQ10 supplements: are there benefits for heart health?Senior BHF Dietitian Dell Stanford explains what is CoQ10 (Co-enzyme Q10), covering the evidence on supplements for people with heart failure or taking statins.Fri, 10 Oct 2025 00:00:00 Zhttps://www.bhf.org.uk//-/media/images/information-support/heart-matters/2025/october/eat-well/coq10/coq10-ssnoexp-800x600.jpg?rev=74dce45d5e674e92b273a513ca9eb54dhttps://www.bhf.org.uk/Two wooden blocks that say "Q" and "10".{ADF8CF76-8DF1-48CB-A772-B274C9A0E5C3}https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/nutrition/ask-the-expert/dark-chocolateDark chocolate benefits: is it healthy and good for you?BHF Senior Dietitian Dell Stanford examines claims around dark chocolate’s benefits and answers whether it’s good for weight loss, diabetes, and cholesterol.Fri, 10 Oct 2025 00:00:00 Zhttps://www.bhf.org.uk//-/media/images/information-support/heart-matters/2025/october/eat-well/dark-chocolate/dark-chocolate_ssnoexp-800x600.jpg?rev=0844979c553a4fca90dfc2fd8a238dbahttps://www.bhf.org.uk/A bowl of squares of dark chocolate.{0CEBC769-0882-48F6-A5F7-15D7A9A8C149}https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/research/ai-healthcareAI (artificial intelligence) in heart healthcareTop researcher Professor Fu Siong Ng explains how AI could revolutionise heart healthcare – from earlier diagnosis and risk prediction to personalised treatments.Fri, 10 Oct 2025 00:00:00 Zhttps://www.bhf.org.uk//-/media/images/information-support/heart-matters/2025/october/science/ai-healthcare/ai_healthcare_ablation_noexp_800x600.jpg?rev=dd20be87c12147b3965446a9e7cf96aehttps://www.bhf.org.uk/Professor Fu Siong Ng standing in front of a screen showing an ablation procedure.{D7C67507-BAB1-45FF-9EB5-169FFECD875D}https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/my-story/reduce-cholesterol-pulomaHow I reduced my cholesterol: Puloma’s storyPuloma shares how she reduced her cholesterol through small but consistent changes to her diet and lifestyle. She offers tips for others looking to do the same.Fri, 03 Oct 2025 14:34:00 Zhttps://www.bhf.org.uk//-/media/images/information-support/heart-matters/2025/september/real-life/puloma/puloma-yoga-noexp-800x600.jpg?rev=a0231f96eaa246d69b9c16f273372784https://www.bhf.org.uk/Puloma Kundu practising yoga at home.{BA1C5B38-86FA-4A1E-919D-816F87092376}https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/my-story/high-cholesterol-nigelHigh cholesterol: how Nigel tackled itNigel shares how he tackled his high cholesterol by changing his diet, exercising more and taking medicine. He gives tips to lower cholesterol.Fri, 03 Oct 2025 14:29:00 Zhttps://www.bhf.org.uk//-/media/images/information-support/heart-matters/2025/september/real-life/nigel/nigel_street-noexp-800x600.jpg?rev=c794486c05df43f0a18e642e6321723ehttps://www.bhf.org.uk/Nigel Street and his wife Christine eating a healthy meal.{04D37883-C74B-4C86-86F0-80076C68A476}https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/my-story/lower-cholesterol-amirHow I lowered my cholesterol: Amir’s storyAmir shares how a heart attack prompted him to overhaul his lifestyle – lowering his cholesterol through medicine, diet, exercise, and stress reduction.Fri, 03 Oct 2025 00:00:00 Zhttps://www.bhf.org.uk//-/media/images/information-support/heart-matters/2025/september/real-life/amir/amir-hoosein-noexp-800x600.jpg?rev=9441c347da2940e5b35de078affff3dchttps://www.bhf.org.uk/Amir Hoosein standing outside.{7DC4E42A-487D-47FD-B361-1ACE4CDFA468}https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/news/behind-the-headlines/vagus-nerve-vo2-maxCan vagus nerve stimulation make it easier to exercise?Recent media reports suggest a new study has found stimulating the vagus nerve can increase your VO2 max and improve your ability to exercise. But is it true? Read our verdictFri, 03 Oct 2025 00:00:00 Zhttps://www.bhf.org.uk//-/media/images/information-support/heart-matters/2025/september/news/vagus-nerve/vagus-nerve-ssnoexp-800x600.jpg?rev=3f0c732dc6924340a1b2d587cab6ea7bhttps://www.bhf.org.uk/A man on an exercise bike in a gym.{CDBD38FE-B23C-4CA7-8B16-F743D05DCF20}https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/my-story/reduce-heart-attack-risk-benHow to reduce risk of heart attack and stroke: Ben’s storyBen cut his risk of having a heart attack in the next 10 years from 18 to 4.3 per cent by stopping smoking, losing weight and lowering his blood pressure and cholesterol. Find out how.Tue, 30 Sep 2025 00:00:00 Zhttps://www.bhf.org.uk//-/media/images/information-support/heart-matters/2025/september/real-life/ben/ben_aitken_noexp-800x600.jpg?rev=4b84313d261a4ce6a220d7c932caa239https://www.bhf.org.uk/Ben Aitken sitting at a table with a hot drink and a fruit bowl.{AFDE9C1F-0158-4AA0-A67D-417225FCEBF6}https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/nutrition/healthy-diwali-celebrationDiwali celebration - tips for enjoying a healthy festivalDietitian Azmina Govindji gives expert tips for enjoying a healthier Diwali. Find out how to make healthier mithai, avoid overeating, and boost your health. Thu, 18 Sep 2025 00:00:00 Zhttps://www.bhf.org.uk//-/media/images/information-support/heart-matters/2025/september/eat-well/healthy-diwali/healthy-diwali_hero_800x600_ssnoexp.jpg?rev=41d49f43524341698963e2f5fbde6d4dhttps://www.bhf.org.uk/Diya lamps lit up at night on colourful rangoli during Diwali.{D70ABA06-CFC3-44BD-AB84-E52DE2097109}https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/medical/how-long-to-lower-cholesterolHow long does it take to lower cholesterol?BHF Senior Cardiac Nurse Ruth Goss explains that although lowering cholesterol isn't an overnight fix, with a a few lifestyle tweaks alongside taking your prescribed medication, you could see results within a 2 to 3 weeks.Tue, 16 Sep 2025 16:22:00 Zhttps://www.bhf.org.uk//-/media/images/information-support/heart-matters/2025/september/understand-health/how-long-to-lower-cholesterol/pills-and-apple-in-hands-cholesterol.jpg?rev=808f1bccb6e3418f994cedbef60d37d1https://www.bhf.org.uk/Pills and apples in hands lowering cholesterol{0481B2F5-89F3-4DEA-9095-2DB63A04A7BC}https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/medical/why-am-i-always-tiredWhy am I always tiredBHF Senior Cardiac Nurse, Regina Giblin, explains how lack of oxygen to the heart and medicine side effects can cause long-term tiredness in people with heart and circulatory conditions.Tue, 16 Sep 2025 15:58:00 Zhttps://www.bhf.org.uk//-/media/images/information-support/heart-matters/2025/september/understand-health/why-am-i-always-tired/woman-lying-on-sofa-tired-arm-across-face.jpg?rev=8c1feaac9fec4152a29f96e347e2fbb5https://www.bhf.org.uk/Woman lying on sofa with arm across face tired fatigued{2262B20B-B00C-4AB5-B855-EBB62D927F94}https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/news/behind-the-headlines/ultra-processed-foods-weight-lossDo ultra-processed foods help or hinder weight loss?We investigate new research that shows eating ultra-processed foods (UPFs) like ready meals, cereals and pre-packaged snacks when you're trying to lose weight can actually encourage you to eat more. Mon, 15 Sep 2025 11:27:00 Zhttps://www.bhf.org.uk//-/media/images/information-support/heart-matters/2025/september/understand-health/upf/upf-foods-ssnoexp-800x600.jpg?rev=4878651f698d4d9f91a196df3c4840f2https://www.bhf.org.uk/Man shopping for cereal in supermarket{7FACBF8A-A26F-4D8E-B3F7-C05BCA4BAAF2}https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/medical/ask-the-experts/cold-hands-and-feet-in-winterWhen should I worry about cold hands and feet in winter?BHF Senior Cardiac Nurse Regina Giblin explains why you get cold hands and feet in winter and what signs to look out for, like numbness and pale or blotchy skin, that may indicate an underlying health condition.Wed, 10 Sep 2025 13:19:00 Zhttps://www.bhf.org.uk//-/media/images/information-support/heart-matters/2025/september/understand-health/cold-hands-and-feet/woman-wearing-thick-pink-socks-under-duvet.jpg?rev=41e783cd06a241a885320c205df148f8https://www.bhf.org.uk/Woman wearing thick pink socks under duvet{1FE36618-2418-41B8-9BE1-24EBE8CD9984}https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/wellbeing/how-to-deal-with-anxietyHow to deal with anxiety when you have a heart problemNHS Clinical Psychologist, Dr Katie Murray, explains what anxiety is and how to get help if it's affecting you. Plus expert tips to feel calmer, like grounding, deep breathing and muscle relaxation. Tue, 09 Sep 2025 11:05:00 Zhttps://www.bhf.org.uk//-/media/images/information-support/heart-matters/2025/august/wellbeing/anxiety-when-you-have-a-heart-problem/main2_anxiety_800x600_final.jpg?rev=d11fdc37739d489191456d5ef6098b2bhttps://www.bhf.org.uk/Abstract illustration showing a woman sitting with her head on her knees and surrounded by a red thread that twists around her and has knots in, depicting anxiety.{30DAFE9E-0BB7-400E-A003-769C5092F46F}https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/nutrition/cheese/cheese-quizCheese – find out what’s good for you in 3 minutesDo you know how much cheddar you should eat a day? Or if vegan cheeses are really healthier than dairy cheeses? Find out much you know about cheese with our quick 9-question quiz.Fri, 05 Sep 2025 00:00:00 Zhttps://www.bhf.org.uk//-/media/images/information-support/heart-matters/2025/september/eat-well/cheese-quiz/cheese-quiz-cheese-board-ssnoexp-800x600.jpg?rev=3b9b5238f2914edbbff9caaecb1c8cefhttps://www.bhf.org.uk/Different cheeses on a wooden board.{F937A834-BB6A-4659-AE85-96CB0EE2792A}https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/medical/ask-the-experts/beta-blocker-side-effectsCould your beta-blocker side effects be a trick of the mind?Some people stop taking beta blockers because they believe they’re causing side effects like breathlessness and weight gain. But these symptoms can be caused by the nocebo effect, explains specialist Dr Sameer Zaman.Thu, 04 Sep 2025 00:00:00 Zhttps://www.bhf.org.uk//-/media/images/information-support/heart-matters/2025/september/understand-health/beta-blocker-side-effects/beta-blocker-side-effects-ssnoexp-800x600.jpg?rev=4bbcedceb438447591e48124b379c399https://www.bhf.org.uk/A man reading the label of a bottle of medicine and his holding up his phone.{0CED9720-1194-4586-AE9F-1FE408AD9D04}https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/nutrition/sugar-salt-and-fat/fats-explainedFats explained: saturated, unsaturated and trans fatsBHF Senior Dietitian, Dell Standford, explains how much fat you should eat, the difference between saturated and unsaturated fats, and which fatty foods and oils are healthy.Tue, 02 Sep 2025 00:00:00 Zhttps://www.bhf.org.uk//-/media/images/information-support/heart-matters/2025/august/eat-well/fats-explained/fats-explained-ssnoexp-800x600.jpg?rev=a40c220aa0024761a4a823ce51e01df8https://www.bhf.org.uk/A close up of bubbles in fatty oil.{97D82E41-ECA8-4237-9ED5-729C8C5C0533}https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/nutrition/foods-that-lower-blood-pressure/dash-dietDASH diet: what to eat for high blood pressureBHF Senior Dietitian, Tracy Parker, explains what a DASH diet meal plan involves, such as eating plenty of fibre and cutting down on salt, to help lower high blood pressure.Fri, 22 Aug 2025 00:00:00 Zhttps://www.bhf.org.uk//-/media/images/information-support/heart-matters/2025/august/eat-well/dash-diet/dash-diet-ssnoexp-800x600.jpg?rev=8ad7931ed8c74b4c822f726470533e84https://www.bhf.org.uk/A table with healthy foods like salmon, wholegrains, vegetables, nuts and beans.{5853F9E7-178D-47C6-A8EC-CBF5E504D9F1}https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/activity/aerobic-exercisesLow intensity aerobic exercises – 10 minute home workoutTry these 7 safe and low intensity exercises to improve your fitness, including star jumps, towel slams and front kicks, from cardiac rehab expert Hara Markos.Thu, 14 Aug 2025 00:00:00 Zhttps://www.bhf.org.uk//-/media/images/information-support/heart-matters/2025/august/activity/aerobic-exercises/aerobic-exercises-hero-noexp-800x600.jpg?rev=0bfda04895e54264a2e1568038860533https://www.bhf.org.uk/Hara Markos and Peter McCudden performing a knee raise with a hand tap.