.png)
Cardiovascular health is a crucial aspect of overall well-being, and maintaining a youthful, resilient cardiovascular system is a goal shared by many. One key indicator of cardiovascular age and health is pulse wave velocity (PWV), a measure of arterial stiffness. In this blog post, we'll explore the concept of PWV, its relationship to cardiovascular age, and effective interventions to improve this vital marker of heart health.
Understanding Pulse Wave Velocity
Pulse wave velocity is the speed at which the arterial pulse propagates through the circulatory system (Bortel et al., 2012). It is determined by measuring the time it takes for a pulse wave to travel between two points in the arterial system, typically from the carotid artery in the neck to the femoral artery in the groin (Townsend et al., 2015). PWV is an important indicator of arterial stiffness, which increases with age and is a key risk factor for cardiovascular disease (Vlachopoulos et al., 2010).
The Relationship Between PWV and Cardiovascular Age
As we age, our arteries naturally become stiffer due to structural changes in the arterial wall, such as the breakdown of elastin fibers and the accumulation of collagen (Lakatta & Levy, 2003). This increased stiffness leads to a higher PWV, which can be used as a surrogate marker for cardiovascular age (Boutouyrie et al., 2010). A higher PWV indicates a "older" cardiovascular system, while a lower PWV suggests a more youthful, compliant arterial network.
Numerous studies have demonstrated that PWV is a strong predictor of cardiovascular events and mortality, independent of traditional risk factors such as blood pressure and cholesterol levels (Ben-Shlomo et al., 2014). In fact, a meta-analysis by Vlachopoulos et al. (2010) found that an increase in PWV by 1 m/s was associated with a 15% increase in the risk of cardiovascular events and mortality.
Interventions to Improve Pulse Wave Velocity
Given the significance of PWV as a marker of cardiovascular health, interventions aimed at reducing arterial stiffness and improving PWV are of great interest. Here are some evidence-based strategies to help improve PWV and promote a more youthful cardiovascular system:
Exercise: Regular physical activity, particularly aerobic exercise, has been shown to improve arterial compliance and reduce PWV (Montero et al., 2014). A meta-analysis by Ashor et al. (2014) found that aerobic exercise interventions lasting at least 4 weeks led to significant reductions in PWV, with the greatest benefits observed in older individuals and those with higher baseline PWV values.
Dietary modifications: Adopting a heart-healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help improve PWV. The Mediterranean diet, in particular, has been associated with lower PWV and reduced arterial stiffness (Buscemi et al., 2012). Additionally, reducing salt intake and increasing potassium consumption have been shown to have beneficial effects on PWV (Tousoulis et al., 2014).
Stress management: Chronic stress has been linked to increased arterial stiffness and higher PWV (Logan & Barksdale, 2013). Engaging in stress-reducing activities, such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, and yoga, can help lower stress levels and potentially improve PWV (Bruno et al., 2014).
Supplements: Certain supplements, such as omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and vitamin K2, have been associated with improved arterial health and reduced PWV (Demer et al., 2017; Knapen et al., 2015; Pase et al., 2011). However, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen to ensure safety and appropriate dosing.
Medications: In some cases, medications such as angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), and calcium channel blockers may be prescribed to help reduce arterial stiffness and improve PWV (Mahmud & Feely, 2005). These medications should only be used under the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider.
The Evergreen Institute: Promoting Cardiovascular Health Through Personalized Care
At The Evergreen Institute, we understand the importance of maintaining a youthful, resilient cardiovascular system for overall health and longevity. Our team includes a fellowship-trained physician in Anti-Aging and Regenerative Medicine, and is dedicated to providing personalized, evidence-based care to help our patients optimize their cardiovascular health.
By incorporating advanced diagnostic tools, such as pulse wave velocity assessment, into our comprehensive evaluations, we can gain valuable insights into your cardiovascular age and tailor our interventions to your unique needs. Our holistic approach encompasses lifestyle modifications, targeted supplements, and cutting-edge therapies to help you achieve and maintain a healthy, youthful cardiovascular system.
If you are interested in learning more about how pulse wave velocity can provide a window into your cardiovascular health and how we can help you optimize your well-being, we invite you to visit TheEvergreenInstitute.org and schedule your "Explore The Evergreen Institute" visit to take control of your health today!
Conclusion
Pulse wave velocity is a powerful indicator of cardiovascular age and health, providing valuable insights into the stiffness and resilience of our arterial system. By understanding the relationship between PWV and cardiovascular risk, and implementing evidence-based interventions to improve this crucial marker, we can take proactive steps towards maintaining a youthful, healthy cardiovascular system. From lifestyle modifications and targeted supplements to personalized medical care, a multifaceted approach to optimizing PWV can help us age gracefully and reduce our risk of cardiovascular disease.
References:
Ashor, A. W., Lara, J., Siervo, M., Celis-Morales, C., & Mathers, J. C. (2014). Effects of exercise modalities on arterial stiffness and wave reflection: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. PloS One, 9(10), e110034. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0110034
Ben-Shlomo, Y., Spears, M., Boustred, C., May, M., Anderson, S. G., Benjamin, E. J., Boutouyrie, P., Cameron, J., Chen, C. H., Cruickshank, J. K., Hwang, S. J., Lakatta, E. G., Laurent, S., Maldonado, J., Mitchell, G. F., Najjar, S. S., Newman, A. B., Ohishi, M., Pannier, B., Pereira, T., ... Wilkinson, I. B. (2014). Aortic pulse wave velocity improves cardiovascular event prediction: An individual participant meta-analysis of prospective observational data from 17,635 subjects. Journal of the American College of Cardiology, 63(7), 636-646. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jacc.2013.09.063
Bortel, L. M., Laurent, S., Boutouyrie, P., Chowienczyk, P., Cruickshank, J. K., Backer, T., Filipovsky, J., Huybrechts, S., Mattace-Raso, F. U., Protogerou, A. D., Schillaci, G., Segers, P., Vermeersch, S., & Weber, T. (2012). Expert consensus document on the measurement of aortic stiffness in daily practice using carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity. Journal of Hypertension, 30(3), 445-448. https://doi.org/10.1097/HJH.0b013e32834fa8b0
Boutouyrie, P., & Vermeersch, S. J. (2010). Determinants of pulse wave velocity in healthy people and in the presence of cardiovascular risk factors: 'Establishing normal and reference values'. European Heart Journal, 31(19), 2338-2350. https://doi.org/10.1093/eurheartj/ehq165
Bruno, R. M., Stea, F., Sicari, R., Ghiadoni, L., Taddei, S., Ungar, A., & Bonuccelli, U. (2014). Vascular function is improved after an environmental enrichment program: The train the Brain-Mind the Vessel study. Hypertension, 66(6), e18-e25. https://doi.org/10.1161/HYPERTENSIONAHA.114.04382
Buscemi, S., Verga, S., Tranchina, M. R., Cottone, S., & Cerasola, G. (2012). Effects of hypocaloric very-low-carbohydrate diet vs. Mediterranean diet on endothelial function in obese women. European Journal of Clinical Investigation, 39(5), 339-347. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2362.2009.02091.x
Demer, L. L., Tintut, Y., & Vascular System. (2017). The good and the bad of vitamin K. Nature Medicine, 23(5), 529-530. https://doi.org/10.1038/nm.4339
Knapen, M. H., Braam, L. A., Drummen, N. E., Bekers, O., Hoeks, A. P., & Vermeer, C. (2015). Menaquinone-7 supplementation improves arterial stiffness in healthy postmenopausal women. A double-blind randomised clinical trial. Thrombosis and Haemostasis, 113(5), 1135-1144. https://doi.org/10.1160/TH14-08-0675
Lakatta, E. G., & Levy, D. (2003). Arterial and cardiac aging: Major shareholders in cardiovascular disease enterprises: Part I: Aging arteries: A "set up" for vascular disease. Circulation, 107(1), 139-146. https://doi.org/10.1161/01.cir.0000048892.83521.58
Logan, J. G., & Barksdale, D. J. (2013). Pulse wave velocity in Korean American men and women. Journal of Cardiovascular Nursing, 28(1), 90-96. https://doi.org/10.1097/JCN.0b013e318239f959
Mahmud, A., & Feely, J. (2005). Arterial stiffness and the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system. Journal of the Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System, 5(3), 102-108. https://doi.org/10.3317/jraas.2004.025
Montero, D., Vinet, A., & Roberts, C. K. (2014). Effect of combined aerobic and resistance training versus aerobic training on arterial stiffness. International Journal of Cardiology, 178, 69-76. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijcard.2014.10.147
Pase, M. P., Grima, N. A., & Sarris, J. (2011). The effects of dietary and nutrient interventions on arterial stiffness: A systematic review. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 93(2), 446-454. https://doi.org/10.3945/ajcn.110.002725
Tousoulis, D., Tsarpalis, K., Antoniades, C., Vasiliadou, C., Stefanadi, E., Saliari, E., Oikonomou, E., Latsios, G., Papageorgiou, N., Marinou, K., & Stefanadis, C. (2014). Effects of L-arginine and vitamin C administration on endothelial function, arterial elasticity and inflammation in chronic heart failure secondary to ischemic or idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy. International Journal of Cardiology, 177(3), 912-918. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijcard.2014.09.047
Townsend, R. R., Wilkinson, I. B., Schiffrin, E. L., Avolio, A. P., Chirinos, J. A., Cockcroft, J. R., Heffernan, K. S., Lakatta, E. G., McEniery, C. M., Mitchell, G. F., Najjar, S. S., Nichols, W. W., Urbina, E. M., & Weber, T. (2015). Recommendations for improving and standardizing vascular research on arterial stiffness: A scientific statement from the American Heart Association. Hypertension, 66(3), 698-722. https://doi.org/10.1161/HYP.0000000000000033
Vlachopoulos, C., Aznaouridis, K., & Stefanadis, C. (2010). Prediction of cardiovascular events and all-cause mortality with arterial stiffness: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of the American College of Cardiology, 55(13), 1318-1327. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jacc.2009.10.061