Expert: David Richardson - 10/31/2009

Question
Hello Dr.Richardson...I am wondering if my heart rate is normal. In the mornings before getting out of bed my heart rate ranges from 66-72bpm. Driving to school in the mornings I have noticed it is 90-100bpm and remains that high for most of the day. By evening my heart rate is usually between 72-90. I notice lately after I eat my heart rate goes above 100. I have never really been so obsessed with taking my pulse so I'm not sure if it's always been this high. I am not overweight. I am 25 years old. I currently do not exercise regularly, but have decided to start to help ease my general anxieties. Should I be concerned? Also would you recommend that I take any supplements on a daily basis for heart health? If so what and what dosage? thank you so much

Answer
Dear Juliet,

You need not be concerned.  Heart rate up to 140 is normal.  Please exercise regularly.  Exercise will slow your heart rate and more importantly helps protect against coronary disease when you're over 55.  So far as I know there are no supplements that help heart health, with the possible exception of vitamin D.  Eating sensibly, exercising regularly and keeping watch on your weight, blood pressure, and, when you're in your 40's, on your blood cholesterol are best for heart health.  And of course no cigarettes, preferably not even second hand cigarette smoke.

Please write back if this note doesn't answer all your questions.

David Richardson