Researchers from the University of Eastern Finland have shown that sauna bathing is associated with a variety of health benefits by investigating the physiological mechanisms through which the heat exposure may influence a person's health. Their latest study with 100 test subjects shows that taking a 30 minute sauna reduces blood pressure and increases vascular compliance, while also increasing heart rate similarly to medium-intensity exercise.

We are a nation that loves our #bread! But do you know what bread is heart healthy? We do! Any food made from wheat, rice, oats, corn, or another cereal is a grain product. Bread, pasta, oatmeal and grits are all grain products. There are two main types of grain products: whole grains and refined grains. Whole grains contain the entire grain – the bran, germ and endosperm. Examples include whole wheat, oats/oatmeal, rye, barley, corn, popcorn, brown rice, wild rice, buckwheat, triticale, bulgur (cracked wheat), millet, quinoa, and sorghum. Refined grains have been milled (ground into flour or meal) which results in the bran and germ being removed. This gives grains a finer texture and improves their shelf life. This process removes some important nutrients, including B-vitamins, iron and dietary fiber. Some examples of refined grains are wheat flour, enriched bread and white rice. Most refined grains are enriched, which means that some of the B vitamins and iron are added back after processing. Fiber, however, is not added back to enriched grains. Some examples of enriched grains are wheat flour, enriched bread and white rice. Eating whole grains provides important health benefits: --Many whole grains are good or excellent sources of dietary fiber. Most refined grains contain little fiber. --Dietary fiber from whole grains, as part of an overall healthy diet, may help improve blood cholesterol levels, and lower risk of heart disease, stroke, obesity and type 2 diabetes. --Dietary fiber can make you feel full, so you may eat fewer calories. Including whole grains in your diet plan may help you reach or manage a healthy weight. #bread #Beastfromtheast #StormEmma

Due to red weather warning please note Croí Heart and Stroke Centre will remain closed today March 1st & March 2nd. Stay safe!

Thinking of brighter summer days? If you are anything like us you are already planning your 2018 event calendar. It is all in the planning! Remember to pencil us in, June 10th 2018 the Annual Tour De Lough Corrib cycle in aid of Croí Heart & Stroke Charity. 😎 More details to follow!

Crash diets can cause a transient deterioration in heart function, according to new research. Patients with heart disease should seek medical advice before adopting a very low calorie diet. via European Society of Cardiology (ESC)

🤞🤞🤞 for everyone hoping for good news from TCS New York City Marathon today! BUT.... if your not successful in the lottery Croí have guaranteed race entry to the 2018 marathon. Join #TeamCroi and let your miles save some lives in 2018! For info email edwina@croi.ie today!

“Smart” toothbrush can detect heart trouble. A smart toothbrush that can spot signs of deadly heart problems in saliva is being developed by scientists. It is hoped the brush could spot those at risk of heart failure and encourage them to take urgent action as well as become a routine method of incorporating major health checks into daily life.

The Inaugural Craig Connolly 5k Run/Walk took place Saturday 24th in Roscommon. In memory of Craig Connolly who passed away suddenly on the 25th Feb 2017 aged 35. Organised by his wife Tracey and business partner Cathal. Supporting Croí Heart & Stroke Charity and CMRF Crumlin

During the winter months, cold weather can put extra strain on our hearts, especially for people with heart failure. Low temperatures can cause blood vessels to narrow, restricting the flow of blood around the body and so reducing the amount of oxygen reaching the heart. This means the heart needs to work harder to continue pumping enough blood and oxygen around the body.

Laughter is good for your heart!! And we have a night of laughter for you this March. Join us at the 33rd Annual Croí Gala Ball with special guest Mario Rosenstock (Gift Grub). Mario is best known for his daily ‘gift grub’ appearance on Today FM’s breakfast show with Ian Dempsey. He is coming to Galway for a special performance as part of the new-look Croí Ball which is the longest running Charity Ball in the City, now in its 33rd year. Announcing details of the event, Croí’s Neil Johnson said “We are looking forward to a great night of fun and entertainment, followed by dancing to local band ‘The Bentley Boys’ and disco til late. All funds raised will directly support our ongoing fight against heart disease & stroke” The black-tie ‘Night with Mario’ will take place in the Galmont Hotel Galway on Friday March 23rd, photo shows Mario Rosenstock of ‘Gift Grub’ fame. Tickets for a ‘Night with Mario’ which are limited, are now on sale via the link below or by calling Christine on 091-544310 or email christine@croi.ie.

Almost half of food in Irish shopping baskets is ultra-processed. Future generations will look at today’s food consumption in the same way we view sending children up chimneys, obesity expert Prof Donal O’Shea has said. “Wind on 50 years and people will look back on current consumption and say, ‘really?’” O’Shea, consultant endocrinologist at St Vincent’s Hospital, was responding to a recent study ranking Ireland third highest in the consumption of ultra-processed foods among 19 European countries.

It is one of the most common forms of irregular heart rhythm, and is a major cause of stroke. We take a look at what causes AF, how it’s spotted and what it’s like to live with. via British Heart Foundation