What Is Ejection Fraction, and Why Is It Important for Heart Health? - #15508
I recently came across the term ejection fraction, and I wanted to learn more about what it means. From what I understand, ejection fraction (EF) is the percentage of blood pumped out of the heart with each heartbeat, but what is considered a normal ejection fraction? I read that a normal ejection fraction is between 50-70%, and a low EF can indicate heart failure or weakened heart muscles. What are the common causes of low ejection fraction, and how do doctors diagnose and treat it? One thing that concerns me is whether ejection fraction can be improved naturally. What are the best ways to support heart health and strengthen the heart muscles? Are there any Ayurvedic or natural remedies that help with heart function and circulation? I’ve heard that Arjuna, Garlic, and Ashwagandha can help improve cardiovascular health—do these actually work for people with low ejection fraction? If anyone has been diagnosed with low ejection fraction, what lifestyle changes or treatments made the biggest difference? Did medications, exercise, or dietary changes help improve heart function?
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Ejection fraction (EF) refers to the percentage of blood pumped out of the heart with each heartbeat. A normal ejection fraction typically falls between 50-70%. If the EF is lower than this range, it can indicate heart failure or weakened heart muscle, which means the heart isn’t pumping effectively. Common causes of low ejection fraction include coronary artery disease, heart attack, high blood pressure, and conditions like cardiomyopathy. Doctors diagnose low EF through echocardiograms, MRI, or other imaging techniques, and treatment may involve medications like ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, or diuretics, alongside lifestyle changes such as reducing salt intake, exercising, and managing stress. To support heart health naturally, focusing on a heart-healthy diet (rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fruits, and vegetables), regular exercise, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol is essential. Ayurvedic herbs like Arjuna, which is known to support cardiovascular health, Garlic (which has been shown to lower cholesterol and blood pressure), and Ashwagandha (which can help reduce stress and improve heart function) may offer benefits for people with low EF, though it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before using these herbs. Many individuals with low EF find that a combination of medication, regular physical activity, and dietary changes—such as reducing sodium intake and increasing potassium-rich foods—help improve their heart function over time.
You’re right about ejection fraction (EF) — it’s a way to measure how well your heart is pumping blood. An EF of 50-70% is usually considered normal, anything below that might hint at some issues with the heart, like heart failure or cardiomyopathy. Low EF can be due to heart attacks, high blood pressure, valve diseases, or even lifestyle factors like a sedentary routine or stress. Docs usually diagnose it using echocardiography, an ultrasound of the heart, or sometimes MRI. As for treatment — it depends on the cause, but medications like beta-blockers or ACE inhibitors are common.
Can EF be improved naturally? Sure thing! Strengthening heart muscles is key. Regular moderate exercise, like brisk walking or cycling, can boost heart efficiency and muscle strength. Make it a point to find a routine that’s engaging and sustainable. Stress management is another biggie — meditation, pranayama (breath, control), and yoga can do wonders.
Now, diving into Ayurveda — Herbs like Arjuna are revered in the texts. It’s got astringent properties that support heart function, just take it as a powder (churna) mixed with warm water, about 1-2 teaspoons daily, works best in the morning. Garlic, known for cardiovascular perks, helps in lowering cholesterol, just include a clove daily in your meals. Ashwagandha is brilliant for stress; it’s an adaptogen so it plays in nicely with the stress-reduction strategy.
For those with low EF, diet’s crucial — think fresh, seasonal, less processed. Avoid heavy, oily, and very cold foods as they tamper with Agni (digestive fire). Cooked veggies, whole grains, nuts, moderate steaming, and sautéing often work wonders. Healthy fats like ghee or coconut oil, when used properly, nourish the heart too.
Keep caffeine and alcohol in check. Some people find Panchakarma detoxification therapies helpful, though that’s something to discuss with a qualified practitioner. Always balance these methods with advice from your cardiologist — ayurveda and modern medicine can complement each other beautifully when done right!

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