In a town like Steamboat Springs, where active lifestyles and outdoor adventures are the norm, it’s easy to assume that heart health takes care of itself. With skiing, biking, and hiking right in our backyard, shouldn’t we all be in peak condition? Yet, heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the U.S., and even the most health-conscious individuals can overlook key factors contributing to cardiovascular wellness.
To explore hidden risks and the best ways to support heart health, we turned to our friends at Steamboat Face & Body and McCreight Progressive Dentistry. Cass Marinez, a wellness expert at Steamboat Face & Body, emphasizes that true health isn’t just about staying active—it’s about understanding what’s happening inside your body.
“In Steamboat, we take our fitness seriously, but many people don’t realize that heart health isn’t just about exercise—it’s also about controlling inflammation, balancing metabolism, and taking care of your oral health,” says Marinez. “These factors are interconnected, and neglecting one can impact the others.”
The Mouth-Heart Connection
Your mouth plays a bigger role in heart health than you might think. Poor oral hygiene and untreated gum disease can contribute to chronic inflammation, which has been linked to heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.
“Oral health is one of the most overlooked aspects of cardiovascular wellness,” explains Dr. Jim McCreight of McCreight Progressive Dentistry. “Inflammation caused by gum disease doesn’t just stay in the mouth—it can travel through the bloodstream, increasing your risk for heart-related issues.”
Regular dental checkups and proper hygiene habits like brushing, water picking, and professional cleanings are crucial. At McCreight Progressive Dentistry, cutting-edge tools like salivary testing detect harmful bacteria that contribute to systemic inflammation, helping patients take a proactive approach to their heart and overall health.
Metabolism and Heart Health
Exercise alone isn’t enough to keep the heart strong—metabolic health plays a critical role as well. The way your body burns fuel, whether carbs or fat, can influence long-term heart health. That’s where Lumen, a breath-based metabolic tracker, comes in.
“Lumen is a game-changer for people who want to optimize their metabolism,” says Marinez. “It provides real-time feedback on how your body is using energy, so you can make smarter choices about your diet and lifestyle.”
By tracking metabolic shifts, Lumen helps individuals adjust their nutrition and exercise plans to reduce inflammation, stabilize blood sugar, and support cardiovascular health. When paired with strength training, hydration, and a balanced diet, this approach can significantly lower the risk of heart disease.
The Role of Inflammation in Overall Health
Chronic inflammation, often called the “silent killer,” contributes to heart disease, autoimmune disorders, and even premature aging. Stress and environmental factors are major contributors.
Steamboat Face & Body offers treatments designed to combat inflammation from the inside out, including:
- Medical-Grade Skincare: Chronic inflammation can cause redness, irritation, and premature aging. Medical-grade skincare delivers potent ingredients deep into the skin, repairing damage and restoring balance.
- Red Light Therapy: Red light therapy promotes healing, reduces inflammation, and boosts collagen production by penetrating the skin at a cellular level. It’s effective for calming irritated skin and improving circulation.
- Custom Wellness Plans: Inflammation triggers vary from diet and stress to environmental exposure. “We create personalized wellness plans tailored to each client’s lifestyle and health goals,” says Marinez. “It’s about addressing the root causes, not just treating symptoms.”
Reducing Inflammation Through Oral Health
Oral bacteria are a surprising contributor to inflammation. Neglecting oral hygiene allows harmful bacteria to thrive, triggering inflammation that spreads throughout the body, increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease and metabolic disorders. This is why oral care is essential to a holistic wellness routine. McCreight Progressive Dentistry helps clients maintain optimal oral health to support overall well-being and reduce chronic inflammation.
Building Healthy Habits for a Stronger Heart
A holistic approach to heart health includes more than just cardio workouts. Here are a few key habits recommended by Steamboat Face & Body:
- Hydration: Staying hydrated supports circulation and metabolic function.
- Protein Intake: Starting the day with protein helps regulate blood sugar and supports muscle health.
- Oral Care: Prioritizing oral hygiene reduces inflammation and supports cardiovascular wellness.
- Strength Training: Maintaining muscle mass is essential for metabolic health and long-term heart function.
Your Wellness Journey Starts Here
At Steamboat Face & Body and McCreight Progressive Dentistry, the focus is on whole-body wellness. Through personalized care, advanced diagnostic tools, and holistic treatments, they’re helping Steamboat residents take charge of their heart health in ways they may not have considered before.
This February, in honor of American Heart Month, take a moment to check in with yourself. Is your wellness routine as comprehensive as it should be? If you’re ready to take the next step in your health journey, reach out to Steamboat Face & Body to learn how a truly holistic approach can make all the difference.
In a town that thrives on adventure, the best way to keep moving is to keep your heart strong. ❤️
