Germs

Another study found a three-month course of antibiotics resulted in longer life and reduced the risk of future heart attacks in people hospitalized for heart attack or unstable angina.

Researchers aren’t sure exactly why antibiotics might help. They may kill residual bacteria left over from an acute infection, (Autopsies have revealed chlamydia pneumoniae living in coronary artery walls.) Another possibility: Certain antibiotics appear to have anti-inflammatory actions. Researchers are actively investigating this mystery.

Meanwhile, don’t look for cardiologists to start handing out antibiotics any time soon. The world, and the United States in particular, is facing a serious public health threat from the growing incidence of antibiotic resistance, in which even the most powerful antibiotics are no longer effective against an increasing number of bacteria.

The medical community will need many more studies proving conclusively that antibiotics can help with CHD—and which antibiotics work best. And despite the above data supporting a germ-heart disease connection, two large studies have found no association between the number of infections a person suffers and subsequent heart attacks and strokes.

How the Plan Can Help

The diet recommended in the Plan is associated with optimal mmmune function, which reduces inflammation and increases the body’s defense against common infections.

Also, quitting smoking can reduce your risk of infection. Studies find that smoking turns your entire body into a breeding ground for germs. Smokers are particularly prone to respiratory infections. In a study published in the journal Stroke, researchers found that current and former smokers who had common chronic infections—such as bronchitis, ulcers, urinary tract infections, and even gum disease—were more than three times as likely to develop early CHD as people without such infections. Second hand smoke can be just as devastating, the researchers found, so encourage your loved-ones to quit, for their sake and yours