In general a slower heart rate is better than a faster rate. Recently a study followed a large number of middle aged and older men who agreed to be subjects. It was discovered. that an elevated resting heart rate in healthy subjects is not only a marker of poor general fitness but it is also an independent risk factor that may be a better predictor of premature death than elevated blood pressure or high cholesterol.
The important take away fact is that even though there is general agreement on the fact that an elevated resting heart rate is not a good thing, there is no consensus on what an optimal heart rate is and where increased health risks begin.
If you check your own pulse when you are at rest and your heart rate is greater than 100 you should be concerned. How do you slow it down without taking medications? Consult with a physician. With his consent start a gradually progressive exercise program. We present such a program in our book Live Longer Live Healthier. Within a few months you will notice differences in your appearance, in your energy level and probably observe that your resting heart rate is beginning to slow down.
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