If you’re splitting with your spouse, take extra care of your heart. Research from the University of Texas at Austin, and Bowling Green State University in Ohio, has found that divorce may weaken the cardiovascular health of middle-aged women.

Researchers studied data on more than 9,000 men and women (individuals were either married, never-been-married, divorced, widowed or remarried) between the ages of 51 and 61 during an eight-year period, and found nearly one-third of the divorced or otherwise unmarried women had developed heart disease while most of the men remained heart healthy. The reason? The emotional stress and greater economic changes that women endure post-breakup are the suspected culprits.

To keep yourself heart-healthy during a breakup, try the following:

• Let it go “If you gave it your best shot and the relationship didn’t work out, don’t waste time being angry or resentful,” says psychotherapist Tina B. Tessina, Ph.D., L.M.F.T., author of The Ten Smartest Decisions a Woman Can Make After Forty (Renaissance, 2001). Instead, spend time with supportive friends or family.
• Close your wallet You may be tempted to distract yourself with a post-breakup shopping spree, says Olivia Mellan, M.S., a Washington, DC–based money coach and psychotherapist who specializes in relationships. “[But] it would be smarter to visit a financial planner for an overview of your goals and future plans,” she says. “Keep a spending diary and review it each week.” Also consider joining a women’s investment club (find a local chapter at betterinvesting.org) or buying simple-to-use financial planning software, such as Quicken, to help track your finances. This will give you a sense of control.
• Eat smart Foods rich in simple carbohydrates (such as cakes and cookies) will help you feel better in the short term by boosting your serotonin levels, but don’t rely on these foods for constant comfort, says Jeannie Moloo, Ph.D., R.D., a registered dietician in Roseville, CA. “Choose foods rich in complex carbs, such as whole grains, fruits and vegetables. Also try to include foods rich in heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, herring, tuna, walnuts and flax. And get regular physical activity.”
• Take a mini-escape Remember, taking a moment to enjoy a cup of hot tea or a long soak in a steamy bubble bath can help you refocus and relax.

Tags: Bowling Green State University, Bowling Green State University in Ohio, Health/Medical/Pharmaceuticals, heart disease, Human Interest, Interpersonal relationships, Love, Ohio, Relationship breakup, Social Issues, Texas, University of Texas, University of Texas at Austin