Heart Disease is a chronic illness, and the number one cause of death in America, according to the CDC. One person in America dies from cardiovascular disease every 36 seconds. This article will discuss care tips for preventing heart disease, and maintaining a healthy heart if you have it.
Start with a Heart-Healthy Diet
A proper diet is essential to healthy living. A low-calorie, nutritious diet is key to keeping off the extra pounds and maintaining your heart health. Diets with a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, vitamins, & minerals are important. Avoid or limit saturated fats and trans fats where possible. Limit added sugars when you can. High-fat dairy and meats can be problematic. Limit the amount of alcohol you drink or cut it out if possible.
Quit Smoking
Smoking is the leading cause of preventable death. Quitting smoking can reduce risk factors for heart attacks, stroke, heart disease, an assortment of cancers, and more. Smoking damages the lungs, arteries, the heart, and more. If you are having trouble quitting, talk with your doctor about programs that may be available to you.
Exercise and Heart Disease
Along with dieting, exercise can help reduce the risk of heart disease. Being more active overall will reduce your risk factors, and help you feel healthier and more energetic. Even taking a walk around the block can be beneficial. Be sure to discuss this with your doctor before starting a new fitness routine. This can be especially important if you take certain medications or have physical impairments.
Body Weight and Heart Disease
Your risk level for heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, and more can escalate with body fat. Losing unhealthy weight is important to feeling healthier and reducing medical complications. Following a heart-healthy diet, and being active is key to shedding pounds and maintaining a healthy body weight.
Controlling Other Disease Factors
High blood pressure and high cholesterol can lead to heart disease. Keeping your other chronic diseases and illnesses under control can help reduce the risk of developing further complications overall. Working to maintain healthy control over your diabetes can also be important.
Reduce Stressors
Stress can put added strain on the body, especially the heart. Chronic stress affects blood pressure, anxiety, depression, the immune system, and more. The toll stress can take on the body can be even more severe in seniors. Consider trying ways to reduce stress. Reading, meditation, yoga, and tai chi are all good ways to reduce stress. You may also want to talk to someone about your stressors. If you are not comfortable opening up to a loved one, consider seeing a therapist.
Getting More Sleep
A good night’s sleep is vital to your overall health. Sleep helps support healthy brain functions and can reduce your risk of heart disease. You should be sleeping for at least 8 hours each night. Reduce caffeine, sugar, and nicotine intake during evening hours. During the night, keep your room cool, quiet, and dark. If you are restless at night, try reading before going to sleep. Try to go to the bathroom before heading to bed. You may need a night light in case of late-night bathroom trips.
Safe Harbor Healthcare Services does not provide medical, healthcare, or financial advice via articles. This material has been prepared for informational purposes only. It is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for advice.
Safe Harbor Healthcare Services has been providing excellent home care on Staten Island since 1967. Our services help the elderly and disabled live safely and independently; while giving their families the peace of mind they need. For more information contact us by clicking here, or call (718)-979-6900.
