Your heart is one of the most vital organs in your body, so it is important to keep it healthy and strong. Heart Disease can be life-threatening and can prevent your heart from working effectively and efficiently. This article will look at 5 ways you can reduce your risk of developing heart disease, and how you can improve your quality of life while doing so.
Quit Smoking
Smoking is bad for you, your heart, and pretty much every single cell in your body. Smoking can negatively impact your heart in multiple ways, Overall, it increases your risk of developing blood clots. Additionally, smoking can narrow your arteries, making those clots more likely to create blockages that can lead to heart attack or stroke. Smoking also increases plaque buildup and causes cell damage. Everything stated here can contribute to developing heart disease. Quitting the habit can help you prevent further damage, and can even allow your body to recover from some of the damage smoking has already caused.
Dieting to Reduce the Risk of Heart Disease
A proper and healthy diet can help you reduce your heart disease risks while also improving a number of other important aspects of your health. Losing weight while getting the right nutrition can help you feel healthier and have more energy. Try to eat more fruits and vegetables, and whole grains. Limit carbs and sodium where possible. Avoid processed foods. Eat more lean meat, or try going meatless for some meals. Diets don’t have to be intense or strict. Work on improving the choices you make, even gradually. Talk with your nutritionist or primary care physician before starting a major diet.
Reducing Stress can Reduce the Risk
Stress can be a big factor in heart conditions. Stress affects cortisol levels in the body. Cortisol, in turn, raises blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol, and plaque buildup in the arteries. Each of these are factors in developing heart disease.
Increase Physical Activity
Sedentary lifestyles can create a higher risk for heart disease. Aging and retired adults often become less active. Light physical activity, such as going for a short walk, can increase blood flow and help you manage your weight. If you can take on more physical activity, consider joining a senior exercise class, or exercising at home. Speak with your primary care physician before taking on any exercise regimens. They can give you a better understanding of your limits, and what exercises may be good for you.
Managing Chronic Conditions to Reduce the Risk of Heart Disease
Chronic conditions, such as diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol can be life-threatening themselves; but they can also increase your risk of developing heart disease. Managing your chronic conditions and improving your overall health can reduce these risks and allow you to live a healthier life overall. Be sure to take your medications as prescribed, and visit your prospective doctors when needed. Regular checkups with your primary care physician can also help you get a better idea of how well you are managing your chronic health conditions.
Safe Harbor Healthcare Services does not provide medical, healthcare, or financial advice via articles. This material has been prepared for informational purposes only, and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for medical 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.
