Cardiovascular Health is a spell out for health of the heart. Your Heart creates the rhythm of beating around 60 to 100 times per minute – a total of up to 144,000 times a day! Despite the fact, we often neglect to care for this miraculous life, sustaining organ. Cardiovascular disease should not be taken lightly as it leads to many chronic diseases. There are various steps you can take to improve your heart health; in-fact these 3 heart smart habits will keep your heart healthy:
Manage your blood pressure.
High blood pressure increases the risk of heart attacks. As it can cause Atherosclerosis or the plaque buildup in the arteries, which will eventually result in the blockage of blood supply. High blood pressure does not have particular warning signs. Have it checked at least every 2 years. If the blood pressure creeps up, you can lower it by reducing stress, eating healthy, exercising, minimizing sodium intake, and drinking less alcohol. One high reading is not alarming, but if your tests run consistently over 120/80 you may need a doctor.
Manage cholesterol and triglycerides
Ask your doctor to run a fasting Lipoprotein profile doctor every 4 to 6 years. This test measures your level of good cholesterol (HDL), bad cholesterol (LDL), and triglycerides (body fat). According to the American Heart Association, “A high triglyceride level combined with low HDL cholesterol or high LDL cholesterol is associated with atherosclerosis.” If your family has a history of cardiovascular disease, you may be genetically prone to high cholesterol. You can actually improve your cholesterol by avoiding foods that are high in saturated fat, such as beef, lamb, pork, butter, or whole milk. Add fish, olives, avocados, walnuts, and vegetable oils to your diet for stronger heart.
Exercise regularly
Physical activity can significantly improve your heart’s health. Exercise strengthens the heart muscles, keeps the weight controlled, and reduces stress. The American Heart Association recommends 30 minutes of moderate exercise at least 5 days per week. Zumba, jogging, ballroom dancing, basketball game, swimming or a brisk walk as long as you’re moving and keeping your heart rate above resting you are maintaining a healthy strong heart.
The heart is a bewildering part of our bodies that goes unnoticed until something goes terribly wrong. Invest in your heart health today to ensure that it continues to provide a strong rhythm throughout your life. If you need help in developing a plan for better heart health contact Vascular Health LLC
