A new-age lifestyle invites new-age heart issues, and in the hustle and bustle of life, keeping your heart healthy requires a proper balance between work and rest, regular physical activity, a well-balanced diet, and prioritizing mental well-being to navigate the demands of modern living.
The World Health Organisation states that cardiovascular diseases are the major reasons for death around the globe, drawing attention to the urgent need for healthy practices and initiatives to tackle and reduce the impact of risks associated with these diseases. Numerous interconnected factors like genetics, lifestyle choices, and proactive healthcare measures influence heart health. This article explores some practical tips for preventing heart disease and how certain infections can lead to heart complications.
Balanced Diet: The Right Fuel for Your Heart
A heart-healthy diet is the cornerstone of cardiovascular well-being. Focus on incorporating a variety of nutrient-rich foods into your meals. Emphasise fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Limit the intake of saturated and trans fats, sodium, and added sugars. Opt for cooking methods like baking, grilling, or steaming instead of frying to retain nutritional value.
Stay Active: Exercise for a Strong Heart
Regular physical activity is essential for a healthy heart. 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise per week works. Activities such as brisk walking, cycling, swimming, or dancing can help improve cardiovascular fitness. Additionally, incorporating strength training exercises at least twice a week can enhance overall heart health.
Maintain a Healthy Weight: Shedding Excess Pounds
Being overweight or obese can strain the heart and increase the risk of heart disease. Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for heart health. Combine a nutritious diet with regular exercise to manage your weight effectively. Consult a healthcare professional for personalized guidance and support on achieving a healthy weight.
Quit Smoking: Break Free for a Healthier Heart
The harmful chemicals in tobacco can damage blood vessels, increase blood pressure, and reduce the amount of oxygen that reaches the heart. The World Health Organization reflects that every year, 1.9 million people die from tobacco-induced heart disease. Smoking is a major risk factor for heart disease. Quitting smoking is one of the most significant steps to improve your heart health. Seek support from friends, family, or a smoking cessation program to break free from this habit.
Manage Stress: Prioritise Mental Well-being
Chronic stress can take a toll on your heart. “Stress is a factor along with obesity, diabetes, and pollution that leads to heart diseases,” says Dr. Regina Druz, a cardiologist at the Integrative Cardiology Center of Long Island. Incorporate stress-reducing activities into your routine, such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, yoga, or spending time in nature. Establishing a healthy work-life balance and prioritizing self-care are crucial to managing stress and promoting overall mental well-being.
Get Quality Sleep: The Importance of Rest
A good night’s sleep is vital to keep your heart safe. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night. Poor sleep can contribute to conditions like obesity, diabetes, and high blood pressure, which are risk factors for heart disease. Establish a consistent sleep routine, create a comfortable environment, and limit screen time before bedtime to improve sleep quality.
Regular Health Check-ups: Monitor Your Heart’s Health
Regular health check-ups are essential for monitoring your heart health. Blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels are crucial indicators of cardiovascular well-being. Schedule regular appointments with your healthcare provider to assess these factors and promptly address any concerns or risk factors.
Understanding the link between infections and heart diseases can prevent potential cardiovascular complications, and adopting preventive measures can help maintain cardiovascular well-being. Here’s a detailed exploration of their preventive strategies:
Rheumatic Fever:
Rheumatic fever is a condition that can result from an inadequately treated streptococcal infection, particularly strep throat. The bacteria responsible for strep throat can trigger an immune response that mistakenly targets the heart, causing inflammation and damage to the heart valves.
Prevention Strategies-
Endocarditis:
Endocarditis occurs when bacteria, fungi, or other germs enter the bloodstream and attach to the heart valves or other damaged heart tissue. This condition can result from infections in various body parts, such as the mouth, skin, or urinary tract.
Prevention Strategies-
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle to prevent heart disease involves making conscious choices and prioritizing cardiovascular well-being. Remember, small but consistent changes in your lifestyle can lead to long-lasting improvements in your heart health. Adopting healthy practices, understanding the link between infections and heart diseases, and undergoing regular health check-ups can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease. Make your heart a priority, and it will thank you with a lifetime of vitality.
Book your appointment with B&J Hospital now to get the best consultations with the top cardiologists in Navi Mumbai, who can help you manage your diabetes and monitor your heart health effectively.
