Caring for your heart health is important at any age. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), heart disease is the leading cause of death for both men and women in the US. Heart disease is related to several conditions such as coronary heart disease, diabetes, obesity, and others.
Here are six ways to be heart-healthy for a long, fulfilling life.
1. Increase your heart rate through exercise
The American Heart Association recommends 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise weekly. Consider going for daily walks, or trying new activities like salsa dancing or rock-climbing. Physical activity will help you maintain a healthy weight and decrease your risk of heart disease.
2. Quit smoking
Tobacco use is proven to increase the risk of heart disease. Connect with one of our board-certified physicians to create a customized plan to help you quit today.
3. Limit your alcohol intake
Be aware of how many alcoholic drinks you consume. Drinking too much alcohol can cause high blood pressure.
4. Eat healthy
One of the most important ways to decrease the risk of heart disease is to maintain a healthy diet. Stock your kitchen with plenty of healthy fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Watch out for proportion size in your meals, and avoid foods high in sodium and saturated fat.
5. Reduce stress levels
Being stressed can lead to unhealthy choices that impact your heart. Make time for activities that reduce your stress levels whether this is exercise, meditation, art or being in nature.
6. See a doctor for preventive care
Speaking with a doctor about your heart health can help with early detection of disease, prevention methods, and treatment plans. One important way to maintain a healthy heart is to find out what your blood pressure should be from your doctor. Once you know, you can track your vitals over time and set goals to lower it.
At Doctor On Demand, our board-certified providers are available 24/7 to help you achieve your best health. From heart health questions to support for quitting smoking or reducing stress, our team is here. To get started and see a medical or mental health professional over live video today, visit: doctorondemand.com.
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