Imagine this: One person succumbs to a cardiovascular disease every 33 seconds, per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In fact, in 2021 alone, 695,000 people died of heart disease in the US – that’s about 1 in every five deaths! Although the statistics are heartwrenching, top cardiologists such as Ian Weisberg have devised simple ways to keep your heart healthy. It’s not as complicated as it sounds; it’s pretty straightforward, and you can do it. Keep reading to learn how.
1. Don’t be Lazy, Move Your Body
It sounds like a cliché (and rude, perhaps). But take this advice seriously. Heart specialists recommend exercising regularly. It will save you from cardiovascular diseases.
You don’t need to spend hours daily doing high-intensity workouts to be healthy. According to the American Heart Association, only 15 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobics activity is enough to put you in a safe zone. That’s about 30 minutes a day! You can choose to run, walk, garden, or dance. Do what you love and keep moving your body.
2. Eat a Hearty Healthy Diet
It’s true – you’re what you eat. For this reason, it’s essential to eat a well-rounded diet, including whole grains, lean protein, legumes, fruits, and nuts. Limit your intake of saturated fat, sodium, and added sugar.
Always go for food that will help provide essential minerals, antioxidants, and vitamins that promote a healthy heart. Also, be sure to check your portions. It’s all about how much you eat, not what you eat.
3. Make the Doctor Your Friend
How would you know your heart’s health without frequent visits to a cardiologist? The biggest mistake people make is to wait until they’re sick to visit the doctor. Take charge of your health and schedule regular checkups with your healthcare provider. Your doctor will advise you on cardiovascular disease risk factors and provide preventive care tips to keep you healthy. Remember to follow the recommended screenings, lifestyle changes, and vaccinations to ensure your heart and overall well-being are healthy.
4. Get a Good Sleep
Sleep is good for your overall body. Cardiologists recommend at least 7 – 9 hours of quality sleep every night for a healthy heart. Inadequate sleep is a risk factor for heart attack.
Remember to make your sleeping routine consistent – otherwise, you risk disturbing the circadian rhythm and disrupting the heart rate and blood pressure. Moreover, it would be best if you strived to create a bedtime routine to help you relax. For instance, you must avoid screens before bed to create a relaxing mood and environment.
In Summary
Your heart keeps you alive by pumping blood throughout your body parts. Therefore, you must strive to keep your heart healthy. Play your part by eating healthily, getting quality sleep, and exercising regularly. Follow Dr. Ian Weisberg for a curated guide on prioritizing your heart health.
