Heart attacks are a scary thought. Did you know that according to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, heart disease is the leading cause of death in the US? However, you can lower your risk of developing cardiovascular disease, especially if you team up with others.
“Studies
show that having positive, close relationships and feeling connected to others
benefits overall health, blood pressure, weight and more,” said NHLBI’s Dr.
David Goff, director of cardiovascular sciences.
Our Cardiologists recommend the following to help lower your risk of developing heart disease:
Keep moving:
Try to get at least 150 minutes of exercise every week. Walk. Ride a bike. Join an aerobics class. The more active you are the better.
Eat Healthy:
Talk to your primary care doctor or cardiologist about a healthy eating plan. Prepare your meals at home so that you can control what the ingredients are and how the meals are prepared.
Quit Smoking:
It's never to late to quit smoking, even if you've smoked for years. Join a support group and talk to your doctor. Additionally you may connect with a trained counselor at 1-800-QUIT-NOW or smokefree.gov.
Get Plenty of Rest:
Did you know that by getting a good nights rest (7-8 hrs.) improves your heart health? Try not to nap, and go to bed and wake up at the same time every day.
Manage Your Stress:
Talk to your family doctor or a qualified mental health provider. Take a walk, try yoga or meditation.
These health tips are not a substitute for
speaking to a qualified health-care provider, talk to your primary carephysician or specialist today.
