HealthcareHow To Stay One Step Ahead Of Cardiac Well-Being

Heart health is an emerging concern for Americans as millions are diagnosed with cardiac conditions every year. Not to mention, a growing number of deaths due to heart problems is a reason to worry. Experts state that most of these deaths are avoidable because the underlying conditions can be addressed with better lifestyle choices. A poor diet, lack of exercise, and unhealthy habits are the main reasons for heart disease. It means that tweaking your lifestyle can go a long way in lowering your risk. Anyone can benefit from simple measures to stay ahead of cardiac well-being. Here are the steps that can help.

Opt for a healthy eating plan

A healthy eating plan is the mainstay of cardiac well-being. The right food choices lower your risks, so make sure you stick with them. Opt for a diet low in sodium, trans fat, and saturated fats. Have lots of fresh vegetables and fruits, whole grains, nuts and seeds, and fish. Cut down meat intake and switch to low-fat dairy products. Ditch sugary foods and drinks, and move a step closer to a healthier heart.

Be physically active

Being physically active is crucial, regardless of your age and gender. You can pick exercises of your choice, but make sure you are on the move. If you opt for a vigorous-intensity aerobic activity like jogging and running, 75 minutes a week is good to go. Conversely, moderate-intensity activity such as brisk walking requires you to give at least  150 minutes every week. Besides conscious workouts, sneak exercise into daily activities by taking the stairs, walking to the market, and doing household chores.

Know the warning symptoms

Even the healthiest people can suffer from an underlying cardiac condition. You may experience warning signs once in a while, so knowing them is crucial. According to top cardiologists at San Diego Cardiac Center, you shouldn’t ignore the slightest signs and see a specialist to get an early diagnosis and treatment. The most common warning signs include chest pain, erratic heartbeat, shortness of breath, nausea, dizziness, and sweating.

Get regular wellness checks

Staying ahead of heart conditions is also about getting regular wellness checks, no matter how young you are, and how healthy you feel. Heart-healthy screenings should start in the late-twenties, and you can increase the frequency as you grow older. Find a reliable physician to seek guidance and get regular checks for your blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol, heart rate, and body mass index.

Ditch smoking for good

Smoking is another serious culprit that can affect your cardiac well-being to a significant extent. The best piece of advice is to quit sooner rather than later. It is equally crucial to limit your exposure to secondhand smoke as it is also a severe health hazard. Encourage family members, friends, and colleagues to give up on smoking and embrace a heart-healthy lifestyle.

Besides these recommendations, specialists emphasize the importance of avoiding stress, watching your weight, and knowing your family history. A conscious effort to improve your cardiac well-being can help you live longer, so it is worthwhile.

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