Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. The good news is that it is usually preventable if healthy habits are adopted. It may take a bit of effort, but once you have learned how to prevent heart disease you can extend the length of your life.
Disclaimer
The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please contact your doctor before using the information presented here.
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. The good news is that it is usually preventable if healthy habits are adopted. It may take a bit of effort, but once you have learned how to prevent heart disease you can extend the length of your life.
Disclaimer
The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please contact your doctor before using the information presented here.
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Introduction
- Heart disease is an epidemic in America. Millions of people become ill and require surgery, or even die from heart issues every year. That may sound bleak, but heart disease is one of the few conditions that may be prevented and treated by simple lifestyle choices. By shedding some unhealthy habits and adopting some new ones, you should be able to stave off heart disease for decades, or even for the rest of your life.
Step 1: Eat Right
- Naturally, this is easier said than done. Most people tend to choose foods for their flavor rather than their nutritional value. However, it is entirely possible to have the best of both worlds in this case. Experiment with different recipes, or take a trip to a health-conscious restaurant for meal ideas.
Foods to Avoid
- Stay away from foods that are high in cholesterol, saturated fat and trans fat. Consume the following in moderation, or not at all:
- Beef
- Pork
- Full-fat dairy
- Eggs
- Shrimp
- Butter
- Lard
- Coconut oil
- Palm oil
- Excessive amounts of alcohol (over 1-2 drinks per day)
Foods to Embrace
- Many foods will actually lower cholesterol levels and improve heart function. Foods containing polyunsaturated fats, especially Omega-3's, are very beneficial for your heart. Add the following to your diet:
- Fruits
- Vegetables
- Fish
- Beans
- Walnuts
- Almonds
- Flaxseed oil
- Canola oil
- One to two alcoholic beverages daily (more is counteractive)
Step 2: Get Moving
- Getting adequate exercise is vital to heart health. Staying active will help remove excess weight and reduce stress, both of which are linked to heart disease. You don't need to buy an expensive gym membership to get a good workout. You can go for a walk or a jog, opt for the stairs instead of the elevator, do household chores, or ride a bicycle. Experts recommend getting 30-60 minutes of exercise at least 4 days per week.
Step 3: See Your Doctor
- Your physician is the only one who can tell you what shape your heart is in. Get yourself screened annually. If your doctor notices any problems with your health, they will let you know and recommend a course of action. Going to the doctor may be scary for some people, but an office visit is not nearly as frightening as a trip to the emergency room because of a heart attack.
Other Tips
- You can also help avoid heart disease by:
- Reducing stress in your life
- Not smoking
- Maintaining a healthy weight
Conclusion
Keeping your heart healthy is usually just a matter of taking care of your body. Eat right and exercise, and you will help not only your heart, but your overall health and appearance. Following the guidelines above will help you lose weight, avoid cancer and fight off infections in addition to bolstering your cardiovascular well-being.
