According to the Center for Disease Control, over 800,000 Americans suffer a heart attack each year. That means that each year, over 800,000 people run the risk of dying or having their lives drastically altered because of the event. Here at the Triangle’s Champion Heart and Vascular Center, we understand that the best way to treat a heart attack is to prevent it from ever occurring. That’s why we’re happy to share these heart care strategies you can use anywhere to help keep your heart happy and healthy.
Heart care tactics to minimize your risk.
Understand what level of risk you have.
Heart attacks are the result of a combination of genetic history and personal habits, so no two people have the exact same risk of having one. That’s why our team recommends visiting a heart care specialist at least once a year for a checkup. They can take your vitals and learn more about any significant changes to your lifestyle. That allows them to make tailored recommendations on how you can improve your heart health and what preventative measures you can institute based on your needs.
Make exercise a part of your weekly routine.
People who struggle with being overweight or obese are at a higher risk of suffering a heart attack than adults who fall in the recommended 18.5 to 24.9 BMI range. That’s why regularly exercising is crucial when it comes to preventing heart attacks. While some people still have trepidations about going to a gym amidst the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, there are plenty of things you can do safely at home. Simple acts such as going for a walk or run, doing yoga, or light resistance training can help keep your heart strong.
Eat a balanced diet.
Eating right is another helpful way to manage your weight and prevent unnecessary stresses on your heart. Individuals who have a diet filled with high amounts of saturated fats, trans fats, and cholesterol typically suffer from heart disease at a higher rate. If you want to keep yourself protected, opt for a diet that’s high in fiber with minimal salt and sugar. This includes leafy greens, whole grains, fatty fish, nuts, and dark chocolate.
Cut out unhealthy habits.
If you’re a smoker and are concerned about your heart health, one of the best things you can do is quit immediately. While there will always be lingering effects of the habit, stopping now can help reduce the damage to your heart and blood vessels. This includes cigarettes, cigars, secondhand smoke, and vaping. Excessive drinking is another contributing factor to heart attacks. If you’re going to drink, limit it to two drinks or less per day for men and one drink or less per day for women.
Minimize your stress levels.
They say that stress is the silent killer, and while it may be more of a mental problem, it can have adverse physical effects on your body. That includes increasing your risk of suffering a heart attack. If you experience stress in your daily life, try to find ways to calm your mind and relax physically. Whether it’s stretching, making art, listening to music, or meditating, it’s helpful to find a relaxing activity that you can do regularly to mitigate issues related to stress.
Do you want more help preventing heart attacks?
Then contact the team of heart care experts at Champion Heart & Vascular. With facilities in Dunn and Henderson, North Carolina, we are the Triangle’s premier heart health specialists. Rather than sending you for tests and treatments at the hospital, we can perform a diagnosis and provide our professional insights from the comfort of our offices and at a rate that’s far more affordable than your other options. Learn more about the services we offer, or you can schedule your appointment now with our convenient online tool.
