Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the US, so it’s important to know the steps that you and your loved ones can take to maintain a healthy, strong heart at any age. Choosing heart-healthy behaviors can lower risk for heart disease while also preventing other serious chronic conditions, such as type 2 diabetes and certain kinds of cancer.
Wellthy’s team of care experts shared some healthy habits you can work into daily activities to keep you and your loved one’s hearts ticking strong. It’s easier than you may think!
Stay active
One of the easiest ways to improve heart health is by engaging in daily exercise or movement. Even low impact exercises like walking or yoga can lower blood pressure, maintain healthy cholesterol levels, and improve blood sugar regulation.
Eat smart
A well-balanced diet is not only crucial to maintaining a healthy weight but preventing conditions like coronary heart disease. Avoid saturated fat, salt, and added sugar, and include more whole foods (think fruits, vegetables and whole grains) to keep cholesterol at bay.
Know the signs
Poor heart health can manifest in various ways early on, including physical and mental symptoms. Shortness of breath, high blood cholesterol, fatigue, and a decline in memory and cognitive function are common symptoms linked to cardiac disease.
Learn family history
Becoming aware of health history in the family is crucial for knowing if someone is predisposed to a heart condition and taking the right precautions. Markers to keep an eye out for include a history of high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity.
Start with small habits
It’s simple to make small changes in daily activities that help strengthen cardiac health. Parking further away from entrances, taking the stairs, and exercising in small time increments are just a few ways to start taking control of one’s heart health.
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