Heart disease is not as simple as it sounds. It is the No. 1 cause of death in America. And stroke is the No. 5 cause of death in the U.S. One of the biggest reason for these statistics is a lack of proper care to a heart and unhealthy lifestyle. Your lifestyle is not only your best guard against all sorts of heart disease and strokes, but it is also your responsibility to take care of it. The heart-healthy lifestyle may include the ideas given below. By following these little steps you can reduce all of the avoidable risk factors for the heart attack, heart disease, and stroke.
1. Exercise a Little Each Day
2. Set a Reasonable Goal for Weight Loss
If you are obese or overweight, you don’t have to get lean in order to reduce your chances of a heart attack and stroke. If you can lose up to 5% to 10% of your weight, you will improve your cholesterol level and also lower your blood sugar and blood pressure levels.
3. Take Your Heart Medicine
Though it may sound like a no brains, however, don’t skip your medicines. A lot of people don’t take their meds the way their doctor has told them to. Find out what stops you from taking your medicines — it can be cost, side effects, or forgetfulness. Better ask your doctor for a guidance.
4. Eat Well
If you follow a healthy diet plan, you can lower your chances of getting a heart disease.
Fill your plate with different kinds of:
• Fruits
• Veggies
• Whole grains
• Fish
• Lean meats
Stay away from prepared or processed foods that usually contain a high amount of salt and added sugar. They are also loaded with preservatives.
5. Drink Some Alcohol, but Not Too Much
If you love drinking then continue drinking, as any type of alcohol can helps your heart, but only if used with caution. Too much drinking can raise the risk of high blood pressure, stroke and heart attack.
To get the best benefit without any risk, stop at one drink a day if you are a woman and two if you are a man.
6. Eat a Little Chocolate
7. Don’t Smoke
Smoking can raise the risk of stroke and heart attacks. Consult your doctor about how to kick smoking butt. You will also be doing a favor to your friends and family since they too are passive smokers which can lead to heart disease to them as well.
8. Pay Attention to Your Symptoms
9.Manage diabetes
10. Reduce stress
A few researchers have noted a link between coronary heart disease risk and stress in an individual’s life that can affect the risk factors for the heart disease and stroke. For instance, people who are under stress may start smoking, overeat, and even smoke more than they usually do. Research has shown that stress reaction in the young adults foresees middle-age blood pressure risk.
