Four Ways to Take Care of Your Heart Health Starting Now

Posted on March 1, 2023

In case you missed the memo, February was American Heart Month. This special recognition helps raise awareness the risk of heart disease, along with the importance of prioritizing your heart health.

You may be asking, “Why we are still talking about this? It’s already March.”Woman older than fifty wearing active clothing with a towel over her shoulder, holding a small red heart.

February may be over, but that doesn’t mean your heart health becomes less important.

Heart disease continues to be the leading cause of death for people in the United States. In fact, approximately 700,000 lives are lost each year due to heart disease. Thanks to advances in technology, cardiovascular imaging helps identify heart disease in order to determine the best course of treatment.

Combat your risk of heart disease and avoid the need for by making small yet significant changes in your lifestyle. When you stick with them, you will feel the difference.

Understand Your Risk

Each person has a different risk for developing heart disease. Your risk factor depends on your habits, lifestyle, and a host of other factors such as:

  • Being a man over forty-five
  • Being a woman over fifty-five
  • Being overweight or obese
  • Family history of heart disease
  • High blood pressure
  • High cholesterol
  • Lack of regular exercise
  • Prediabetes and diabetes
  • Smoking
  • Unhealthy diet

Eat A Heart Healthy Diet

Regardless of your risk factor, everyone benefits from adopting a diet that is overall healthy for their heart. This means eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats rich in omega-3 such as walnuts, avocadoes, and fish. Remember, all things in moderation. Save the fried foods and rich desserts as a special treat instead of a daily indulgence.

Commit To Daily Exercise

You have to move your body. The good news is that you don’t have to be an athlete to get the exercise you need. Even just 30 minutes a day makes a major difference in your overall health. Take a walk after dinner, ride your bike, do yoga, and don’t forget to stretch. Find activities that you enjoy and create a routine that works for your schedule. It’s worth it.

Manage Your Stress Levels

This may be easier said than done, but there are healthy ways to manage your stress levels. Stress is associated with other negative mental health conditions including depression and anxiety. It also leads to high blood pressure, irregular heartbeats, digestive problems, and has an overall negative impact on your health. Adopting a healthy diet and exercising regularly both help manage your stress levels. Additionally, meditation and other forms of relaxation help curb stress. Make sure you take time for yourself especially when you feel overwhelmed and as though you are doing too much.

ImageCare Radiology proudly offers cardiovascular imaging in New Jersey when you need it. Contact us today to schedule appointment.