Worried about developing heart disease? Whether it runs in your family or you just want to ensure heart disease doesn’t take up residence in your life, these steps shared by Dr. Mayank Yadav, Dr. Rajandra Hippalgaonkar, and the team at Central Florida Heart Associates in Orange City, FL can help.
5 Ways to Prevent Heart Disease
Heart disease is one of the most common causes of death. The worst part about that is that it’s typically a preventable one. In fact, the American Heart Association reports that as much as 80 percent of heart disease cases could have been prevented with just a few lifestyle changes, such as those listed below.
Start Small
Before diving into the types of changes you should make, there is something very important to understand: no change in the world will help if you can’t sustain it. As you work to become more heart-healthy, do so by making small changes, letting them become habits, and then introducing new changes.
Eat Well
You probably remember learning about the food pyramid in school and hearing that you should “eat the rainbow.” This is a good principle to follow to prevent heart disease. Focus on eating a balanced diet and reducing fatty meats, sugar, and salt.
Remember, though, do it slow. For example, maybe focus the first week on cutting back on one soda daily and researching low-sodium meals. Next week, cut back on one more soda and add a lower-sodium meal to your food routine. By doing little bits at a time, you are making more lasting changes.
Be Active
Staying active is essential for heart health, but it doesn’t require a two-hour rigorous cardio workout. Swimming, walking, yoga, tai chi, and other gentle workouts are also helpful. And while you need 150 minutes of activity each week, you can spread them out in five to ten-minute increments.
Quit Smoking
Smoking is harmful to your heart and overall health. It’s essential that you quit as soon as possible. If you need help doing so, Dr. Yadav, Dr. Hippal, and our team at Central Florida Heart Associates in Orange City, FL is committed to helping you find the right way to do so.
Reduce Stress
Stress isn’t known as a “silent killer” for nothing. It’s one of many things that can affect your heart – in addition to many other things. Journaling, walks, a hobby, and similar activities can help reduce stress and its impact on your health.
Learn more about how to prevent heart disease by visiting Dr. Yadav and Dr. Hippal. Call (386) 774-2100 to schedule an appointment at Central Florida Heart Associates in Orange City, FL today.