June 30, 2021
Your heart health matters. According to the World Health Organization, heart disease has been the leading cause of death worldwide for 20 years. In the United States alone, this accounts for an estimated 655,000 deaths a year. Risk factors for developing heart disease range from genetic history to the influence of personal lifestyle habits. At Cardiovascular Institute of the South, we want you to know the risks to stay on top of your heart health. Learn how you can control your risk of heart disease.
For some, heart disease is hereditary. Risk factors such as family history, age and sex are out of your control. However, many risk factors can be controlled to greatly lessen your risk. These include:
The above risk factors can be modified and influenced by your lifestyle and daily choices. Let’s break down a few of these below.
Overweight or obese individuals are at a high risk of developing heart disease and type 2 diabetes. This can also lead to high blood pressure and a greater risk of stroke. Weight loss and healthy nutrition are key to lowering BMI taking excess pressure off of the body and your internal organs. Exercise regularly, eat balanced meals of lean protein and vegetables, regulate your portion sizes, and drink plenty of water. Putting your health first is imperative to a healthy heart.
Your cholesterol and blood pressure levels greatly affect your cardiovascular health. Cholesterol references the levels of fatty substances in your blood. Blood pressure indicates the amount of exertion blood cells place on the walls of your arteries. If these levels are too high, this can make it much harder to pump blood through the body. For healthier levels, avoid foods with high amounts of salts and saturated fat. Make physical activity an important part of your daily routine.
Not all enjoyable things are good for you. For example, smoking and drinking alcohol can double your risk of heart attack and disease. Alcohol introduces excess calories into your system and contributes to weight gain. Smoking cigarettes and alcohol consumption also place extra stress on the body by raising blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Limit your alcoholic beverages to no more than one a day, and look for solutions to cut out smoking altogether. Learn about the comprehensive tobacco cessation program at CIS.
The cardiologists at Cardiovascular Institute of the South (CIS) are here for you to guide you in lessening your risk of heart disease. And for those who have already experienced a cardiac event, our Intensive Cardiac Rehab teaches the best ways to make healthy lifestyle changes to fight the effects of cardiovascular disease. This three to four-month rehabilitation program is tailor-made to fit your recovery needs. Learn how to manage stress, develop a nutrition plan, and kickstart heart healing.
If you are concerned about your risk factors for developing heart disease, schedule an appointment with one of our cardiologists today.