Learn To Love Your Heart By Making These Healthy Changes

As we continue to endure the effects of the pandemic, it is important we show ourselves love and practice self-care.

With heart health being such an important subject, it is unfortunate how many are struggling with their health. According to the CDC website, 655,000 Americans die from heart disease yearly. The website goes on to say that one person dies every 36 seconds in the US from cardiovascular disease based on the numbers presented. Coronary heart disease (CHD) is the most common form of heart disease; it killed over 365,914 people in 2017. Every year, approximately 805,000 Americans experience a heart attack.

The CDC website also says smoking, high blood pressure, and high blood cholesterol increase one’s risk for heart disease. Other factors like diabetes, obesity, excessive alcohol, physical inactivity, and an unhealthy diet are also listed as increasing the risk. Stress, though not listed on the website, can also be a contributing factor toward heart related problems in the long run.

Your first step toward loving your heart is by making some major changes to your lifestyle. You must address the potential pitfalls by avoiding risk factors; Eat healthy, quit smoking, exercise regularly, reduce alcohol intake, manage your weight, and manage your overall stress level. If there are any other changes you can make, you need to begin there.

No move to keep your heart health in check should be devoid of exercise. Regular cardiovascular exercise has been shown to be beneficial toward the cardiorespiratory system. Exercise can improve circulation, reduce stress, and help manage blood sugar and sodium levels.

If you’re looking to boost your heart health then start by eating foods that contribute toward the solution over the problem. The American Heart Association (AHA) website suggests you consume a range of whole grains, fruits, vegetables, low-fat or fat-free dairy products, poultry and lean meats, oily fish, and legumes. Reduce salty, sugary, fatty, fried, and oily foods as these in excess can contribute to some of the risk factors that could lead to heart problems.

If your focus is on heart health, then you’re in the right frame of mind. Your diet plays an important role in the mix, but so many are unsure of what to consume. Many professionals are not equipped with the tools and knowledge to discuss nutrition or exercise with their clients, but with our CEC/CEU courses you can begin that journey. The courses range from Nutrition and Exercise Science to Senior Fitness and Exercise Prescription to name a few.