Heart issues are significantly rising in every age-group and sedentary lifestyle is a major contributor. Expert enlists basic lifestyle tips and why it is important to inculcate these in everyday routine.
There has been an increase in deaths by heart attack. Almost every other day a case of heart attack, especially in the young generation makes the headlines. Heart issues are the leading cause of death across the globe affecting more than 17.9 million lives every year. Stress, sedentary lifestyle, food habits all combined have major impact on heart health. Heart conditions can be complex to diagnose since they frequently present with symptoms that might seem commonplace but are actually important early warning indications of underlying cardiovascular problems. Speaking with India.com, Dr. Kaushik Mukherjee, HOD (CTVS), Senior Cardiac Consultant, DESUN Hospital, Kolkata, enlisted simple daily lifestyle habits to incorporate to maintain healthy cardiovascular health.
Heart Health: 5 Simple Habits to Reduce Risk of Heart Attack
- Having a healthy diet: Diet plays a critical role in minimizing the risk of cardiovascular diseases. It is advisable to have a balanced diet with fruits, green leafy vegetables, lentils, protein-rich eggs and milk instead of junk and processed food. Avoiding excessive oily foods and snacks will also keep the lipid levels low. Meals can be planned as per an individual’s nutritional needs. Foods, including leafy greens, whole grains, and fatty fish, lowers your risk of heart disease.
- Active lifestyle and exercise: Having a healthy life would also imply adding physical activity to your daily routine. Exercising for 30-45 minutes a day, going for morning and evening walks, and some light cardio training and stretching go a long way in keeping you fit and your heart healthy. For cardiac patients, it is advisable to walk distances to be in rhythm and remain active. In addition, it is crucial to tackle obesity and avoid complications like diabetes, high blood pressure.
- Managing stress and lifestyle modification: Stress and other external factors will always have a direct impact on your health. It is vital that we don’t let these things get to us. As individuals, we should take control and work on our emotional well-being before they get the better of your heart. It is important to converse with your friends and family and achieve an optimum work-life balance. Steer clear of alcohol, smoking or any such addictive substances.
- Adequate relaxation and sleep: Sleep for a minimum of eight hours – the mantra for a healthy heart. Being sleep-deprived has a direct effect on your heart health, as lack of sleep increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Also, adequate sleep is crucial for regulating the circadian rhythms of our brain and helps us to stay fit, fresh and energetic throughout the day. Stay healthy and continue a sustainable lifestyle to keep your body, mind and soul happy.
- Regular checkups and screening: Besides ensuring all of the above, individuals must get checked at regular intervals and adhere to the medications as prescribed by their doctor. This should include blood tests, ECG, ECHO and a treadmill test along with CT Coronary Angiogram, if the doctor advises. Monitor your blood pressure and sugar levels constantly, and when in doubt, the best practice is to always reach out to your doctor or physician.