The biggest cause of mortality in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, is heart disease, which claims approximately 610,000 lives annually. The main risk factors for acquiring the disease are high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and smoking. Still, additional illnesses and bad behaviors can raise your risk, says Dr. Anosh Ahmed. These include having diabetes, being overweight or obese, eating poorly, not exercising, and consuming too much alcohol.
Why else is it important to maintain a healthy heart as you age?
It’s important to take excellent care of your heart to prevent cardiovascular disease, but that should be something other than your primary driving force. There are numerous additional causes to maintain a healthy heart,
To maintain cholesterol and blood pressure
You are more likely to develop cardiovascular disease if you have high cholesterol, but this is not the only risk factor. According to the American Heart Association, high levels of unhealthy cholesterol in the blood can also cause heart attacks and strokes, says Dr. Anosh Ahmed.
Your general health is even more at risk from high blood pressure levels. You have a higher risk of developing renal disease or failure, peripheral artery disease, angina, vision loss, heart attack, stroke, and heart failure.
To reduce feelings of depression
Did you know that heart problems make you more likely to experience depression? A clinical psychologist and the director of Behavioral Sciences at the Crozer-Keystone Family Medicine Residency Program, studies reveal that 33% of heart attack sufferers go on to experience depressive symptoms.
The American Heart Association, where he volunteers, received his statement: “The big message is that people need to be aware of this relationship.” The availability of several treatments is the second message. Nobody ought to endure pain.
To lower your risk of developing dementia
Heart health and mental health are related, but the relationship extends beyond depressive symptoms. According to research, dementia and poor heart health are related. Your blood arteries constrict when you don’t adequately care for your heart through wise lifestyle choices, reducing the amount of blood that can reach the brain. Your brain cannot function properly if there is insufficient blood flow, and you may find it difficult to reason with others, make decisions, or recall familiar faces and locations.
How can I take better care of my heart?
By leading a more sensible lifestyle, you can safeguard your heart and lower your risk of acquiring life-threatening illnesses. Making these modest choices can significantly affect your general well-being and the condition of your heart:
Follow a heart-healthy diet
According to the Heart Foundation, you can fuel a healthy heart, lower your blood and cholesterol levels, and maintain weight by eating more nutrient-dense foods and cutting out bad fats from your diet. Limit your intake of salt and alcohol, and increase your diet of fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats.
Exercise regularly
Regular exercise is extremely beneficial for both your physical and mental health. As the CDC advises, ensure you engage in 150 minutes of physical activity each week.
You may take charge of your heart health by scheduling routine doctor’s appointments. Your doctor can check your blood pressure, cholesterol, and mental health, as well as offer advice on how to lower your risk of dementia development.
