Preventive care is not only proactive, it also is collaborative, meaning that patients are encouraged to take ownership of their health by understanding their own risks and unique concerns. And when it comes to your heart, this is where “preventative cardiology” comes into play. By taking the time to understand the importance of practicing heart health, one can quite easily nip a number of potentially concerning health conditions in the bud. Wondering how best to maintain a healthy heart? These easy strategies are a great way to keeping your heart healthy.
Get Moving
It seems obvious, but exercise is one of the best ways to maintain good physical, emotional, and psychological health. Of course, the first step is the hardest. But once you start moving, your body will crave more. So get your heart pumping with cardiovascular exercises such as walking, swimming, or riding a bike. Don’t have time to take to the gym? Start tracking your steps and make conscientious choices such as parking away from your office building or taking the stairs. Before you know it, your steps will accumulate.
Stop Smoking
One of the best ways to stave off heart disease is by not smoking. The chemicals and additives in tobacco products are known cancer causers and also put your cardiovascular health in jeopardy. Think vaping or using e-cigarettes is better? Recent developments across the nation demonstrate the risks of developing vape-related medical conditions, some of which have proven fatal. Why risk it? If you don’t smoke, don’t start. If you do smoke, try to stop. Your heart will thank you!
Eat Healthy
A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains will greatly benefit your heart. Try beans, low-fat or fat-free dairy products, fish, and lean cuts of meat while cutting out saturated fats whenever possible. And don’t let the term “fat” fool you — healthy fats like those from avocados, nuts, and olives can help fight heart disease. Try incorporating salmon and tuna into your diet, and oat milk in your coffee. When dining out, look for “heart healthy” symbols on the menu, and ask for low-fat and healthy substitutes.
Get Quality Sleep
It’s proven that sleep disorders can result in weight gain, stress, and other conditions that affect your health. Your body needs time to rejuvenate, and a quality night’s sleep can provide that. Creating good sleep habits such as going to bed at the same time each day, turning off the TV and iPhone at bedtime, and avoiding caffeine or alcohol in the evening can do wonders for your cardiovascular health.
Maintain a Healthy Weight
Being overweight or obese can cause heart problems – especially when that weight is concentrated around the middle. Besides putting stress on your heart (as well as joints and bones), excess weight increases the odds of developing heart disease, arteriosclerosis, diabetes, and high blood pressure. If you start to eat right, sleep well, and exercise, you just may start to shed those pesky pounds.
Know Your History
Genealogy and DNA testing may be all the rage, but there is also a medical component that can help your heart! Knowing your family history with regard to heart disease, or if there are any specific genetic indicators that put you at high risk, can help you and your doctor identify any potential health risks. Talk to your relatives and find out as much as you can. Also be prepared to discuss your own medical history, to include past surgeries, allergic reactions, and medical conditions, with your doctor to help him or her determine which health screenings are most beneficial for both your heart and overall health.
Personalized Care in the DC Metro Area
While maintaining a healthy heart is a gift you can give yourself and those you love, sometimes you may need a little help. That’s where Rockville Concierge Doctors comes in. Specializing in personalized, patient-centered care for acute and chronic conditions, as well as preventive care for individuals and families, the expert providers at RCD take the time to know each patient personally. Not familiar with concierge medicine? Request a complimentary consultation today at (301) 545-1811. At Rockville Concierge Doctors, you are family and we look forward to getting to know you for a lifetime of good health.
