In the United States alone, one in every four women will die of heart disease. That’s why it’s so important to maintain a healthy lifestyle and see your doctor regularly to reduce your risk of heart disease and heart disease-related issues. Not sure where to start? These five easy tips will lower your risk of heart disease and improve your overall health.
1. Watch Your Diet
It is scientifically proven that a diet consisting mainly of processed foods is unhealthy for the heart. Making small changes in your diet and opting for whole, unprocessed foods can do wonders for not just your heart, but the rest of your body as well. If you’re not sure where to start, your primary care doctor, a nutritionist or your OB-GYN can help you get on track.
2. Put Down the Cigarettes
When it comes to heart disease, smoking is a major factor. Not only do the chemicals in cigarettes harm your blood cells, but they can damage the structure and function of your blood vessels and heart too.
3. Get Moving
A sedentary lifestyle is one of the biggest risk factors for heart disease. By implementing a regular exercise routine, you’ll increase your exercise tolerance, reduce your blood pressure, lower your LDL cholesterol and increase your HDL cholesterol, and improve your overall cardiovascular health.
4. Reduce Stress
When it comes to improving cardiovascular health, many people don’t think about managing their stress levels. Stress however, is another contributing factor for heart disease. From walking to deep breathing to art therapy, there are lots of ways you can manage your stress levels.
5. Schedule Regular Visits With Your Doctor
Scheduling regular appointments with your doctor is key in preventing heart disease. By knowing your numbers—your cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and more—you and your doctor can work as a team to keep you healthy and find the right health care solutions for you.
Schedule an Appointment With OB-GYN Women’s Centre of Lakewood Ranch
At OB-GYN Women’s Centre of Lakewood Ranch, we’re committed to keeping women healthy. If you’re concerned about heart disease, our team of caring and compassion doctors can give you the resources you need to live a healthier life. Contact us today to learn more about our services or schedule an appointment online.
