World Heart Day 2017: 4 Ways to Keep Your Heart Healthy

World Heart Day 2017: 4 Ways to Keep Your Heart Healthy

September 29 marks World Heart Day 2017, which aims to encourage people to cut their risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD), which includes heart attack and stroke. Here are some ways to manage your heart health.

Cardiovascular disease (CVD), which includes heart attack and stroke, is the world’s number one killer, causing 17.5 million deaths each year, with the figure expected to rise to 23 million by 2030. The good news is that many cases of CVD can be prevented with some lifestyle changes. Here is a round-up of some ways to manage your heart health:

Get to Know your Heart

Book a visit to your doctor to know how healthy your heart is and any lifestyle changes that you need to make. It’s a good idea to find out your blood pressure, which is the number one risk factor for CVD and known as the “silent killer” because it usually has no warning signs or symptoms, and many are unaware that they have it. Also have your blood glucose levels checked as high blood glucose could indicate diabetes, which if left undiagnosed and untreated can also put you at a higher risk of CVD and stroke. Also, check your cholesterol levels, weight, and body mass index (BMI) to help ensure your heart is healthy.

Eat heart-healthy food

Aim to include five portions of fruit and vegetables in your daily diet, with each portion equivalent to around a handful of fresh, frozen, canned, or dried fruit and vegetables. Avoid processed and pre-packaged foods which are often high in fat, sugar, and salt, and try to make your own healthy meals for lunch at school or work. Cut down on sugary fruit juices and drink water instead, and keep your alcohol intake within recommended guidelines.

Kick the Habit

Stopping smoking is the single best thing anyone can do to improve their heart health. Within two years of quitting the risk of CVD is significantly reduced, and within 15 years it returns to that of a non-smoker. Exposure to secondhand smoke also increases the risk of heart disease in those around you, so by quitting you’ll also help improve the health of friends and family. If you’re struggling to kick the habit don’t suffer in silence, seek out the support of those around you and help from a medical professional.

Move More

Physical inactivity is another contributor to CVD, as it can lead to unhealthy weight gain, diabetes, and high blood pressure. Aiming for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity activity five times a week can help cut this risk, with brisk walking, jogging, swimming and cycling being good options. Making everyday changes such as taking the stairs instead of the elevator and walking instead of driving are also easy ways to get more active.