The Skinny
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States among men, women and most racial and ethnic groups full stop. In fact, the Centers For Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports a person in the U.S. dies every 36 seconds from heart disease, accounting for almost 700,000 deaths annually. Those are frightening numbers, which really haven’t gotten a whole lot better in recent years. Since February is American Heart Month there is no better time to take a closer look at what’s at stake and how to better take care of your heart. WellWell is helping out by putting together a list of heart-loving actions.
The Slate
Bust The Belly
It is always a good idea to lose weight for those holding too many pounds. Apparently, however, it is especially important to carve-off excess belly fat because it can raise blood pressure levels and increase blood lipids to dangerous proportions—both of which are horrible for the heart.
Brush Up
Good dental health is just plain good and even better for heart health because gum disease often has the same risk factors as heart disease. Want more proof that a healthy mouth supports a happy heart? Some studies indicate that certain bacteria in the mouth can move into a person’s bloodstream and elevate C-reactive protein, which can increase the risk of strokes and heart disease.
Go Ahead, Fool Around.
Sex is a heart booster for most people. It is also a great way to lower stress, which can reduce blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease.
Quit Smoking
If you’re smoking, stop. Just simply stop. It is a bad look and an unhealthy habit. It also increases an individual’s risk of heart disease and cancer. So, bag the butts.
Grab Your Winks
Sleep is essential for maintaining heart health. It doesn’t matter is you’re 15, 50 or 85. Individuals who sleep less than six hours a night are twice as likely to get hit with a heart attack or stroke as those who sleep six to eight hours. For what it’s worth, research maintains not getting sufficient rest whack’s an individual’s biological underpinnings, which can raise blood pressure and inflammation, among other bad things.
Bag Bad Fat
Yes, some fat is good for a person. Think saturated, polyunsaturated and unsaturated fats. However, trans fat is a loser, which can cause heart disease and strokes. This ugly fat leads to clogged arteries by raising bad cholesterol levels. Cutting trans fats from diets can be achieved. by eliminating packaged baked goods, margarine and fried fast foods.
Start Wine-ing
Enjoy wine via moderate consumption. This is especially true of red wine, which the Mayo Clinic maintains can help prevent artery damage and blood clots from forming.
A Higher Diet
Eating right is a key to heart health. Yes, this includes avoiding trans fats, but it also means embracing low-fat chips, fresh veggies, fruits and antioxidant-rich foods. Don’t forget to add in products rich in soluble fiber, such as oats, barley and avocados. It is also a good idea to mix in regular portions of fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids like salmon, tuna, sardines and herring. They will help keep the heart ticking away.
Brush Up On History
It is always a good idea to have a decent background on your immediate family’s medical history. There is a good chance something may have been passed down that puts a person at particular risk of heart problems. It is a history lesson that should be shared with your personal physician.
Eyes Up
What’s your favorite heart-loving action? Let us know at info@wellwellusa.com
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