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2025 Heart Health Resolutions This New Year, it’s time to prioritize heart health with expert advice from leading cardiologists.
Small changes such as a balanced diet, regular exercise and stress management can significantly improve heart health.
Protecting the heart does not require massive changes. Small, consistent adjustments to your diet, exercise routine, and lifestyle can make a world of difference. This year, why not commit to making your heart a priority?
Dr. Priya Palimkar and Dr. Ajit Menon, India’s leading cardiologist, offers practical and easy-to-follow advice to help you keep your heart in tip-top shape.
2025 Heart Health Resolutions: 1. Eat smart
A balanced diet is the cornerstone of heart health. Dr. Palimkar recommends including whole grains, fresh fruits, vegetables, lean proteins like fish and healthy fats like nuts and seeds in your diet. Reducing salt intake to less than 2,300 mg per day (ideally 1,500 mg) helps manage blood pressure.
Avoid trans fats found in processed foods and start meals with salads or steamed vegetables to prevent overeating. Dr. Menon explains the importance of moderation: limit fried and oily foods, increase your protein intake and avoid fad diets.
2. Keep your weight under control
Maintaining a healthy weight can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease. Aim for a body mass index (BMI) between 18.5 and 24.9 and keep your waist circumference under 80cm for women and 90cm for men.
Dr Palimkar recommends doing at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise weekly, along with strength training twice a week. Even a 45-minute daily walk can make a difference, especially in reducing belly fat, says Dr. Menon.
2025 Heart Health Resolutions: 3. Say NO to smoking and limit alcohol
Quitting smoking is one of the most effective ways to protect your heart. If necessary, seek professional help to quit. Dr Palimkar suggests limiting alcohol consumption to one drink a day for women and two for men.
If you do drink, red wine may be a better option because of its antioxidants. Avoid excessive alcohol consumption at all costs.
4. Manage stress wisely
Chronic stress can raise blood pressure and cholesterol levels, increasing the risk of heart disease. Mindfulness practices, meditation, and engaging in hobbies can help you manage stress effectively. right timesnownews.comdr. Menon advises paying attention to your body and addressing unusual symptoms without delay.
2025 Heart Health Resolutions: 5. Prioritize quality sleep
Quality sleep has a major impact on heart health. Both experts emphasize getting 7-8 hours of uninterrupted sleep each night. A consistent sleep schedule aids recovery and supports overall well-being.
6. Don’t skip regular health checks
Routine health screenings are crucial for early detection of potential heart problems. Dr Palimkar recommends monitoring blood pressure, cholesterol and fasting blood sugar.
Dr. Menon suggests stress testing every 2-3 years after age 40 or earlier if there is a family history of heart disease. Postmenopausal women should also schedule regular checkups.
2025 Heart Health Resolutions: 7. Stay consistent
Dr Palimkar advises starting with small, achievable steps, such as replacing an unhealthy snack with fruit. Dr Menon recommends building a gradual exercise routine tailored to your level and needs. of fitness.
Bonus tips for a healthy heart
- Dietary changes: Add heart-friendly foods like almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, flaxseeds, and salmon to your diet.
- Exercise carefully: Avoid overexertion and increase the intensity gradually.
- Symptom Awareness: Watch for signs like persistent heartburn or abdominal discomfort that could signal heart problems. Seek medical attention immediately if symptoms persist.
By adopting these heart-healthy habits, you can make 2025 a year of positive change. Small steps can lead to big results, adding not just years to your life, but life to your years. Make every moment count by prioritizing your heart health. today.
Source: www.doctorulzilei.ro