Heart attacks and strokes are a serious threat to many, especially if someone in the family has already been affected. However, instead of worrying, it is worth reforming our lifestyle for the sake of prevention. The most important advice dr. Réka Vernes, the KardioKözpont lifestyle doctor and sports doctor summed it up.
- Let’s quit smoking
Due to its vasoconstricting effect, smoking significantly damages the cardiovascular system, and is also a risk factor for many other diseases, including tumors. There are many ways to quit smoking, pharmaceutical and non-pharmacological tools, behavioral therapy is also available. - Let’s eat smart
A quality (and moderate amount) meal has an effect on almost all influenceable risk factors: for cholesterol levels, blood pressure, diabetes and obesity – all of which can be risk factors for heart disease. A properly composed meal is based on a diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, seeds, and fish, and contains little or no sugar, salt, red meat, animal fats, and ready meals. However, in case of any sensitivity, allergy, existing diseases, or serious goals the best results can be achieved with a diet prepared by a dietitian. - Let’s reduce the cholesterol level
Since high cholesterol is a risk factor for atherosclerosis, with the exception of “good” (HDL) cholesterol, it is also worth reducing total, LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels – in case of high values. The most important tool for this is the lifestyle, which is designed to reduce trans fats and saturated fats, and it is based on regular movementand if this is not enough, also for cholesterol-lowering drugs. - Let’s lower the blood pressure values
The biggest risk factor for stroke is high blood pressure, which can be reduced on the one hand by exercise and proper nutrition, which are considered the cornerstones, and on the other hand by carefully supervised, personalized medication.
- Let’s move every day
Although according to research at least 150 minutes of moderately intense exercise per week can measurably improve health indicators, little is better than nothing. It is clear that the sedentary lifestyle in itself increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases, however, in the case of underlying diseases (such as cardiovascular problems, diabetes, respiratory or locomotor diseases), it is worth starting personalized exercise therapy under the guidance of a specialist. - Let’s aim for the optimal body weight
– Obesity is practically a worldwide problem and not only significantly increases the risk of cardiac diseases, but practically makes it difficult for the entire body to function. It is important to know that drastic diets and weight loss “miracle products” do not help, only a well-structured lifestyle change can stop it and gradually reduce the number of extra kilos. If you have to deal with consequential diabetes, locomotor or other problems, it is especially important to be guided by an expert, explains Dr. Réka Vernes, KardioKözpont lifestyle doctor, sports doctor.
- Let’s keep diabetes under control
16% of people with diabetes older than 65 years die due to stroke. The connection between the two diseases is therefore obvious, and it must also be recognized that in addition to the medical treatment of diabetes, it is lifestyle that can be used to keep blood sugar under control. - Let’s cut back on alcohol consumption
Alcohol consumption – especially if it is regular – increases blood pressure, triglyceride levels, can result in irregular heartbeats, as well as it has been proven to increase the chance of heart muscle damage, stroke and some tumors. In the case of an already established alcohol disease, expert help to quit is almost essential. - We treat stress
Several studies have already proven that there is a link between untreated stress and coronary heart diseaseand it has also been proven that stress indirectly increases the risk of stroke and heart attack. Adequate stress management and mental health are important factors in maintaining health.
Source: Cardio Center
Source: www.patikamagazin.hu
