Your heart is one impressive overachieving organ, yet despite your ticker’s superpowers, 215 people die every day from heart disease or strokes in South Africa.
It is well known that South Africa has one of the highest rates of obesity, smoking and drinking in the world, which are all major contributing factors to Cardiovascular disease. And yes, while our numbers are high, prevention is far simpler than the figures suggest.
Turns out that a few simple lifestyle tweaks can help you live a long healthy life. You don’t need to become a super athlete or go on a very strict diet to protect your heart and lower your risk of heart disease.
Moving your body may be your first point of call. Research published in the journal Circulation found that working out for 30 minutes a day minimized the risk of heart failure by 10%. It’s important to be active in some way every day of the week. However, don’t set yourself up for failure; find something you enjoy and start small.
Also, eat your heart to good health. We are all aware that a diet rich in omega-3s is the way to go. Eat more salmon or sardines; these stinky-good fish are packed with goodness. Also minimize added sugars, it will give you extra calories without vitamins and minerals causing you to gain weight, which will raise your risk of coronary heart disease. And pass the salt – no seriously – Your body counteracts sodium intake by releasing extra water into the blood, leading to increased blood volume and a seriously overworked heart.
Okay, so you’re hitting the gym and eating healthy …. what more could be done to improve your heart health?
“With a healthy heart … the beat goes on” – The Fresh Quotes.
Source: heartfoundation.co.za, menshealth.com, womanshealth.gov, womanshealthmag.com, heart.org, crestline.com, healthline.com, heartfoundation.co.za, pharmadynamics.co.za, world-heart-federation.org
DISCLAIMER: The information on this website is for educational purposes only, and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you are experiencing symptoms or need health advice, please consult a healthcare professional.