Staying healthy

So what can we do to ensure that we keep our hearts healthy? Philippa Hobson, senior cardiac nurse at the British Heart Foundation, advises how to look after your heart.

MAKE TIME FOR YOUR NHS HEALTH CHECK

If you live in England and are aged between 40 and 74, it’s important you get your Health Check at your GP surgery. It’s free and designed to assess your risk of stroke, heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, dementia and kidney disease. The 20-minute test involves checking your blood pressure, pulse and cholesterol, and discussing your lifestyle and family history of medical conditions.

EXERCISE WHEN YOU CAN

Don’t feel you have the time? Incorporate it into your daily life.

If you commute to work, get off the bus a stop early or park your car further away and walk the extra distance. Ideally, aim for 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical exercise a week – break it down into

10-minute chunks if that’s easier.

DON’T FALL VICTIM TO ‘SILENT KILLERS’

Risk factors for heart and circulatory disease, such as high blood pressure or cholesterol, don’t usually have symptoms. Don’t wait until you feel unwell to get tested. Diagnosed early, they’re easily monitored and treated.

LOOK AFTER YOURSELF

If you’re a smoker, quitting is the best thing you can do for your heart. Cut down on fatty and salty foods, and eat a balanced diet that includes plenty of different coloured fruit and veg. w&h

For more information on how to look after your heart health, visit bhf.org.uk