Help lower your heart attack risk
Q: I’m 42, somewhat overweight, and smoke a little. Can I prevent a heart attack?
A: can “Most anyone certainly reduce their chances of suffering a heart attack,” says George Adesina,
M.D., a board-certified physician specializing in Cardiology at Kelsey-Seybold Clinic. “Heart disease is the leading cause of death for men and women in the United States, but you shouldn’t accept it as being inevitable. You can help prevent cardiovascular disease by committing to a healthier lifestyle and staying informed about your health with regular medical checkups.”
Lifestyle strategies for a healthier heart
“Although there are some risk factors we can’t change, such as inherited genetics and advancing age, the following lifestyle modifications can help protect your cardiovascular health,” Dr. Adesina says.
Here are his recommendations: 1. Stop using tobacco in any form. Even if you’ve been smoking for years, stopping now can be of benefit. (Kelsey-Seybold physicians can help.) 2. Exercise at least 30 minutes most days of the week.
3. Eat a heart-healthy diet. Fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fat-free dairy products, lean meats, and fish such as salmon and tuna are part of a healthy diet. Shake the salt habit. Avoid saturated fats.
4. Maintain a healthy weight.
5. Get quality sleep. Otherwise healthy adults usually need about seven hours a night.
“Stay informed about your health with regular medical evaluations that include checking blood pressure and other cardiovascular indicators,” Dr. Adesina emphasizes. “If necessary, lifestyle strategies can be modified and medications prescribed for better health.”