BLOG

Even if you are in good health and exercise regularly, the potential of heart disease is lurking down the road. As the leading cause of death in the US, heart disease can strike anyone. While some of the factors that contribute to your heart disease risk are hereditary and cannot be controlled, there are a number of lifestyle factors that you can control. Here are three things that you can do today to prevent heart disease in the future: 

Improve Dietary Habits

Your diet is a significant predictor in your odds of developing heart disease. Medline Plus explains that to lower your risk of heart disease, focus on eating a diet that is low in saturated fats, sodium and added sugars. You should make fresh fruit, vegetables and whole grains the cornerstone of your diet. There are a variety of dietary changes that you can make to decrease your risk of heart disease while still enjoying flavorful food. For example, instead of reaching for the greasy tortilla chips to dip in that heart-healthy guacamole, try eating it with jicama instead. Substituting applesauce for vegetable oil is a great way to reduce the fat and calories in baked goods. With a little creativity, you can still enjoy your favorite foods without sacrificing your health.

Floss Daily

Most people are surprised to learn about the connection between flossing and heart disease. Not flossing regularly can lead to a host of oral hygiene issues such as gum disease. According to Dr. Bret Dyer, this gum disease can inflame blood vessels around the heart, increasing the risk of heart attack. For this and many other reasons, it is important that you make proper oral hygiene a cornerstone of your overall approach to good health.

Exercise Regularly

When it comes to preventing heart disease, the benefits of regular exercise are vast. Family Doctor says that engaging in frequent cardiovascular activity strengthens your heart while also improving blood circulation. Regular exercise will also help you to maintain a healthy weight, which is a big predictor of heart disease. You will also enjoy lower blood pressure levels and lower cholesterol as a result of working out. All of these benefits work together to reduce your chances of suffering from heart disease.

Heart failure is the leading cause of death in patients today. Welcome Homecare’s exclusive CHF program caters to each patient, individually and focuses not just on care but also education and prevention to keep patients from readmitting into the hospital. Contact us with questions!