Even though it is one of the most important systems in the body, most people do not place enough emphasis on their heart and its underlying health. Considering that 610,000 people die each year in the United States because of heart disease, maintaining a good, healthy heart should be a priority. Thankfully, your cardiologist can help. Here are a few things your heart specialist wants you to know.
Stress Is a Risk Factor
Most people believe stress is just an emotional issue that has no real effect on your physical health. However, this is not true. Stress is actually a risk factor for heart disease, but you may be wondering how and why.
Individuals who deal with stress will have higher levels of certain hormones, such as adrenaline and cortisol, which can contribute to high blood pressure. Of course, stress itself can cause blood pressure levels to rise. In addition, many people choose to cope with chronic stress by overeating or smoking, which can also negatively affect your heart health.
Everyone experiences stress, but you need to learn how to cope and manage this stress safely. Meditation, exercise, and therapy are all excellent options for dealing with chronic stress.
Sugar, Not Fat, Is the Real Problem
Another interesting thing cardiologists want you to be aware of is that fat is not necessarily the real problem when it comes to your heart health. Unfortunately, your intake of sugar is.
Consuming refined sugar affects the amount of insulin in the body, which can negatively affect the blood vessels. Blood vessels may narrow, decreasing blood circulation through your body, which can lead to inflammation, clots, and even heart blockages.
Instead of focusing only on reducing your intake of high-cholesterol foods, avoid foods with refined sugar, such as soda, processed cookies and pastries, cereal, and white bread.
Being Inactive Is Dangerous
You may think exercise is not necessary if you are thin or not overweight, but that is not necessarily true. Living a sedentary lifestyle or being inactive can increase your risk of heart disease even if you are considered at a healthy weight.
If you do not exercise or move regularly, you will most likely develop high blood pressure that can lead to a heart attack or stroke.
Being active can also improve your mental health, help you cope with stress, and increase blood circulation through the body.
Your heart deserves to be a priority. This guide and your cardiologist's help will guide you on a path towards being heart healthy. To learn more about cardiology, talk to your doctor today.