When it comes to living a healthy life for years to come, taking care of your heart matters. After all, in the U.S. alone,
more than 30 million people have heart disease, making it the leading cause of death for both men and women. Fortunately, with a few simple steps, you can keep your arteries healthy and prevent heart disease from developing. Check out these tips to help you do just that.
Eat a Balanced Diet
Few things affect your arteries quite like the foods you eat. Rather than choosing foods that are highly processed or contain a lot of cholesterol, be sure to pick foods that are high in fiber and nutrients. High cholesterol foods, such as greasy meats, can lead to build-up along the walls of your arteries, while nutrient-rich foods, such as fruit, vegetables, whole grains, and lean meats promote healthy digestion and will keep your arteries clean and clear. It's also important to take in the recommended dose of your daily vitamins. If you're uncertain that your diet alone is providing you with enough vitamins, it's wise to incorporate a multivitamin into your daily routine.
Stay Active
Getting enough
exercise on a consistent basis is one of the most effective ways to maintain healthy arteries. That's because when you get your body moving, your arteries carry oxygen-rich blood around your body. Luckily, you don't have to hit the gym every day to keep your arteries healthy through exercise. Simply going for a walk around the block can make a big difference in terms of your artery and heart health. Likewise, it's important to stay active throughout the day. If you work at a desk or find yourself sitting for extended periods of time, try to take hourly breaks where you get up and walk around. Your heart and arteries will thank you!
Avoid Cigarettes
It's no secret that
smoking cigarettes can have damaging effects on nearly every system of your body, including your cardiovascular system. Along with causing cancer, smoking can cause your arteries to contract, making it harder for blood to flow freely throughout your body. You don't have to be a smoker to have your heart affected by cigarette smoke. Secondhand smoke can also have devastating effects on one's heart and arteries. With this in mind, stop smoking cigarettes and avoid inhaling secondhand smoke whenever possible.
Manage Stress
Like smoking, stress can have a huge impact on virtually every part of your body, including your heart. To protect your arteries from the negative effects of stress, try these tips to help you relax and feel your best:
- Get plenty of sleep
- Make time for yourself
- Journal
- Meditate/pray
- Take up a new hobby
- Practice Good Oral Hygiene
Did you know that your oral health and heart health are connected? It's true. Poor oral hygiene can cause gum disease that can lead to atherosclerosis. The good news is that gum disease is preventable. By brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing thoroughly one time a day, you won't just be protecting the well-being of your smile, but of your heart as well. Bottom line? Don't forget to floss!
Vascular Institute Can Help You Maintain Healthy Arteries
Striving to maintain healthy arteries can help you live your best life possible. By eating a nutrient-rich diet, exercising regularly, avoiding cigarette smoke, managing your stress, and practicing good oral hygiene, you will be well on your way to keeping your arteries healthy and strong. For more information on how to protect your heart and arteries, the Vascular Institute of the Rockies is here for you. Visit us online today to
schedule your free consultation.