Here’s to Heart Healthy Aging
As we age, our bodies, particularly heart and blood vessels, undergo gradual changes. As with so many aging and health related issues, there are ways we can take control of our bodies and minimize or slow down the decline that occurs over time as we age. That’s what we are highlighting here; Actions you can take to keep your circulatory system, heart and blood vessels, working optimally for as long as possible.
These are probably things you already know, but if one person reading this decides it’s time to begin exercising, stop smoking or reduce their intake of unhealthful food, it is well worth repeating. So here we go.
You can take action today to control high blood pressure, cholesterol levels, diabetes, obesity, and smoking.
MODERATE EXERCISE
Moderate exercise is all you need to be healthy. Federal guidelines call for Americans to get at least 150 minutes per week of moderate exercise for optimal health. And some studies have suggested that moderate exercise, eg. Walking, is as beneficial as more vigorous exercise. To reach this goal, start out at 5 minutes a day and gradually work your way up to 20. Here in North Georgia we have some of the most beautiful scenery in the world. Check it out.
Here’s a link to more ideas from the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute. Exercise tones muscle, pumps blood, raises your metabolism, controls blood sugar and has been shown to enhance a sense of well-being. Everyone is different so be sure to check with your doctor before beginning a new exercise program. Exercise moderately and within your capabilities, but do it regularly.
STOP SMOKING
Nothing new here! Everyone knows smoking is a leading cause of lung cancer, but did you know it damages your blood vessels and increases your risk of many circulatory problems. Quitting is hard, but once you quit, your body begins to heal. Check out some of these suggestions from the Center for Disease Control.
EAT A HEART HEALTHY DIET
You know the old saw, “You are what you eat.” So, would you rather be a juicy red crisp apple or a lump or lard? Eat vegetables, fruits, legumes and whole grains with a bit of lean protein thrown into the mix if you can’t give it up altogether. Reduce saturated fats, trans fats, sugar and cholesterol, and combine that with moderate exercise and you will control your weight and feel great.
There are so many resources to help you go heart healthy; here are a few
- The Mayo Clinic
- The New York Times
- Dr. Caldwell Esselstyn
- New York Times Recipes for Health
- Happy Healthy Long Life
MONITOR YOUR WEIGHT, BLOOD PRESSURE and CHOLESTEROL LEVELS
Have regular check-ups. Have your blood pressure checked every year. If you have diabetes, heart disease, kidney problems, or certain other conditions, your blood pressure should probably be checked more frequently. Ask your doctor and follow his advice.
If your cholesterol level is normal, have it rechecked every 5 years. If you have diabetes, heart disease, kidney problems, or certain other conditions, your cholesterol may need to be monitored more closely.
Want more detail?
Check out the National Institute of Health site, MedlinePlus. They have a series of articles about the effects of aging on your body.
Deprecated: Function mcrypt_get_iv_size() is deprecated in /mnt/stor13-wc1-dfw1/381872/www.gasurgery.com/web/library/FM/Db.php on line 115
Deprecated: Function mcrypt_create_iv() is deprecated in /mnt/stor13-wc1-dfw1/381872/www.gasurgery.com/web/library/FM/Db.php on line 116
Deprecated: Function mcrypt_encrypt() is deprecated in /mnt/stor13-wc1-dfw1/381872/www.gasurgery.com/web/library/FM/Db.php on line 118
