What Every Adult Should Know About Heart Disease Prevention

According to statistics compiled by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, heart disease is the leading cause of death for both women and men. It also takes a significant financial toll, including the cost of care, as well as lost productivity. 

The team at Heart and Vascular Care understands that heart health can be a daunting topic for residents of Plano, Texas, which is why we’re here to discuss simple ways you can reduce your risk of developing or dying from heart disease. 

Understanding that prevention is possible

To clarify, certain congenital defects can impact heart health. Genetics also plays a big role, but having a genetic predisposition to heart disease does not mean you can’t avoid heart issues. 

For most of us, preventing heart disease is not only possible but can be accomplished in ways that are far easier than you might imagine. Knowing that you have the power to shape your own heart health journey is incredibly motivational. We hope to inspire people of all ages to embrace a lifestyle that protects and preserves healthy hearts. 

Viewing food as medicine is a great place to begin

Never before in human history has there been such a wide range of choices when it comes to nourishment. Unfortunately, not all of those choices support a healthy lifestyle. In fact, many of the foods and beverages available to the average American can be viewed as more harmful than helpful. 

It doesn’t make it any easier to make healthy choices when you’re faced with a barrage of conflicting (and often plain false) information about which foods can be considered “healthy.” Numerous multi-billion-dollar industries have developed around “health foods,” supplements, and structured diet plans. 

When it comes to shaping your diet around your heart health, it helps to remember that simplicity is key. Most processed foods that have a lengthy list of ingredients (especially when you can’t even identify what some of those ingredients are) are not a healthy choice. 

Foods that you can buy in their most natural state are always a good starting point for healthy meals. Whole grains, vegetables, lean proteins, fruit, and healthy fats are all ingredients that can be built into meals and snacks that support your heart health. 

Activity and exercise can be therapeutic

We all know that we should be moving more. However, we are again bombarded with conflicting messages about when and how to stay active. Should we be going to the gym three times a week? Take up running or yoga? Schedule weight training sessions on the weekends?

As with nutrition, simplicity offers a wonderful path toward enhanced health. If you enjoy spending time with others, fitness classes or scheduled adult athletics may be the right fit for you. 

Individuals who prefer to exercise independently can find a multitude of online videos and other resources. If a crowded gym or fast-paced workout video seems intimidating, you can simply add a daily walk to your routine. Walking is incredibly versatile, as you can take a shorter stroll on busy days and plan longer hikes when you have more time. 

Partnering with a professional is a great place to begin

If you’re ready to take a proactive stance on preventing heart disease, consider scheduling a consultation at Heart and Vascular Care to create a customized plan of action. We’ll review your health history and help you set achievable goals to preserve and enhance your heart health. 

You’ll have a trusted team to turn to when questions and concerns arise. Periodic check-ups can help track your progress and refine your goals. Once you acknowledge that you have considerable control over your heart health, working to establish healthier habits can be incredibly rewarding. 

To schedule a visit, reach out to our office by phone during normal business hours. We also offer easy online booking as an option, giving you the freedom to schedule from home, any time of day.