7 Ways to Protect Your Heart Health

Heart disease has been the leading cause of death in the United States since 1950. The good news? It’s one of the most preventable diseases in the US.

Gerard Acloque Jr., MD, at Florida Concierge Medicine & Wellness in Hollywood, Florida, specializes in comprehensive preventive care that helps you achieve your best physical and emotional health.

Always interested in providing the information you need to make decisions about your health, Dr. Acloque shares these seven strategies for protecting your heart:

1. Get established with a primary care physician

A primary care doctor has expertise in preventing, diagnosing, and treating a broad range of illnesses and injuries. During routine check-ups, Dr. Acloque can identify and manage risk factors for heart disease, such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol, before your heart health declines.

He then creates an individualized strategy that focuses on your long-term health, including schedules for screening tests, nutrition recommendations, and medications or other therapies to combat your risk factors.

If you’ve already developed heart disease, Dr. Acloque can ensure your current treatments effectively manage your condition and create a plan that helps prevent disease progression.

2. Adopt a healthy diet

To promote heart health, eat a nutritious diet low in sodium, processed foods, unhealthy fats, and added sugars. Enjoy fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats, such as omega-3s and extra virgin olive oil, to help reduce your risk of heart disease. 

A heart-healthy diet, along with appropriate medication, is also one of the most successful treatment strategies for those who are already experiencing the effects of heart disease.

3. Engage in regular physical activity

Regular exercise, such as brisk walking, running, cycling, or swimming — for at least 30 minutes a day, five days a week — is good for your heart. Exercise can help you lower blood pressure, reduce cholesterol levels, and maintain a healthy weight to protect your heart and overall health.

4. Maintain a healthy weight

Being overweight increases your risk of developing heart disease, so it's essential to maintain a healthy weight by eating a balanced diet and engaging in regular physical activity. Managing your weight and diet can also prevent diseases that increase your risk of developing heart disease, including diabetes and hypertension.

5. Quit smoking

Smoking damages the lining of your arteries and increases your risk of heart disease. If you smoke or use other kinds of tobacco, quitting is one of the best things you can do for your heart health.

6. Manage stress

Chronic stress can contribute to high blood pressure and other risk factors for heart disease. Adopting stress-management techniques, such as meditation, deep breathing, yoga, or regular exercise, can help reduce your risk.

7. Sleep well

Poor sleep can increase your risk of developing heart disease, so getting enough sleep each night is essential. No matter your age, sticking with a routine at bedtime and creating a restful sleep environment can help you get the seven to eight hours of sleep per night that adults require.

Schedule an evaluation at Florida Concierge Medicine & Wellness today for a customized plan that protects your heart health regardless of your age. Call the office or request an appointment online.