Heart Health: 10 Resolutions You Should Start Today
Adopting these resolutions can mark the beginning of a healthier heart and lifestyle.
Why are heart health resolutions important?
Maintaining good heart health is more crucial than ever. That’s not surprising, considering the constant demands of work, family, and daily life. Neglecting our cardiovascular well-being is tempting until a problem occurs and gets our attention.
Prioritizing our heart health should be at the top of our resolutions. If we’re ever going to bolster our cardiovascular health and enhance our overall quality of life – why not start today?
Here are 10 practical resolutions you can adopt for better heart health.
#1. Prioritize a heart-healthy diet.
One of the most powerful ways to support heart health is through a well-balanced diet. Include more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, healthy fats, and fiber in your meals.
You should plan your heart-healthy diet to limit your consumption of saturated and trans fats, salt, and added sugars.
#2. Stay physically active.
Physical activity is essential for maintaining a strong and healthy heart. Start slowly and add more activities. You can begin with 5-10 minutes of exercise daily, increasing time and intensity as you become more active.
Physical Activity includes walking, jogging, cycling, swimming, dancing, or any other activity that increases your heart rate. Strength training exercises can also help improve heart health by increasing muscle mass and metabolism.
Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity each week.
If you haven’t exercised in a while, consult your healthcare provider before beginning any regular physical activity program.
#3. Manage stress.
Chronic stress can take a toll on your heart. Practice stress-reduction techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, yoga, or mindfulness to help manage daily stressors.
Make your self-care a priority and find healthy ways to cope with stress. These simple steps can significantly benefit your heart health.
#4. Quit smoking.
If you're a smoker, quitting is one of the most beneficial steps you can take to protect your heart. Smoking increases your risk of heart disease, as it raises blood pressure and damages your blood vessels. Healthcare professionals or smoking cessation programs can help you quit.
#5. Limit alcohol intake.
Excessive alcohol consumption can contribute to heart problems. While moderate alcohol consumption may have some heart benefits, it's crucial not to overindulge. One drink per day for women and two for men is the maximum recommended limit for most adults.
#6. Get enough sleep.
Quality sleep is essential for heart health. Aim for 7-9 hours of uninterrupted sleep each night. Poor sleep can lead to weight gain, increased stress, and other factors that negatively impact your heart.
#7. Monitor your blood pressure.
High blood pressure is a significant risk factor for heart disease. Check your blood pressure regularly and consult your healthcare provider to help manage it more effectively.
Lifestyle changes, medication, or a combination of both may be necessary to keep your blood pressure within a healthy range.
#8. Control cholesterol levels.
High cholesterol levels can clog your arteries and increase your risk of heart attack and stroke. To maintain healthy cholesterol levels, reduce saturated and trans fats in your diet. Consult with your doctor for an initial cholesterol test and follow-up.
#9. Maintain a healthy weight.
Excess weight, especially around the abdomen, increases your risk of heart disease. Aim for a healthy weight through a combination of diet and exercise. Consult a healthcare professional for guidance on setting realistic weight loss goals.
#10. Stay informed and engage in regular check-ups.
Finally, stay informed about your heart health. Attend regular check-ups with your healthcare provider. Know your family history of heart disease and discuss any concerns or symptoms you may have.
Early detection and management of heart issues can be lifesaving.
Why should you invest in a heart-healthy future?
These 10 heart health resolutions can serve as the foundation of your future. As we journey into the new year, commit to your well-being and embrace one or all of these resolutions.
Where do I start?
Small, consistent steps toward a heart-healthy lifestyle can yield a longer, healthier, more enjoyable life.
The most important resolution to adopt is the one you can stick to.
If you have questions about heart-healthy habits, consult your healthcare provider or contact the Moultrie County Health Department. Our office provides:
- Free blood pressure and weight checks.
- Laboratory services (cash, Medicare, Medicaid, and most insurances accepted)
- Heart health information and other resources
We look forward to being part of your journey toward a healthier life!