The heart is known as many things: “the powerhouse of the body,” “the body’s engine,” and even “the very center of life.” But did you know that in the US, heart attacks, stroke, and peripheral arterial disease–collectively known as atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD)–occurs in 1 in 3 men and women.
With ASCVD being so prevalent today, and as we conclude Heart health Month, it is more important than ever to live a heart-healthy lifestyle. Viet Le, PA-C, recently discussed some of the things that can be done to keep our hearts as healthy as possible.
Know the factors that put you at risk
Though risks are always there, some aspects of heart health are under your control. Make sure that you are aware of the things in your life that you can modify.
Watch your blood pressure
When talking about blood pressure Le says, “Nearly 40 million US adults have high blood pressure (hypertension), defined as an elevated systolic- or diastolic-blood pressure, ≥130/≥80.” Lifestyle changes and sometimes medications are two ways to help lower your blood pressure.
Control glucose levels
Glucose is vital for fueling the cells in your body. However, too much can begin to harm multiple organs, including the walls of our arteries. In time, this may lead to atherosclerosis, heart attack, stroke, or peripheral artery disease.
Get out and be active
Both the US 2018 physical activity guidelines and the American Heart Association recommend 150 minutes a week of moderate aerobic activity for optimal health benefits. Le advises, “Attaining ideal body weight and increasing activity can help manage optimal glucose levels and thus reduce your risk of developing plaque and the events of heart attack, stroke, and peripheral artery disease.”
Knowing, and then acting on these principles is a great way for everyone to ensure their heart health is in the right place. Now is the time to make heart health a priority, but Viet also emphasized that it is a process. “Try not to do it all at once or feel bad for missing days or times. Health is a journey!”
