Everyone is different, but genetics play a big role in a person’s health throughout their life. One of the best things you can do for the ones you love is prioritize heart health. There are many ways to do so, individually and together, and turn them into habits that last beyond Heart Health Month.
Heart Health for the Whole Family
Take a proactive approach to heart health, so you are more likely to follow through on goals.
- Physical activity. Thirty minutes of moderate exercise nearly every day gets the heart rate up and the body moving, whether you like to walk, run, hike, swim, or play a sport.
- Meal planning. Weekly meal planning can save you from resorting to unhealthy alternatives. Take time to prep and stock pantry and fridge with lean proteins, whole grains, fruits, and veggies – heart healthy ingredients.
- Mental health management. Everyone gets stressed, but too much stress can be bad on a heart, especially for someone with chronic heart disease. Spend time in nature together or try yoga or deep breathing.
- Visit your doctor. Schedule routine check-ups to manage movement, nutrition, chronic conditions, cardiovascular health, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels,.
Heart Health Age by Age – Challenges and Successes
- Children and teens. Put the power in kids’ hands. They can plan or cook a meal. Task them to select a new park or hiking spot. Minimize screen time too, not only for brains but bodies and to help kids from developing sedentary habits, which threaten heart health.
- Adults. Adulthood and midlife are child-rearing years, taking care of elderly parents. Stress, grief, sickness, and depression can impact cardiovascular health. It can be hard to take good care of yourself and exercise and quality eating can fall to the wayside.
- Seniors. Limited mobility, diet restrictions, or ongoing age-related complications plague many older adults. Prioritize nutrition, movement, and care to keep senior hearts healthier.
Getting Past Limitations to Keep Your Heart Healthy
- Think positive. People can suffer health complications and limitations at any age. These circumstances can make it difficult to get enough exercise, feel energized to make healthy meals, or support others in their own heart health journey. Stay positive as you work toward progress, even if your body works against you.
- Exercise bursts. If you are averse to exercising in a gym or as a defined activity, take five-minute walks throughout the day. Set alerts to do jumping jacks or squats at the top of the hour. If you reach 30 minutes of movement a day, you’re helping your heart – and vigorous house cleaning counts.
- Make tweaks. You don’t have to deprive yourself of the foods you love to eat healthy. For example, mix dark chocolate in your plain oatmeal and top with fruit. It’s yummy and good for you.
Take Heart Health Seriously
I treat patients of all ages and stages of life and take great joy in helping everyone feel their best so they can enjoy their family. Let me, Dr. Jon Swetech, help you prioritize heart health. Make an appointment at my practice today.
Nothing in this blog is official medical advice. See your doctor for customized care.
