How To Ensure Good Heart Health In Your Middle Years
In the middle years, it's easy to forget that being busy doesn't mean you're being active in the right way. And the body isn't as quick and reactive as it was. Dashing to pick the kids up is not the same as a 30-minute workout. Stresses in life result in more problems for our hearts. And we get it — it's routine. Everybody falls into a pattern of daily life which entails things like getting the kids to school, going to work, taking care of the yard, grocery shopping, DIY on the house. It doesn't leave a lot of time to take care of the most important part in any of those tasks being completed — you.
To avoid an earlier trip than necessary to see the cardiologist, here are some quick and easy ideas to help you stay on top of your game and make sure your ticker isn't a ticking time bomb.
Eat Well
It may be obvious, but so many people don't realize the foods that can actually help your heart. It's not about a focus of calorie intake, but of the foods that actually help our bodies stay strong.
Oily fish, such as salmon, tuna, and mackerel, are all high in omega3 which helps lower blood pressure, blood fats, and more. Snacking on some walnuts or almonds will not just fill you up between meals, but are also a super food for the heart, and there are obvious other benefits to avoiding snacking on chips and chocolate bars. Berries are filled with phytonutrients and fiber which contribute to a healthy heart and body. A well-mixed diet will help improve your heart and overall health.
Drink Less
Nobody is saying that you shouldn't have that glass of well-deserved wine after a hard working week. However it is important to know the balance between healthy and unhealthy amounts of alcohol. Drinking more than the recommended amounts puts unnecessary strain on your heart by causing irregular heart rhythms and high blood pressure.
Get Gentle Exercise
For many, it's simply not possible to go to the gym. That doesn't mean that there's no way to squeeze in some exercise. Make yourself a 10-minute challenge and work up from there. Once the kids are in bed, go relax watching your favorite TV show, but do some at-home exercises while it's on. Just 10 minutes really makes a huge difference to your heart.
If there's anything that's causing you any concern, you can always have a quick chat with a cardiologist to work out the best plan for you. For more information, contact local professionals like those found at Temecula Valley Cardiology.