The bad news: heart disease is the number one cause of death in America,
killing more people each year than AIDS and all forms of cancer combined.
The good news: 80 percent of heart disease is preventable. And, prevention
is easier than you might think.
These simple lifestyle changes can have life-saving impact:
Get quality sleep. Small differences, like changing your bedtime routine or turning off
screens at night, can make a big difference. Most adults need between
seven and nine hours of sleep every night. If you are having trouble sleeping, contact
Altru’s Sleep Center.
Eat healthfully. Boost your heart health by eating at least five servings of vegetables
and fruits every day. Need help? Contact
Altru’s registered dietitians.
Be physically active. If you’re not already hitting the gym regularly, start small by
going for short walks throughout the day. As always,
check with your doctor before starting a new exercise routine.
If you smoke, quit. Smoking cessation is particularly important in controlling and preventing
heart disease. For more information about quitting, visit with
Altru’s tobacco cessation specialists.
Know your numbers. Blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol and weight can all play a
factor in heart health.
Schedule regular appointments with your doctor to keep tabs on these key numbers.
Manage stress. Under stress, you may react with unhealthy behaviors, like skipping a
workout, overeating or smoking. Relax or do something you enjoy for at
least 10 minutes daily.
