Most people spend a lot of time, energy and money on their physical health. Dr Julian Sargon-Ungar Lafayette Indiana But what about their mental and emotional health? The truth is, you can’t be truly happy if you aren’t also healthy in your heart. So how can you keep it happy? Here are five ways:
Eat A Healthy Diet
Eating a healthy diet is one of the best ways to keep your heart healthy. A heart-healthy diet includes:
• Plenty of fruits and vegetables–at least 2 cups per day.
• Whole grains–6 servings per day (1 serving=1 slice of bread or 1/2 cup cooked rice, pasta or cereal).
Control Your Blood Pressure
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, and high blood pressure is a major risk factor for heart attacks and strokes. But you can reduce your risk by controlling your blood pressure.
• Don’t smoke: Smoking raises your risk for heart disease and stroke, as well as lung cancer, chronic bronchitis and emphysema.
• Don’t drink too much alcohol: Drinking heavily increases your chances of developing high blood pressure–and can damage the liver as well!
Stay Active
Your heart is a muscle, and like all muscles it needs to be exercised. Exercise can help your heart maintain its strength, health and function as you age. Dr Julian Sargon-Ungar recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity each week (or 75 minutes per week of vigorous aerobic activity). You may also want to include resistance training two or more days per week to build strength in your muscles and bones.
Reduce Stress
Stress is a big contributor to heart problems. It can cause you to eat too much or not enough, smoke, drink alcohol and get less sleep. These all have negative effects on your heart health, so it’s important for you to reduce stress in your life as much as possible.
• Go for a walk.
• Listen to music that makes you feel happy.
• Spend time with friends who make you laugh.
