Take Care of Your Heart

Your heart works hard for you nonstop for your whole life. So show it some TLC. If we do not love our self then how can we love anyone else?? There are some things that we can do so that we are living healthier and treating our heart better. After all it is the month of February the month where love is all around and what is better than the greatest love of all?? 

Getting the appropriate amount of sleep is very important. We have heard for years that between 7 and 8 hours of sleep is recommended. The problem occurs when we have those all night study sessions, those nights that we have a bit of fun or whatever we are doing where we just dont get enough sleep. But, I was not aware til now that getting too much sleep is bad for the heart as well. 

Watch the blood pressure as well. Every visit to the doctor you most likely also get your blood pressure checked. This is very important  to make sure that your blood pressure is not increasing which means that your heart is having to work harder. If you have blood pressure issues then you most likely should cut back on salt, limit alcohol, put more fruit, veggies, whole grains and lean protein in your diet. Stress can also harm you by increasing your blood pressure. Working out can help by relieving stress and helping you loose weight. The doctor may also recommend medication

Individuals with high blood sugar diabetes may also be at risk for heart issues. Over time high blood sugar damages arteries and puts you at risk for heart disease. Those 45 years of age or older should have your blood sugar checked at your doctors. Pregnant women or individuals over weight may have other risk factors for diabetes. Life style changes with diet and exercise may help. Medication may be prescribed as well.

Dental health also can affect overall health including your heart. Those with gum disease often have the same risk factors for heart disease. Bacteria in the mouth that has caused gum disease can move through the bloodstream and cause an elevation in c-reactive protein which indicated inflammation in the blood vessels. In turn you may increase your risk of heart disease and stroke. Help yourself by flossing and brushing your teeth daily to ward off gum disease Cavities are only one reason to brush another is to protect your body.

Avoid second hand smoke as the risk of developing heart disease is about 25 to 30 percent higher for people who are exposed to secondhand smoke at home or work. The American Heart Association states that exposure to tobacco smoke contributes to about 34,000 premature heart disease deaths and 7,300 lung cancer deaths each year. Nonsmokers with high blood pressure or high blood cholesterol have an even greater risk of developing heart disease when they are exposed to secondhand smoke. The chemicals emitted from cigarette smoke promotes the development of plaque buildup in the arteries. 

I am in hopes that the information I shared with you will help you live longer with a happy heart