Every day, patients visit Long Island hospitals to seek urgent heart treatments. Most of these disruptive and risky emergencies could be prevented. The New York Times reports that less than three out of 100 Americans eat nutritious diets, maintain safe fat levels, exercise regularly and forgo cigarettes. You can keep your heart healthy by adopting such goals and following these tips:
1. Avoid Fat and Salt
Make sure less than one-third of the calories in your diet come from fat. Look at "calories from fat" under "amount per serving" on the nutrition facts. Try to cut your sodium intake as well. Choose natural foods like lettuce, tomatoes, apples and brown rice. Dark chocolate delivers beneficial flavonoids that prevent heart disease.
2. Healthy Drinks
The right beverages will also make a difference. Various studies have revealed that both black and green teas avert heart problems. Be careful not to counteract the benefits with too much creamer. Wine can protect arteries and minimize blood clots, but it will only improve your health if you drink it in moderation.
3. Extra Exercise
Don't spend too much time on the sofa or office chair. Try to fit in a walk, and use the stairs instead of an elevator. Volunteer to vacuum the carpets rather than letting someone else do it. Yoga can help you by reducing stress and promoting a healthy heart rate.
- Play tennis
- Rent a kayak
- Lift weights
4. Sleep Well
Get the right amount of slumber. Try to stay asleep for seven or eight hours with few interruptions. "Burning the candle at both ends" could shorten your life. The results of a medical study revealed that people become more prone to heart disease when they remain in bed for at least nine or less than six hours.
5. Laugh More
Humor doesn't just improve your mood. Researchers have found that laughter helps blood vessels work properly and promotes adequate circulation. If you don't chuckle often enough, watch more comedies at the theater or spend some time with an amusing friend.
You can't always avoid heart problems on your own. The professionals at Peconic Bay Medical Center help patients manage their blood pressure and cholesterol levels. This facility also has sophisticated equipment that enables doctors to treat heart disease and hypertension. To learn more about these services, please contact our Long Island medical center by calling (631) 548-6000.