The heart works very hard to help pump blood throughout the body and supply it with oxygen and nutrients. Keeping your heart in healthy working condition can not only make you feel better but also prolong your life. Below are a few simple things you can do to keep your heart in healthy condition.
Exercise
Exercise is one of the best things you can do for your heart. Not only does it help your heart to become stronger but it also helps it to work more efficiently. Just 30 minutes a day of good vigorous exercise is enough to get your heart pumping and the blood flowing better. Some great exercises for the heart include walking, jogging and even swimming.
Eat Better
Eating better is one of the best things you can do for your heart as well as your body. Getting the right amount of vitamins, minerals and nutrients can help the body perform better and continue running well. Avocados, walnuts and beans are some of the best heart-healthy foods. They help the heart to naturally run more efficiently.
Rule Out Any Symptoms
One of the best ways to remain heart healthy is to rule out any signs and symptoms of any problems. One of the number one things is to get rid of heartburn. Heartburn often confuses some people into thinking they are having heart problems because both do affect the chest area. Instead rule out heartburn by taking an over-the-counter chew-able, drinking some milk or speaking with your doctor.
No Smoking
More and more over the years people are noticing the harmful effects of smoking. Not only does it cause respiratory problems but it can also cause lung cancer and even heart disease for some. Quitting smoking and avoiding second-hand smoke is a great way to make your heart healthier.
Drink Plenty Of Water
Drinking plenty of water has a variety of great impacts on the mind as well as the body. It helps to flush the body of waste and toxins and can also help to maintain good blood pressure. Many experts recommend a minimum of 5 to 10 glasses of water every day. To help encourage yourself to drink water carry a reusable water bottle around at all times and add flavor to it naturally by squeezing different types of fruits into the water.
Lose Weight
Losing weight often goes hand-in-hand with exercising and eating better. All three mixed together can make your heart healthier and stronger. Losing unnecessary body fat, especially around the midsection can have many benefits for the heart. Carrying excess weight causes the heart to work harder and possibly flow slower. Instead try to remain at a healthy body weight.
Manage Stress
Stress plays a big part in heart health for some. Stress can cause a raise in blood pressure putting unnecessary strain on the heart. Stress can also cause anxiety and tension. It is best to manage stress before it becomes a problem. Some good ways to manage stress are exercise, reading and even speaking to friends or professionals about your stress.
Overall there are many different things you can do to keep your heart healthy. Staying active and maintaining a healthy weight are the two key factors. Aside from that avoiding smoking, sipping on heart healthy tea and consistently keeping up with your doctor should help keep you in good general health.