How To Keep A Healthy Heart

Using simple methods and the latest research

Advances in our knowledge of heart disease means that, unlike in years gone by, we can implement ways to keep a healthy heart throughout our lives. Even members of families where there is a genetic link to coronary heart disease can decrease their chances of succumbing to the illness by learning, with very simple methods, how to keep a healthy heart.
 
Of course, one of the main ways not to keep a healthy heart is by smoking. It’s well documented that smoking can cause diseases such as lung cancer and respiratory illness. Perhaps less well known is that smoking is also bad for the heart, mainly because it leads to clogged arteries and increased blood pressure, two of the most threatening conditions for the health of your heart. It goes without saying that in order keep a healthy heart you should either stop smoking, or even better, not start in the first place.

Surprisingly, recent research suggests a strong link between heart disease and oral health, although it is not yet known exactly why. Gum disease in particular can indicate possible cardiovascular problems such as atherosclerosis, or thickening and hardening of the arteries. Scientists have suggested that the same bacteria that cause gingivitis may cause inflammation of the arteries. It follows, therefore, that if you practice good oral hygiene you may also be helping to keep a healthy heart.  So, brush regularly, floss daily and visit your dentist for checkups.

Diet is another major factor in determining the health of your heart, so try to eat a healthy heart diet rich in goodness . Some foods that are particularly good if you want to keep a healthy heart are those high in omega-3 fatty acids. An excellent source of omega-3 is fatty fish such as salmon, herring and fresh tuna. Walnuts are particularly high in omega-3 fatty acids, as are cold-pressed oils such as flaxseed and olive. Studies have shown that other food types which you can eat to keep a healthy heart include fruit, vegetables and wholegrain. Foods to avoid are those high in saturated fats and salt.

Eating to keep a healthy heart will have the added benefit of helping you lose weight. Fat in the body is bad for your heart, particularly around the abdomen. Speed up the weight loss and add another plus factor to keeping a healthy heart by taking up exercise. Try to find something you enjoy doing which can be incorporated into your daily routine. Walking is an excellent way to take exercise, but you could try dancing, bouncing on a trampoline, swimming or aerobics. It doesn’t matter what you do, as long as you do it.

The methods we’ve talked about can and should be used for the whole family. Think how great it will be to know that you’re teaching every member of your family how to keep a healthy heart!