Your heart is arguably the most important organ in your body. It sends blood and nutrients throughout your entire body! Understandably, people should take proactive measures to keep this important organ functioning at its finest. Consider the following four ways to prevent a heart attack:

Forego Using Tobacco Products

Nicotine and other chemicals found in tobacco products can alter the function of your heart. Due to its altered state, your heart is weakened and is more susceptible to angina or heart attacks. Additionally, the chemicals in a tobacco product can cause plaque to buildup in your arteries. When this occurs, your arteries have a harder time transporting blood that is received from the heart.

Lose Excess Body Fat

Excess body fat, especially around the heart and waist area, demands the heart to work harder. When your fat-to-muscle ratio is proportionate, your heart can thrive! Attaining a healthy fat-to-ratio levels is possible through a healthy diet and exercise.

Start an Exercise Routine

Exercise has a ripple effect that provides incredible benefits to your heart. An exercise routine can cause your levels of high-density lipoprotein, the “good” cholesterol, to rise. HDL cholesterol fights your bad cholesterol that is known to cause heart attacks. To take advantage of these benefits, we recommend at least 30 minutes of exercise each day.

Eat a Healthy Diet

Every part of your body can benefit or suffer from the foods you eat and the drinks you consume. Again, you want to keep the fat around your heart to a minimum. You can do this by eating right and exercising daily! Fill your plate with vegetables, fruit, good protein (found in poultry and fish), nuts, and whole grains.

Ensure Success With These Tips

Altering your lifestyle, even for the very best reasons, can seem like a daunting task. That’s why we suggest these simple tips to ensure success:

• Ask a friend or family member to join you in your mission to get healthy.
• Set daily and attainable goals.
• Write down your accomplishments to be encouraged!
• Talk to a doctor about your health.

The Middle Georgia Heart doctors will be glad to answer any questions you have and guide you on the road toward heart health. Schedule an appointment today.