Emergency No: 08062136599
Cardiology | by BMB | Published on 18/04/2022
As we age, our bodies undergo numerous changes, and so do our organs, including the heart. With time, the heart muscles tend to lose their strength, making you more vulnerable to various heart ailments. Even the best heart doctors in Kolkata suggest that seniors are highly susceptible to heart attacks, stroke and heart failure. Not to forget that heart diseases are not only life-threatening but can also have a drastic impact on the quality of the patient’s life. Luckily, most of these can be easily managed with the help of healthy lifestyle changes.
Here are a few heart-healthy habits that can lower your risks of various heart-related diseases, as listed by the best cardiologist in Kolkata.
Stay Active - There is a common misconception that elderlies should give rest to their joints and avoid physical activities, however, doctors suggest that staying active not only benefits the joints but the heart as well. Elderlies need to aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise a week and if you plan to go for rigorous activities, 75 minutes in a month is sufficient. Also, if you do not wish to join a gym, you can opt for walking, yoga, and swimming. Even daily activities like gardening and yardwork are helpful. If you have an existing heart problem, you might need to refrain from strenuous activities, so it is always a better idea to consult your doctor in such cases.
Eat wisely - As per the experts from the best cardiac center in Kolkata, a healthy diet is the key to a healthy heart., irrespective of your age. Elderlies should focus on having a plant-based diet that includes green leafy vegetables, fruits, and vegetables. Be careful while buying your grocery. For instance, while choosing grains or products made from the same, go with whole grains. These include brown rice, barley, millet, and oatmeal. When it comes to choosing dairy products, prioritize low-fat milk and milk products over regular ones. As far as fats are concerned, be very careful with your choice of fats and choose unsaturated ones over saturated ones. Avoid using too much sugar and salt in your food and strike off sugary drinks, processed foods, and fried foods from the list. Practice portion control and eat small meals after regular intervals.
Watch the weighing scale - Many people tend to gain weight as they grow old, however, most people do not realize how it is going to impact their health. Every pound of weight you gain puts an additional strain on your heart, putting you at a higher risk of developing a variety of heart ailments. Maintaining a healthy weight does not require any rocket science. All you need to do is follow an active lifestyle and track your calorie intake. You can also refer to a diet specialist to get a personalized diet plan. Also making small changes such as walking while talking on a phone, taking a stroll after lunch and dinner, practicing portion control, and taking the stairs instead of the elevator can help.
Check your cholesterol - Cholesterol is a fat-like substance that is derived from animal sources. It is broadly categorized into two types HDL (high-density lipoprotein) and LDL (low-density lipoprotein). The former is known as good cholesterol and the latter is known as bad cholesterol. As important as it is to reduce the intake of LDL, it is equally important to take HDL, as it helps to lower the risks of plaque build-up, which can otherwise block the arteries and elevate the risks of serious heart diseases.
Apart from these, you also need to manage your blood sugar and blood pressure. Going for regular health checks is mandatory for timely assessment of your heart health. To know more about the same, consult the experts from the best heart hospital in Kolkata today.
