365Telugu.com online news, December 5th,2024: The heart is one of the most crucial organs in the human body, and thus, heart health is of utmost importance. Over the past few years, heart disease cases have been rapidly increasing worldwide.
A few decades ago, heart-related problems were mostly seen in individuals over the age of 60. However, today, heart problems can affect anyone, regardless of age. Heart diseases have become life-threatening, and health experts urge everyone to be more cautious about their heart health.
Facts About Heart Diseases
Cardiovascular diseases (CVD), which include heart-related conditions, were responsible for an estimated 17.9 million deaths worldwide in 2019. 85% of these deaths were due to heart attacks and strokes. According to the World Health Organization, heart disease cases are more common in developing countries compared to developed nations.
Who Is Most Affected by Heart Problems?
Heart diseases are not age-dependent, and they can affect anyone. Health experts stress the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle and being mindful of diet from a young age.
Individuals with obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure (hypertension), smokers, and those who consume excessive alcohol are at a higher risk of developing heart disease. People who sit for long periods during work, and those who frequently consume junk or processed foods, are also more likely to face heart problems.
Preventive Measures
After the age of 40, certain tests should be conducted regularly to identify any potential risks.
Avoid fast foods, adulterated food, and drugs.
Walk for at least one hour every day and work on losing weight.
Avoid foods that increase fat, like excessive salt, sugar, and fatty products.
Reducing mental stress is crucial for heart health.
Ensure adequate sleep every night.
If you experience chest pain, visit a doctor immediately.
Maintain a balanced, nutritious diet and engage in regular exercise.
A cholesterol level of 200 mg/dL is considered normal. Levels above 239 mg/dL are harmful to the heart.
Which Foods Are Beneficial for Heart Health?
Leafy Greens: These are rich in Vitamin “K” and nitrates, which help reduce blood pressure and improve the function of blood vessels. Consuming more leafy greens can reduce the risk of heart disease.
Whole Grains: Refined carbohydrates increase the risk of coronary heart disease, while whole grains help protect the heart.
Berries: Rich in antioxidants, berries such as strawberries and blueberries can reduce heart disease-related issues. Including them in your diet is essential for heart health.
Fatty Fish: Omega-3 fatty acids found in fatty fish and fish oils help reduce blood pressure, triglycerides, cholesterol, and overall heart disease risk factors.
Walnuts: Studies show that walnuts can significantly help reduce cholesterol and blood pressure levels, thus lowering the risk of heart disease.
By adopting these preventive measures and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, the risk of heart disease can be significantly reduced.