Dr. Christopher Broyd, a leading cardiologist, reveals five surprising habits that could be negatively impacting your cardiovascular health. From lack of exercise and chronic stress to insufficient sleep and social isolation, these overlooked factors can significantly increase your risk of heart disease. Learn how to make positive changes and prioritize your heart health.
While the importance of a balanced diet and avoiding smoking for heart health is widely known, there are five lesser-known habits that can significantly impact cardiovascular well-being. Dr. Christopher Broyd, a leading cardiologist, discusses these everyday actions that might be jeopardizing your heart health .One of the biggest culprits is a sedentary lifestyle.
'A sedentary lifestyle can lead to weight gain, high cholesterol, and increased blood pressure, all of which increase your risk for cardiovascular disease,' warns Dr. Broyd. 'Regular exercise is crucial for heart health.' However, the key is not to feel pressured into intense gym routines. 'Begin with simple activities like walking, stretching, or using a stationary bike,' recommends Dr. Broyd. 'Even short bursts of activity, such as 10-minute walks, can add up over time and gradually increase your stamina.' Most importantly, choose activities you enjoy. 'Whether it's dancing, swimming, cycling, or playing a team sport, finding something fun makes it easier to stay motivated,' advises Dr. Broyd. 'Try to pick a time of day that works best for you and stick to it, whether it's in the morning, during lunch breaks, or in the evening.' Chronic stress, stemming from demanding jobs or family issues, can also take a toll on your heart. 'Prolonged stress can negatively affect the heart by raising blood pressure and increasing the risk of heart attack or stroke,' Dr. Broyd explains. 'Stress also encourages unhealthy coping mechanisms, like overeating or smoking.' The cardiologist emphasizes the importance of effective stress management techniques. 'Regular physical activity, such as walking, yoga, or exercise, can help release built-up tension and improve mood by boosting endorphins,' suggests Dr. Broyd. 'Some find that mindfulness techniques like meditation, deep breathing, or progressive muscle relaxation can calm the mind and reduce stress levels.'Prioritizing sleep is equally vital. 'Lack of sleep or poor-quality sleep can increase blood pressure, contribute to obesity, and disrupt the body's natural repair processes,' Dr. Broyd points out. 'Sleep disorders like sleep apnea can also significantly affect heart health.' To promote restful sleep, Dr. Broyd recommends establishing a regular sleep routine. 'Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends,' he advises. 'This helps regulate your body's internal clock and promotes a more consistent sleep pattern.' Engaging in calming activities before bed, such as reading, is also beneficial, while avoiding stimulating activities like watching intense TV shows is encouraged. Additionally, limit your intake of caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol in the evening, as they can interfere with sleep.Not getting enough sunlight can also have detrimental effects. 'A lack of sunlight exposure can lead to vitamin D deficiency, which has been linked to higher blood pressure, inflammation, and an increased risk of heart disease,' says Dr. Broyd. He recommends safe sun exposure or supplementation to support heart health. This is particularly crucial during winter months, so taking short breaks outside during work is beneficial.Finally, social isolation or feelings of loneliness can escalate your risk of heart disease, according to Dr. Broyd. He explains that 'studies have shown that loneliness can trigger stress, raise blood pressure, and negatively affect immune function, all of which can harm heart health.' For those experiencing loneliness, Dr. Broyd advises reaching out to friends or family, or even joining a new club. He emphasizes that combating loneliness requires proactive measures.
HEART HEALTH CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE STRESS MANAGEMENT EXERCISE SLEEP HYGIENE SOCIAL ISOLATION
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