Follow these life hacks to get your heart in shape

1.  Eat a Plant Rich Diet

Eating non-nutritional junk food has become a norm in the American diet and it is killing us.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture estimates that 32% of our calories come from animal sources, 57% from processed plant foods, and only 11% from non-bleached grains, beans, fruits, vegetables, and nuts.  Plant-based food is essential to heal the body and protect your heart.

2. Stop Smoking

34.3 million people on this planet still smoke. Smoking is horrible for your cardiovascular health. If you smoke, quit. Your heart will thank you.

3.  Maintain a Healthy Body Weight

BMI is a better indicator of a healthy size than just weight alone.  Recommended BMI as a goal should be 20-25. The more weight you carry the harder your organs and skeletal structure all have to work. Give your body a break and stay within range.

4.  Get Up and Move

30 minutes of movement a day is the minimum. Go for a walk, stretch, do some yard work or work around the house, bike, swim, run, go to the gym, just get that blood flowing and muscles moving.

5.  You Need to Sleep

Seven to eight hours a night is ideal. Less and you may be cutting your life expectancy. Your body needs this time to rest, repair, and heal. That goes for your heart as well as the rest of you.

6.  Don’t Ignore – Test

If you notice an issue or are at high risk due to heredity, don’t wait. Get it checked out. The Tampa Cardiovascular Associates want you to know that with advanced blood work you can detect heart disease a decade before you have a heart attack.

Check your cholesterol and advanced cholesterol

Your three-month sugar numbers

Your A1C

Your inflammation

Your high sensitivity C-reactive protein

Your homocysteine level

Your lipoprotein A

Your vitamin D

7. Use the Sauna

Infrared saunas have been shown to improve the function of the cells that line the arteries.

The infrared light on the spectrum is the one that is able to penetrate our skin and activate our energy system.  Studies suggest that regular sauna sessions can help stabilize blood pressure.  An infrared sauna can help you and your heart stay healthy. Saunas also help your body rid itself of toxins through sweat much like exercise.

These have been our helpful self care tips for keeping your heart healthy.

Visit www.tampacardio.com or call 813-975-2800 to schedule an appointment.