Heart-Healthy

6 habits for a healthy heart

Augusta University Health advises on heart-healthy living

If you’re worried about your heart health, you’re not alone. According to the CDC, cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in men and women. Fortunately for us, the first steps toward preventing cardiovascular disease start with getting our healthy habits back on track. Here are some steps you can take for a heart-healthy lifestyle:

1. Monitor your blood pressure.

The American Heart Association recommends a home monitor for those with high blood pressure. As you make lifestyle changes or adjust medications, you’ll want to track your blood pressure in order to measure progress.

2. Lose weight if you need to.

A higher body mass index (BMI) means a higher risk for heart disease.

3. Keep a heart-healthy diet.

This includes limiting saturated and trans fats, as well as emphasizing fruits, vegetables and whole grains.

4. Quit smoking.

Smoking increases the risk of heart disease and discourages healthy habits such as physical activity.

5. Commit to exercise.

For overall cardiovascular health, aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise at least five days a week, or at least 25 minutes of vigorous aerobic exercise at least three days a week. For additional benefits, try adding muscle-strengthening activities.

6. Manage stress.

Stress may impact other risk factors for heart disease by increasing your blood pressure, raising cholesterol levels and tempting you to overeat.

Take our Healthy Heart Quiz and find out your risk of cardiovascular disease.

To find out what makes Augusta University Cardiovascular Center for Heart Care the premier heart and vascular center in the area, call us at 706-664-0584 to request a same-day appointment. Or, visit augustahealth.org/cardio to learn about our heart rhythm services, locations and providers.

About the author

Augusta University Health

Based in Augusta, Georgia, Augusta University Health is a world-class health care network, offering the most comprehensive primary, specialty and subspecialty care in the region. Augusta University Health provides skilled, compassionate care to its patients, conducts leading-edge clinical research and fosters the medical education and training of tomorrow’s health care practitioners. Augusta University Health is a not-for-profit corporation that manages the clinical operations associated with Augusta University.

1 Comment

  • Hi, Nancy.

    Thank you for reading our blog! I hope that you’ve found it to be a helpful source of health-related information.

    Because each and every patient deserves a personalized treatment plan, we do not give general responses about health concerns. To make an appointment, please call 706-721-2273 (CARE) between the hours of 7:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

    Thank you, and all the best to you in your health!