At Corrielus Cardiology, we are passionate about guiding our patients to a heart-healthy lifestyle. Physical activity, healthy eating, stress management, and regular follow-up checks all come into play when protecting your heart health.
During your cardiac screening, our team will provide you with personalized advice on how these habits can become your best gear against heart diseases.
Physical activity isn’t only the most effective method to manage your weight, it’s also the best strategy against heart disease. In his insightful book, Healing The Spartan, Dr. Corrielus shares that if he had to prioritize a single habit above all the rest, he would choose exercising to improve his patient’s heart health.
According to the American Heart Association (AHA), it is recommended to engage in 2.5 hours of heart-pumping physical activity per week. If this is a new habit for you, you can start slowly and begin by gradually implementing physical activity into your daily routine.
Depending on your age, health state, and experience with physical activity, your doctor will help you determine the appropriate exercise program for you. The kind of exercises your doctor will suggest may range from the following options:
- Aerobic exercise or cardio: Running, jogging, and biking aim to increase your heart rate enough in order to train your body to move oxygen and blood more efficiently.
- Stretching: Gently doing this exercise will help your body become more flexible, and it can help prevent your muscles from tensing up.
- Strength training. Weights, resistance bands, and using your own body weight can help build your muscles while increasing your strength.
Feeling mildly sore after a couple of training days is normal and usually disappears on its own. However, there are some signs that can help you identify when your body is not responding properly to exercise.
If you notice any of the following symptoms, it is important to stop immediately and seek prompt medical care:
- Pain or pressure in your chest
- Sudden cold sweat
- Trouble breathing
- Very fast and uneven heart rate
- Feeling dizzy, lightheaded, or very tired
High levels of cholesterol in your blood can lead to plaque buildup in the arteries, increasing the risk of suffering from a stroke.
Eating a balanced and healthy diet full of nutrients and fiber is one of the key steps to prevent heart disease effectively. During your cardiac screening, Dr. Corrielus will provide proper guidance and will personalize a dietary plan that aligns with your personal needs.
Here’s an example of what a heart-healthy diet should look like:
If you like sugary drinks along with your food, try adding water to your fruit to make the transition to cutting sugary drinks easier. Remember that your body needs to stay properly hydrated, and drinking simple water is the best way to achieve that.
Stress can severely impact your mental health while also causing physical symptoms like an upset stomach, increased anxiety, and sweaty hands. If not handled properly, stress can indirectly impact your heart health by affecting your sleep, food choices, and exercise.
Simple lifestyle adjustments can contribute to managing stress properly. These changes may include practicing stress-reducing techniques, avoiding triggers such as caffeine or alcohol consumption, and ensuring sufficient rest and sleep.
People with diabetes are twice as likely to suffer from heart diseases or strokes since high blood sugar can cause damage to the blood vessels and heart nerves. To avoid complications, try to manage your insulin and cholesterol levels while keeping your blood sugar and pressure within the target range set by your doctor.
Regular follow-up visits are essential to identify and manage any heart issues promptly. Our team at Corrielus Cardiology will work with you to create a care plan tailored to your needs, including scheduled visits and necessary tests or screenings.
Your journey to robust heart health is a lifelong commitment, and we shall be your partner every step of the way. From your very first appointment to ongoing post-surgery or post-visit follow-ups, we ensure that your cardiovascular care is continuous and fully supportive.
To schedule a cardiac consultation with Dr. Corrielus, please call us or book an appointment online.