Author: Sina Nafisi, M.D., FACC
After suffering a heart attack, many patients are suddenly motivated to make drastic changes to their lifestyles. Of course, lifestyle changes don’t always have to be drastic. For some patients, incorporating a basic walking – or other cardiovascular exercise – routine into their week is enough to reduce the risk of heart attack and heart disease.
Walking & Heart Disease
Walking – or any form of cardiovascular activity – can significantly lower your risk for heart disease, high cholesterol, diabetes and other cardiovascular-related health issues.
You may be surprised to learn that risk-factor reduction produced by walking is identical to that produced by running. Read highlights from a study that compared data from the National Runners’ Health Study and the National Walkers’ Health Study here. This is exciting news – especially for patients for whom running is not a viable form of exercise.
Dr. Nafisi’s Five Heart Attack Prevention Tips
- Exercise regularly. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise (or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise) per week, recommends the American Heart Association.
- If you have diabetes, make sure you know how to manage your condition. People who have diabetes are at an increased risk for heart disease and are more likely to develop heart disease at a younger age.
- Reduce stress. Try yoga, meditation or other techniques.
- Eat well. Avoid trans fats and foods that are high in sodium and sugar.
- Talk to your physician about taking a daily aspirin. Studies have shown this therapy to be very effective in reducing the risk of heart attack for patients who meet certain criteria.
Schedule Your Appointment With a Cardiologist in Phoenix
Want more heart attack prevention tips? Concerned about your risk? Schedule an appointment with a cardiologist in Phoenix or Tempe by contacting Phoenix Heart Center.
Please consult with your physician before undertaking any form of medical treatment or adopting any exercise program or dietary guidelines.
