NEW PREVENTION GUIDELINES ROOTED IN OLD WISDOM
The new guidelines for the prevention of cardiovascular disease tell us that we should include get active; eat better; lose weight; stop smoking; and manage blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol.
The American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology released new guidelines March 17 that help people live healthier, longer lives. The guidelines use the most recent science to guide doctors as they help people stay healthy. The guidelines contain old wisdom that we are familiar with as a heart healthy lifestyle is the most important way to prevent.
There are a few new recommendations in the guidelines including taking aspirin for secondary prevention after talking with your doctor about risks, looking at the “whole” patient in treatment and recommendations, accounting for social determinants of health and diet recommendations including limiting processed meats and reducing sweetened drink intake.
The guidelines are a science-based roadmap of recommendations to help adults lower their risk for heart attacks, stroke, heart failure or other cardiovascular diseases. They reflect the Association’s emphasis on Life’s Simple 7®, seven factors for good heart health. Talk with your health care provider and see how you can improve your Life’s Simple 7:
Manage Blood Pressure
High blood pressure is a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke. When your blood pressure stays within healthy ranges, you reduce the strain on your heart, arteries, and kidneys – all of which keeps you healthier longer. Learn how to manage your blood pressure.
Control Cholesterol
Unhealthy levels of cholesterol contributes to plaque, which can lead to heart disease and stroke. When you control your cholesterol, you are giving your arteries their best chance to remain clear of blockages. Learn how to control your cholesterol.
Reduce Blood Sugar
Most of the food we eat is turned into glucose (or blood sugar) that our bodies use for energy. Over time, high levels of blood sugar can damage your heart, kidneys, eyes and nerves. Learn how to reduce your blood sugar.
Get Active
Living an active life is one of the most rewarding gifts you can give yourself and those you love. Simply put, daily physical activity increases your length and quality of life. Learn how to get active and move more.
Eat Better
A healthy diet is one of your best weapons for fighting cardiovascular diseases. When you eat a heart-healthy diet, you improve your chances for feeling good and staying healthy. Learn how to eat better.
Lose Weight
When you shed unnecessary pounds, you reduce the burden on your heart, lungs, blood vessels and skeleton. You also lower your blood pressure and you help yourself feel better, too. Learn how to lose or manage weight.
Stop Smoking
Cigarette smokers have a higher risk of developing cardiovascular diseases. If you smoke, quitting is the best thing you can do for your health. Learn how to stop smoking.
Take the free Life’s Simple 7 personal assessment to see where you can make improvements. Life’s Simple 7 is a road map to improve health and enhance quality of life. The small choices made each day, add up to better your health.
How are you going to be a healthier you?
