Simple Steps to a Healthy Heart After 60: What You Need to Know
Your heart, often called the “ticker,” works hard to keep you going, especially as you age. But did you know that as you celebrate more birthdays, your risk of heart disease can increase? The National Institute on Aging warns that once you hit 65, your chances of heart issues like strokes and heart attacks rise.
Why does this happen? Well, as we get older, our arteries can become stiff, plaque can build up in them, and our heart muscles may change, leading to heart problems. Plus, our bodies change too. Our resistance to insulin can go up, making diabetes more likely, and joint pains or arthritis might make it harder to exercise, reducing our aerobic fitness.
But here’s the good news: while we can’t change our age, we can control certain habits to improve our heart health. Doctors agree that one big thing to watch out for is what we eat. Specifically, cutting down on sodium and highly processed foods can make a big difference.
Too much salt can raise our blood pressure, putting stress on our hearts and blood vessels. And studies have shown that diets high in processed foods can increase our risk of heart problems. Instead, focus on eating whole, unprocessed foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and nuts. Use healthier oils like olive or avocado instead of butter or coconut oil.
But it’s not just about what you eat. Staying active is crucial too. Regular exercise helps control sugar levels, improves good cholesterol, and lowers blood pressure, all of which are great for your heart. And if you smoke, quitting can significantly reduce your risk of heart disease.
Finally, don’t skip those doctor appointments. Sometimes, signs of heart trouble aren’t obvious, so regular check-ups are important for catching any issues early.
Remember, your heart works hard for you, so take care of it by making these simple changes. Your ticker will thank you!
(Adapted from Parade)
https://parade.com/health/worst-habit-for-heart-health-over-60-according-to-cardiologists