7 Essential Lifestyle Tips to Prevent Heart Attacks and Strokes: Your Guide to a Healthier Life – The Times of India

Heart disease and strokes are serious health issues today. These conditions affect many people, especially due to urban lifestyles and unhealthy eating habits. In fact, heart disease is the leading cause of death worldwide, and India accounts for a significant portion of these cases. A recent study shows that about 25% of cardiovascular deaths in India are due to strokes, highlighting a need for urgent action.

To tackle this growing crisis, adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle is crucial. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that up to 80% of premature heart attacks and strokes can be prevented through lifestyle changes and effective public health strategies.

Here are some simple lifestyle changes that can help reduce the risk of heart disease and strokes:

• Stay Active: Regular physical activity is key. Aim for 30 to 45 minutes of exercise three to four times a week. This can include walking, gardening, or even cleaning your home. Being active helps control weight, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels.
• Manage Stress: Chronic stress can increase the risk of heart problems. Find healthy ways to cope, like exercising, practicing mindfulness, or trying yoga and meditation. These techniques can help lower blood pressure and improve heart health.
• Eat a Healthy Diet: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can protect your heart. Pay attention to portion sizes to maintain weight, and try to reduce saturated fats and sugars.
• Get Quality Sleep: Sleep is essential for heart health. It allows the heart to rest and recover. Poor sleep can raise the risk of high blood pressure, diabetes, and other conditions that strain the heart.
• Avoid Tobacco: Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your heart. The risk of heart disease drops significantly within just a day of quitting.

In summary, making informed choices about your diet, exercise, and stress management can greatly improve heart health and help prevent strokes. Taking these steps now can lead to a healthier future.

This information is shared by Dr. Joy Shome, a cardiologist at B M Birla Hospital.

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