Heart
Just like an engine runs a car, the heart runs your body. The heart which is about the size of your clenched fist is a strong muscle that incessantly pumps blood to your body. It is one of the most vital organs of the human body, and overall health of an individual is directly linked to the health of the heart. Given below are some do's and don'ts for a healthy heart and you
Do's
1) Exercise Regularly
Simple exercises like brisk walking, cycling or high intensity workouts like swimming, jogging & running improve body cholesterol and lower the blood pressure. Your heart beats faster almost above 100 times a minute from 70 times a minute which is a good exercise for the cardiovascular muscles.
2) Eat fresh fruits and vegetables
Following a heart-healthy diet that contains Fresh fruits, nuts, green leafy vegetables, etc which are nutrient rich and contain loads of fibers are scientifically healthy for your heart. Hence always choose foods that are low in Trans and saturated fats, added sugars, and salt.
3) Dark Chocolate
Recent studies reveal that dark chocolate, that is rich in cocoa and low in sugar contributes to heart health. This can prove beneficial when consumed in moderation. Cocoa which is a key ingredient in the dark chocolate has antioxidants that increase good cholesterol, lower bad cholesterol and improve blood clotting function.
Don'ts
1) Fast foods
All your favorite fast foods, like French fries, cheesy burgers, fried chicken, Pizzas, fried fish are laden with saturated and Trans fats. Saturated fat is also found in butter, lard, cream, meats, etc and eating foods containing these fats increases levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol and your risk for heart disease. Try to cut out or cut down to a bare minimum of all these high- fat fast foods.
2) Smoking
Smoking increases the chances of a stroke and can be easily prevented if one quits smoking. The artery walls are damaged because of smoking but can be reversed by keeping a check on this habit.
3) Stress
Stress induces fluctuations in the blood pressure leading to abnormal heart health. Hence avoid stress or keep it at bare minimum for good heart health. Learn how to manage stress, relax, and cope with problems to improve physical and emotional health.
4) Sedentary lifestyle
If you work in front of a computer from 9 to 5 you are at a higher risk of heart diseases; Here's something you can do, move every 45 minutes give your body a twist and a whole some stretch, just pause and try to listen to your heart.
Here are your do's and don'ts! Make sure you follow them for a healthy heart.