Six Simple Changes to Improve Heart Health
At the West Tennessee Heart & Vascular Center, we are dedicated to providing our patients with the best possible care for their heart health. We understand the importance of a healthy diet in maintaining a healthy heart, and we believe that making small changes to your diet can have a big impact on your heart health. Below,, we will discuss some simple diet changes that you can make to improve your heart health.
Increase your intake of fruits and vegetables: Fruits and vegetables are packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making them essential for heart health. They are also low in calories, which can help to maintain a healthy weight, another important factor in heart health. Aim to eat at least five servings of fruits and vegetables each day to ensure that you are getting the nutrients your heart needs.
Choose whole grains: Whole grains are a great source of fiber, which can help to reduce cholesterol levels and lower the risk of heart disease. They also provide essential nutrients, such as iron and B-vitamins, that support heart health. At the West Tennessee Heart & Vascular Center, we encourage our patients to choose whole grain bread, pasta, and rice, and to avoid processed grains that are high in sugar and low in fiber.
Eat more fish: Fish is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to reduce inflammation and lower the risk of heart disease. At the West Tennessee Heart & Vascular Center, we recommend that our patients aim to eat fish at least two times a week, and choose fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel, and sardines.
Limit saturated and trans fats: Saturated and trans fats are unhealthy fats that can raise cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease. They are often found in fried foods, processed snacks, and baked goods. At the West Tennessee Heart & Vascular Center, we encourage our patients to choose lean proteins, such as chicken or fish, and to avoid processed snacks and junk food.
Reduce salt intake: High salt intake has been linked to high blood pressure, which is a major risk factor for heart disease. At the West Tennessee Heart & Vascular Center, we advise our patients to limit their consumption of processed and packaged foods, which are often high in salt, and to season their food with herbs and spices instead.
Stay hydrated: Staying hydrated is important for heart health, as dehydration can lead to high blood pressure and increase the risk of heart disease. At the West Tennessee Heart & Vascular Center, we recommend that our patients aim to drink at least eight glasses of water each day, and avoid sugary drinks, such as soda and fruit juice, which can increase their risk of heart disease.
At the West Tennessee Heart & Vascular Center, we are committed to providing our patients with the best possible care for their heart health. If you have any concerns about your heart health, or if you are interested in learning more about how to improve your heart health through diet and lifestyle changes, we encourage you to make an appointment with one of our healthcare providers. We are here to support you every step of the way on your journey to a healthier heart.
