Today is World Heart Day.
Around 115 people die each day from cardiovascular disease in Australia. Cardiovascular disease is a group of disorders effecting the heart and blood vessels. There are many risk factors that can be modified to reduce your risk of developing cardiovascular disease.
Risk factors for cardiovascular disease
Un-modifiable risk factors (things you cannot change):
- Family history of heart issues
- Age
- Sex
- Ethnic background
Modifiable risk factors (things you can change):
- High blood pressure
- Obesity
- Smoking or alcohol consumption
- Physical inactivity
- High cholesterol
- Poor diet
Ways to reduce your risk of heart disease
- Eating a healthy diet.
- A diet high in fruits, vegetables, wholegrains, nuts, seeds, legumes and includes healthy fats such as avocados, olives, nuts and seeds.
- A diet low in processed foods.
- Incorporating a variety of different foods.
- Staying active.
- Aim for 2 1/2 – 5 hours of moderate activity or 1-2.5 hours of vigorous activity every week.
- Start with short walks and build up to more intense activity over time.
- Simple health decisions such as taking the stairs instead of the elevator.
- Reducing smoking and alcohol intake.
- Maintain a healthy body weight through healthy diet and exercise.
- Get regular heart health checks after 45 years of age, or after 30 years of age for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders.
If you have any concerns, always reach out to your doctor for a health check or advice on reducing your risk of developing cardiovascular disease.
Find more of our health tips here.
Book an appointment with us here or call us on 9651 5559.
Sources:
Heart Foundation Australia. https://www.heartfoundation.org.au/Blog/You-can-beat-heartbreak-this-World-Heart-Day
World Heart Federation. https://world-heart-federation.org/what-is-cvd/