It’s the #1 Cause of Death and Here’s How to Avoid It – Eat This Not That
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states, “one person dies of heart disease every 34 seconds in the United States,” and adds, “coronary heart disease is the most common type of heart disease, causing 382,820 deaths in 2020.” Although the statistics are grim, there is no information on heart disease. Although there are some risk factors such as age and family history that you cannot change, there are lifestyle choices and health habits that can help avoid heart disease. Eat This, Not That! Health spoke to experts who share ways to prevent heart disease. Read on—and to ensure your health and the health of others, don’t forget to check out these Sure Signs You’ve Already Had COVID,
Eric Stahley“Heart disease is the leading cause of death for most racial and ethnic groups in the United States,” says non-invasive cardiologist at Staten Island University Hospital. Within heart disease, coronary artery disease is most common due to atherosclerosis. The process begins in the second and third decades of life as a result of high cholesterol, poor diet, sedentary lifestyle, obesity, smoking, high blood pressure and diabetes mellitus.
Dr. Bio Curry-WinchellUrgent Care Medical Director and Physician, Carbon Health and St. Mary’s Hospital tells us, “According to CDCHeart disease is the number one cause of death in the US (696,962 deaths). It’s important to note, there are many types of heart disease and, unfortunately, they are not always associated with warning signs – which contribute to the number of deaths each year. Anyone can develop heart disease. That’s why it’s extremely important to be mindful of your health and minimize your risks.”
Dr. Stahl explains, “For many people, a heart attack is the first realization that they have heart disease. Atherosclerosis and hypertensive heart disease progress decades without symptoms. As do high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity. As they become more prevalent, more people suffer from downstream effects, according to Heart Disease. Center for Disease Control and PreventionIn 2020, approximately 697,000 people in the United States will die of heart disease. Heart disease is responsible for 1 out of every 5 deaths. Coronary artery disease is the most common type of heart disease and has caused approximately 383,000 deaths in 2020. About 20.1 million Americans suffer from coronary artery disease.”
Dr. Stahl reminds us, “It is important to have regular blood pressure, cholesterol and diabetes screenings. Everyone over the age of 20 should undergo screening at least every 5 years.”
Dr. Curry-Winchell urges, “Get a check-up! There are some warning signs of heart disease such as chest, neck, or shoulder pain, however, not everyone will have symptoms. Some conditions such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol do not. May be associated with any number of symptoms – often referred to as the ‘silent killer’.
“If someone in your family has, or has had, this disease, you are more likely to develop specific diseases, including heart disease,” says Dr. Curry-Winchell. Sharing this information with your healthcare provider Be sure. The information you share can help. Identify heart disease at an early stage or reduce your risk for developing it.”
Dr. Stahl reminds us, “Smoking is the most preventable cause of death in the United States. On average, smokers die more than 10 years earlier than non-smokers. Smoking is dangerous and toxic. The inhalation of substances raises cholesterol, promotes atherosclerosis, increases blood pressure, and causes narrowing of the arteries.”
Dr. Curry-Winchell says, “Your body responds to nicotine by raising your blood pressure. Simply put, high blood pressure throughout the day and for an extended period of time increases your risk for developing heart disease. “
Dr. Stahl suggests, “All adults should undergo regular blood pressure screening to prevent unrecognized and uncontrolled high blood pressure. Left untreated, high blood pressure or what is often referred to as the “silent killer”, especially Causes significant downstream effects on the cardiovascular system.
Dr. Curry-Winchell says, “It’s important to stay active! Whether it’s walking around your neighborhood or spending time at the gym, both can help reduce your risk of developing heart disease by lowering your cholesterol and blood pressure.” can.”
Shares Dr. Stahl, “Being active is an important aspect of a healthy cardiovascular lifestyle. It is recommended to get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week or 75 minutes of high-intensity exercise per week. ”
Dr. Curry-Winchell tells us, “Incorporating heart-healthy foods like beans, berries, and a good amount of green leafy vegetables into your diet can do a lot! They all contain antioxidants and vitamin K that can help.” Helps protect against inflammation and your blood pressure — all factors in the development of heart disease.”
According to Dr. Stahl, “following the Mediterranean diet is an excellent foundation for a heart-healthy lifestyle. This diet emphasizes vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes, nuts, plant-based proteins, lean animal proteins, and fish. . Olive oil should be the primary fat source. Foods to avoid are those high in sodium, added sugars, saturated fat and trans fat.”
Dr. Stahl emphasizes, “There are many cardiovascular benefits to maintaining a healthy weight. If you are overweight or obese, modest weight loss reduces your risk of developing heart disease, high blood pressure and diabetes. Make small attainable goals by eating healthier and being more active.”
