Men’s Health – 5 Effective Guidelines to Reduce the Risk of CAD

Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) is the most common heart disease that poses a threat to both men and women. The major blood vessels in the body that supply blood, oxygen, and nutrients to the heart are damaged due to the accumulation of plaque. This build-up plaque narrows the coronary arteries, constricting the flow of blood to the heart. This disease is the leading cause of death in the United States.
Symptoms of CAD include angina (chest pain), difficulty in breathing, tightness, and heaviness. Coronary artery disease is hard to notice in the beginning. It develops over a long period of time as excess cholesterol plaque starts accumulating. This is known as atherosclerosis and it reduces the blood flow to the heart. As the blockage increases, it also increases the chances of getting a heart attack.

Men are at a higher risk of developing coronary artery disease and the risk for women increases after menopause. CAD develops over decades which means that as you get old, the risk of damaged arteries increases. Factors that can contribute to the development of CAD include high blood pressure and cholesterol level, tobacco smoking, obesity, stress, and unhealthy eating patterns. It is necessary to control this disease to reduce the chance of developing a stroke or heart attack. We have come up with 5 effective guidelines that can reduce the risk of CAD.

• Healthy heart diet: There are various foods that promote your heart health. Incorporate fruits, green leafy vegetables, whole grains, seeds, and legumes into your diet. Berries are full of antioxidants and eating a good number of berries every day can reduce the risk of heart diseases. Ditch other oils and start cooking your meals in olive oil.
• Put on your running shoes: Staying active and energetic throughout the day strengthens your heart muscles. It reduces excess fat from the body and aids in weight loss. Start exercising or simply go out for a run every day for 30 mins. Losing those extra kilos will also improve your heart health.
• Cut down sugar: High blood sugar level is a major cause in the development of heart diseases. Watch your sugar intake and reduce the consumption of sugary foods and drinks. These foods have no nutritional value and nothing to offer. People with diabetes have a greater chance of developing CAD. Regularly check for elevated blood sugar levels and consult your doctor for its management.
• Stop smoking: Smoking causes atherosclerosis i.e. the accumulation of plaque in the arteries. It is a major risk factor for CAD and heart attack. Quit smoking for a better and healthy heart that can survive for a long time. Educate people around you to avoid smoking and how it can impair their heart health.
• Reduce stress: Stress can obstruct your overall well-being. It can strip away the artery wells and increase blood pressure. Find healthy ways to cope with your stress. Indulge in relaxation techniques such as meditation and yoga. Look for stress-management methods or seek professional help.

Footnote

A healthy heart allows you to lead a happy and disease-free life. Protecting your heart is crucial to prevent the risk of chronic heart diseases. Engage in a healthy lifestyle to improve your heart health.