The list below may raise your eyebrows, but it won’t raise your blood pressure. Here are a few lesser-known things that are actually good for your heart:
- Maintaining a stable relationship
Stable relationships can protect your heart and your health. Did you know relationship issues could increase your risk for heart attack by 34 percent?
- Keeping a positive mindset
Happiness can make your heart healthier, your immune system stronger, and your life longer. Living with a generally positive mindset can also help lower your heart rate and blood pressure.
- Living in the ‘burbs
Suburbia is less congested and often lends itself to a slower, more relaxed pace. Regular exposure to heavy traffic may increase your risk of heart attack.
- Having a primary care physician
Partnering with a primary care physician and maintaining regular appointments will help him or her identify early warning signs of cardiovascular disease and recommend dietary changes, exercise and medications.
- Taking a daily aspirin
Talk to your doctor to find out if taking a daily low-dose aspirin is right for you. Though it may not be beneficial for everyone, it may help reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke. In addition to relieving pain, reducing inflammation and lowering fevers, aspirin can help prevent blood clots from forming.
- Getting an annual flu vaccine
A flu shot helps reduce the risk for heart attack by 10 percent in heart patients following hospitalization. It has also been shown to protect heart health in elderly people and those with pre-existing conditions.
- Keeping your gums healthy
Mouth bacteria can trigger chronic inflammation in the blood vessels and lead to an increased risk of heart disease. Keep your heart healthy with regular professional dental cleanings and check ups.
If you’d like to learn about more about things that are good for your heart, call the Pomona Valley Health Centers specialists at 909-630-7829.
