Did you know that the older you get, the more your risk of heart disease or heart attack increases? In the 60s, about 10% of women and 20% of men suffer from heart disease, but by age 80, those numbers will increase to 19% of women and 32% of men. This can be attributed to our hearts becoming stiffer and beating more slowly as we get older. However, it is possible to combat this and help keep your heart healthy as it ages. Your pharmacy in Powell, TN, can help recommend some steps to take, including over-the-counter vitamins.
Let’s explore how to keep your heart healthy.
Risk Factors for Heart Disease
Most of the tips you can follow for a healthier heart relate to making lifestyle changes, so it is important first to understand the things that are more likely to increase your risk of heart disease since those are the things that we will be changing! Some of the most significant risk factors include:
- Uncontrolled High Blood Pressure
- Obesity
- Diabetes
- Smoking
- High Cholesterol
Never Too Late to Quit
Let’s talk about one of the less complicated things on that list that you can change. Smoking! Now, if you have reached your 50s, 60s, or even your 70s and are a smoker, you might be thinking that it is too late to quit smoking. After all, the damage has already been done, right? Wrong! It is never too late to kick the habit. It is proven that tobacco smoke contains chemicals that will damage your heart and blood vessels, increasing heart disease risk. If you can quit smoking even after decades of nicotine addiction, there are benefits to your health. Drop by your pharmacy in Powell, TN, for some advice on stubbing it out for good. They can provide advice and products to assist you, such as nicotine patches and gum.
Let’s Get Moving!
Remember how we said that the heart gets stiffer as it gets older? That’s because it is a muscle, and if we don’t work our muscles out, they will start to deteriorate. Exercising regularly will help get your heart rate elevated and give it a workout! The recommended weekly amount of exercise is 150 minutes, but you might find that too much as you get older. Try 30 mins of brisk walking or swimming three times a week. If it is still a struggle, just do as much as you can manage. Any amount of exercise will be helpful, and as you strengthen those muscles, you may be able to increase your activity as time goes on.
Change Your Diet
Diet is one of the most significant factors in keeping our hearts healthier well into our old age. The key is choosing a balanced diet with treats in moderation. Start with a good balance of fiber-filled foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Look at foods that will provide healthier fats, including fish and avocado instead of saturated fats found in red meat and fried foods. You should also limit foods that are high in sugar and cholesterol. It can also be helpful to supplement your diet with over-the-counter vitamins from your local pharmacy in Powell, TN.
Limit Stress in Your Life
We didn’t mention it above, but chronic stress is bad for your heart. Many people are unaware that stress is more than a mental illness; it also has physical manifestations. Stress is known to narrow the arteries and cause increased blood pressure making heart disease more of a risk. It is important to find ways to combat your stress levels. Some ideas include:
- Taking a short walk
- Meditation
- Watching a movie that makes you laugh
- Take a bubble bath
- Meet a friend for lunch or coffee
- Talk to a counselor instead of bottling up your worries
These are just a few of the things you can do to keep your heart as healthy as possible as you get older. Which tips are you going to try? Don’t forget you can also visit your pharmacy in Powell, TN.
Your Hometown Pharmacy Since 1966
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Vaughn Pharmacy is a local, family-owned pharmacy serving the community in Powell, TN. Specializing in providing personalized and attentive prescription programs to our patients, we believe you are more than just a number – you’re part of our family!
(865) 947-1581