Valentine’s Day – around the corner next week – is all about love and the heart, but have you ever thought about how healthy your heart is?
While we focus on celebrating love, it’s essential to remember that a strong, healthy heart allows us to enjoy many more years with our loved ones.
Have you noticed how your body has changed over the years? Maybe you’ve gained weight, feel more tired, and your clothes fit differently.
Ask yourself:
· Are you moving enough each day?
· Are you eating foods that truly support your heart?
· Are you managing stress effectively?
· Are you getting regular check-ups?
Many people feel they have let themselves go, because they were busy with work, family or other commitments. That can be a hard realisation. But you can take control of your health again.
Sujata, you may even be at a higher risk of heart disease without realising it. Heart disease doesn’t just happen overnight, it often develops due to daily dietary choices and lifestyle habits.
There are several key measures to check heart health, including:
· Blood Pressure: High blood pressure can strain the heart and increase the risk of heart disease and stroke.
· Cholesterol Levels: An imbalance of good (HDL) and bad (LDL) cholesterol can lead to blocked arteries, raising the risk of heart attacks.
· Blood Sugar Levels: High blood sugar damages blood vessels and increases the risk of diabetes, a major heart disease risk factor.
· Inflammation Markers : Chronic inflammation, detected through tests like CRP, has been linked to cardiovascular disease.
· Body Mass Index (BMI) and Waist Circumference: Being overweight, particularly around the waist, raises the risk of high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease.
When was the last time you had these checked?
It is important to go for regular check-ups and understand what these numbers mean. Don't ignore them!
If you are at higher risk of heart disease due to lifestyle, family history, or pre-existing conditions, now is the time to make changes. Next week, I’ll share how to support your heart health.
Making small, consistent changes now will help you feel better, reduce your risk of disease, and enjoy life to the fullest.
Sujata Din is a Certified Health Coach and Certified Professional Cancer Coach. In this regular column for iGlobal, she offers some special insights, from useful wellness tips to recipes for creations that are not only delicious but also healthy.
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