Most people know that smoking is bad for the heart, but what are other factors that put the heart and vascular system at risk? We recently conducted an interview with cardiovascular specialist Dr. Christian Heesch, whose clinical and research work involves both cardiac and peripheral vascular diseases.
“Cholesterol problems continue to be viewed as one of the most important risk factors for heart disease”, Dr. Christian Heesch told us. “Unlike a family history of heart disease, another important risk factor, you are able to improve your lipid profile by introducing sensible changes to your lifestyle, such as dietary modifications and exercise. Both, a sensible diet and regular cardiovascular exercise will go a long way to keep your heart and vascular system healthy. Obviously, if you smoke, you should stop immediately, and if you suffer from high blood pressure, you may need to take medications to lower your pressure. High blood pressure (hypertension) also responds to weight loss and dietary changes, especially a reduction in salt intake.”
Dr. Christian Heesch added: “Diabetes is another significant problem leading to an increased risk for heart disease. If you are a diabetic, you should talk to your doctor about getting on an optimal treatment plan to have the disease under control. Such treatment plan may include exercise, dietary changes, weight loss if needed, and medication”
Dr. Christian Heesch concluded: “Talk to your doctor about lifestyle changes you can make to keep you healthy. Diet, exercise plans, weight loss goals and medications all need to be tailored to the individual. Your physician is in the best position to advise you on changes that will fit your personal situation.”
Author: Robert Strong
“Cholesterol problems continue to be viewed as one of the most important risk factors for heart disease”, Dr. Christian Heesch told us. “Unlike a family history of heart disease, another important risk factor, you are able to improve your lipid profile by introducing sensible changes to your lifestyle, such as dietary modifications and exercise. Both, a sensible diet and regular cardiovascular exercise will go a long way to keep your heart and vascular system healthy. Obviously, if you smoke, you should stop immediately, and if you suffer from high blood pressure, you may need to take medications to lower your pressure. High blood pressure (hypertension) also responds to weight loss and dietary changes, especially a reduction in salt intake.”
Dr. Christian Heesch added: “Diabetes is another significant problem leading to an increased risk for heart disease. If you are a diabetic, you should talk to your doctor about getting on an optimal treatment plan to have the disease under control. Such treatment plan may include exercise, dietary changes, weight loss if needed, and medication”
Dr. Christian Heesch concluded: “Talk to your doctor about lifestyle changes you can make to keep you healthy. Diet, exercise plans, weight loss goals and medications all need to be tailored to the individual. Your physician is in the best position to advise you on changes that will fit your personal situation.”
Author: Robert Strong