Timely Tips for Heart-Healthy Living

Many health-conscious Filipinos nowadays are paying particular attention to their cardiovascular health. Joining marathons, running events, triathlons, doing Zumba, various sports and activities, and going for healthy and nutritional diets, are just some of the measures that they take. However, seasonal changes can sometimes throw us off our regular routines of healthy-living and some people just stop heart-healthy habits going back for more convenient, unhealthy behaviors.

Experts have said over and over again that the most important factors in cholesterol management are healthy lifestyle choices like a nutritious diet, regular physical activity and not smoking. During the cold months like we will be experiencing, some people find they lapse in these areas as they spend more time indoors to avoid the cold, wet weather and enjoy more hearty warm meals. Here are some tips to help you stay heart healthy in this kind of weather.

1) Try to consume more heart-healthy foods like fresh fruits and vegetables, fish, nuts and berries. Avoid foods with high levels of trans fats. If you do decide to indulge in convenience or comfort foods, try to reduce your portion size.

2) Get outside and enjoy all that cold weather has to offer. Bundling up and going for a brisk stroll can be a great way to get exercise and appreciate the landscape.

3) If you are a smoker, try to cut down or quit smoking. Don’t be afraid to reach out to friends and family members for support.

When lifestyle changes aren’t enough, Dr. Chris Mohr, RD, PhD, recommends a probiotic supplement that can help bridge the gap between diet, exercise and drugs. “Cardioviva is the only probiotic that’s been clinically proven to help reduce bad cholesterol,” says Dr. Mohr. This supplement has been shown to help maintain healthy cholesterol levels by reducing the amount we absorb from food and the amount the body naturally produces.

www.newscanada.com

(Image credit: www.belgraviacentre.com)