How to Take Care of Your Heart

The World Health Organisation (WHO) estimates that about 17.9 million people die every year from Cardiovascular Diseases (CVDs). Heart attacks and strokes caused 85% of these deaths. CVDs are the world’s foremost killer, responsible for nearly 32% of global deaths^*. Heart attacks and strokes often present in individuals with a combination of risk factors. Those with high cholesterol, hypertension or diabetes are at an increased risk of suffering. Individuals who use tobacco, have an unhealthy diet, are obese, or drink alcohol regularly may also put themselves at risk. Thankfully, it’s never too late to start looking after yourself. Here’s how you can start taking care of your heart.

How to Take Care of Your Heart

• Eat Healthily

  Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts and legumes can help keep your heart healthy. As far as possible, reduce your consumption of salty and fried snacks and food. Eat nuts or fruits instead of samosas and pakodas when you feel hungry between meals. While creating your diet, give yourself some room to indulge. Make weekly desserts or occasional unhealthy snacks part of your plan. By giving yourself these allowances, you reduce the temptation to binge.

• Get Active

  Most people have sedentary lifestyles. Your job may require you to sit at a desk for hours. Whenever possible, get active and give yourself time to move. Physical activity can improve your blood pressure and control your weight. Try and incorporate at least two hours of exercise into your week. If you struggle to include a 30-minute walk into your routine, try walking a part of your commute to work instead of taking a bus or taxi. Park farther away than usual or take the steps instead of the elevator. These tweaks can help you include physical activity into your routine to keep your heart healthy.

• Avoid Tobacco and Alcohol

  Using tobacco and exposure to second-hand smoke harms your heart. If you use tobacco, cut it out of your life. After a year of quitting, you can reduce your risk of heart disease by half! Alcohol consumption can also cause cardiovascular diseases. Avoid it as much as possible to maintain your heart health.

• Check Your Pressure and Sugar Regularly

  Many people may not realise they have high blood pressure or hypertension. Since they do not experience symptoms, they do not monitor their blood pressure, which can damage their heart. Consider getting your blood pressure and blood sugar checked regularly by your doctor. They can catch symptoms early and help you correct course before the disease damages your health and heart.

• Get Cardiac Care –

  You can protect your heart and your family’s finances with HDFC Life Cardiac Care. The health plan covers up to 18 heart ailments, helping you focus on your health and recovery. The policy provides a lump sum payout on the diagnosis or treatment of a covered issue. It looks after your finances, allowing you to rest easy and recover.

  Looking after your heart can be easy. By eating well and incorporating activity into your daily routine, you can reduce your risk of suffering from CVDs.

^*Source: https://www.who.int/health-topics/cardiovascular-diseases#tab=tab_1

DISCLAIMER

HDFC Life Cardiac Care (UIN:101N117V03) is a Non-Linked, Non-Par Fixed Benefit Health Plan. Life Insurance Coverage is available in this product. For more details on risk factors, associated terms and conditions and exclusions, please read sales brochure carefully before concluding a sale.

ARN: ED/12/22/31013

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