Heart Health

Looking after yourself while enjoying a happy and healthy lifestyle can make a difference to your health, now and later on in life. Even if you have been diagnosed with a heart condition, making some lifestyle choices with the guidance of your specialist can be to your advantage. Prevention is always better than cure. Ask our team how we can help you make the most of your heart.

A healthy diet and balanced lifestyle are essential to a healthy heart.

Always consult with your healthcare provider, before making significant lifestyle changes.

Some nutritional advice

  1. Work with your specialist to develop a plan to achieve and maintain a healthy cardiovascular system, body weight and blood sugar balance.
  2. Reduce the quantity of fats in your diet . At the same time, increase the amount of fish in your diet (but not deep-fried fish) and eat more fruit, vegetables and whole grains.
  3. A diet high in soluble fibre is highly recommended.
  4. Stick to a diet that’s low in salt by decreasing your consumption of processed meats (e.g. bacon, ham and salami), packaged foods and junk foods. Buy low salt alternatives of any tinned foods, sauces or other packaged foods that you use and don’t add salt to your meals.
  5. Including low-fat dairy products in your diet may be beneficial for your blood pressure, perhaps due to the calcium they contain. Aim for three serves per day.
  6. Drink alcohol only in moderation and favour antioxidant-rich red wine.
  7. Quit smoking. Cigarette smoking significantly increases the risk of developing cardiovascular disease and other health problems, and can exacerbate the negative effects of high cholesterol and blood pressure levels.
  8. Regular exercise can help to maintain a healthy heart. As little as 30 minutes of moderate exercise, such as a brisk walk, may help to improve your cardiovascular health, but seek the advice of your healthcare professional before commencing a new exercise programme.
  9. Practice techniques to reduce your stress levels and improve your ability to cope under pressure.

Ascot Hospital, Level 3
90 Greenlane East
Remuera, Auckland 1051

PO Box 17 187,
Greenlane, Auckland 1546

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