Your cardiovascular health after 50
Las Mercedes Medical Centers | May 7, 2024 | 3 min read time
How can I keep my heart in top shape?
Heart disease and stroke are major health problems for people aged 50 and older. While cardiovascular disease usually begins to affect men from the age of 50, women usually experience an increased risk from the age of 60 onwards.
Regardless of your age or gender, proactive measures can help you protect your heart and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Frequently asked questions about cardiovascular health
- My family has a history of heart disease. Am I doomed?
Not at all. While you can't change your genetics, you can control your lifestyle.
- Schedule an annual physical exam to establish benchmarks for your heart health.
- Ask your doctor about a CT scan for atherosclerosis, which is affordable, low-risk and effective in identifying high-risk individuals.
- Should I eat less red meat?
Probably.
- Reducing red meat consumption can reduce levels of TMAO, a byproduct of intestinal bacteria linked to heart disease.
- Plan one meat-free day a week and explore protein alternatives such as legumes and fish.
- Can stress or watching the news damage my heart?
Depends.
- Chronic stress can increase amygdala activity, triggering inflammation of the arteries and raising the risk of heart disease.
- Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as laughter, exercise or mindfulness practices.
- Is whole milk good for my heart?
Yes.
- A 2018 study of more than 130,000 adults found that consuming whole dairy was associated with a 22% lower risk of heart disease and a 34% lower risk of stroke compared to
those who consumed less dairy.
- I get out of breath walking up the stairs, is it a heart condition?
Not necessarily.
- If dyspnea only occurs during exercise, it may indicate that you are unfit, rather than heart disease.
- Sit-to-standtest: Can you sit on the floor and stand up without using your hands? Difficulty doing so may be related to higher mortality rates in adults over 50 years of age.
- Am I at increased risk of heart disease after menopause?
Yes.
- The decrease in estrogen after menopause can reduce the flexibility of the arteries and increase cholesterol levels.
- Focus on getting enough sleep (at least 6 hours per night), as insufficient sleep significantly increases the risk of heart disease.
- Should I take aspirin daily?
Depends.
- The American College of Cardiology recommends low doses of aspirin for:some text
- Healthy people aged 40-70 years with a high risk of infarction and a low risk of hemorrhage.
- Moderate to high risk diabetics.
- For others, recent research suggests limited benefits, so consult your physician.
- Do I consume too much salt?
If you eat processed foods, you probably do.
- Most people consume 3,400 mg of sodium per day, far exceeding the recommended 1,500 mg.
- Minimize processed foods such as bread, sausages and cheese.
- Increase your potassium intake by eating more fruits and vegetables to balance sodium levels.
- Can erectile dysfunction (ED) be a sign of heart disease?
Possibly.
- Erectile dysfunction can be an early warning sign of cardiovascular problems.
- A 2018 study found that men with erectile dysfunction were more likely to have type 2 diabetes, heart disease
or suffer a myocardial infarction or stroke. Consult your doctor for an evaluation of your heart health.
The most important
Your cardiovascular health is in your hands. Regular check-ups, a balanced diet and a heart-healthy lifestyle can go a long way toward reducing your risk of heart disease after 50.
Take the first step today by making an appointment with Las Mercedes Medical Centers.
Source: AARP.org
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