Leading a healthy lifestyle is a great way to look after your heart – and it doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are some simple ways you can do so.1
Get your blood pressure checked
Blood pressure is an important part of how your heart and blood circulation works, so it’s important to get it checked by your doctor or pharmacist.2
Maintain a healthy weight
If you’re concerned about your weight, speak with your doctor. They can take measurements, such as your weight, body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference, to assess whether you are a healthy weight and to help you create a plan, if required.3
Be physically active
Any opportunity for movement is an opportunity to improve your health. Be active every day in as many ways as you possibly can.1
Enjoy a variety of healthy foods
Choosing foods and drinks more wisely is important for your overall health and wellbeing.4
There are also some dietary changes you can make to help with your heart health, such as eating less salt, replacing saturated and trans fats with unsaturated fats and limiting your alcohol intake.1
Don’t smoke or quit if you already smoke
Avoiding smoking is another way to help to look after your heart.1 If you already smoke, quitting can improve your health and reduce your risk of health issues.5
For some tips and practical advice on quitting, visit www.icanquit.com.au.
Look after your mental health
Heart health isn’t only affected by your physical wellbeing.1 Make sure you look after your mental wellbeing too – take time each day to slow down, relax and stress less!
Sources:
- Heart Foundation. Keep your heart healthy. Available from: https://www.heartfoundation.org.au/your-heart/keep-your-heart-healthy.
- Heart Foundation. Blood pressure. Available from: https://www.heartfoundation.org.au/your-heart/know-your-risks/blood-pressure.
- Heart Foundation. Healthy weight. Available from: https://www.heartfoundation.org.au/your-heart/know-your-risks/healthy-weight
- Australian Government Department of Health and Ageing. Eat for health. Australian dietary guidelines summary. Available from: https://www.nhmrc.gov.au/_files_nhmrc/file/your_health/healthy/nutrition/n55a_australian_dietary_guidelines_summary_131014_1.pdf.
5. Health Direct Australia. NSW Quitline. Available from: https://about.healthdirect.gov.au/quitline
