3 Things You Can Do This Fall To Reduce Your Heart Disease Risk

Heart disease is not only a major cause of death, but it's also a major cause of disability. There are many factors in your everyday life that can raise your risk for heart disease and congestive heart failure.

While you can't control every risk factor, there are a few ways you can reduce your risk of heart disease, including coronary artery disease and congestive heart failure. Consider the following three tips to reduce your risk this fall.

1. Move around more often. You can still reduce your risk of heart disease even if you can't go out for a jog every day. By getting up and moving more often, you can get your heart pumping and improve flexibility. Consider going for a walk after dinner or doing step-ups on a footstool in your house. Take frequent breaks if you work at a desk or invest in a standing desk.

2. Limit sodium, saturated fats and added sugars. Fall is the harvest season, which means there will be more delicious foods in your grocery store and at family get-togethers. But during this harvest season, make sure you are limiting your intake of foods high in sodium, saturated fat and added sugars. Eat plenty of vegetables, whole grains and fresh fruit. This way, you can still enjoy the foods that are now in season while lowering your blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

3. Limit your alcohol intake. With temperatures gradually dropping, you may soon be switching out your favorite summer cocktails for dark lagers. But drinking too much alcohol can raise your blood pressure and hurt your liver health. Consider switching out your alcoholic beverages for water to stay hydrated. Not only is water better for your health overall but it'll also help your skin, which can become dry during the winter months.

Looking for a cardiovascular care center?

It's no secret that many people are at risk for heart disease. In fact, heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States.

Fortunately, you can reduce your risk of heart disease by taking preventive measures against various types of cardiovascular issues. At the Phelps Health Heart and Vascular Center in Rolla, Missouri, our providers offer the necessary care so that our patients can stay as healthy as possible.