Alternative Ways to Prevent Coronary Artery Disease
May 26, 2022
Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) is a common heart problem that occurs mainly due to increased inflammation and cholesterol levels. It occurs when the “Bad Cholesterol” or Low-density Lipoprotein (LDL) increases beyond the stipulated levels.
The blockage caused by the LDL impedes blood circulation through Coronary Arteries. Consequently, the blood availability in heart muscles reduces substantially leading to serious implications. This medical condition is called CAD. That is the reason adults are advised to monitor their cholesterol level and keep it under control. Most of the times the increase in cholesterol levels is due to chronic inflammation.
Plaque formation is the root cause of CAD. The thick and sticky cholesterol that is accumulated inside the coronary arteries is called plaque. It will reduce the circumference of the arteries affecting the smooth blood flow. Thus, only a low quantity of blood circulates through the arteries. This can further cause the hardening of arteries, which is called Atherosclerosis.
The most common causes of CAD are observed to be:
Pursuing a healthy lifestyle and consuming a healthy diet can prevent chances of CAD to a remarkable extent. We believe that people should strictly adhere to this way of life after a certain age, to not only reduce the possibility of CAD but also most of the other physical ailments.
1. Healthy Diet
Junk food is the enemy of the body. It will starve the body of fibre and vital nutrients. Ingredients that are used for enhancing the taste adversely affect the body. Consume fibrous foods rich in nutrients. Those will regularize the metabolic activities, strengthen the immune system and preclude plaque formation. Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, fish, and leafy vegetables must be part of the diet. Control the intake of sugar and salt.
2. Physically Active
One of the most destructive characteristics of the present scenario is how pacey life has turned out. Time is money. No one has enough time for anything. Merged in official meetings, work, and business tours, people don’t get enough time to look after their bodies. This is more harmful to the body than any other unhealthy habit.
Be active and schedule time for work out daily. Visiting fitness centers, half an hour or running, workout, or doing yoga under a yoga trainer would be good to energize the body cells. It will improve blood circulation, boost metabolism and will reduce the inflammation in our body.
3. Quit Smoking
Smoking not only damages the lungs but also has widespread implications. Numerous chemicals including the lethal chemical Lead. Of course, it is not an easy task to quit smoking once you are addicted to it. Many make it a new year resolution to stop smoking and try their best to implement it practically. Coincidently, January is the month the cigarette manufacturers spend the most on advertising. Yes, to bring back those thinking of stopping smoking back to the habit. Nonetheless, counselling and alternative methods to satiate the nicotine craving of the body can be helpful to quit this harmful habit.
4. Reduce Body Weight
Inactive lifestyle and junk food are the main reasons for increased body weight or obesity. An obese person is prone to have CAD. Excessive weight can load the heart, as well as, blood vessels extremely. Moreover, a heightened level of cholesterol is also observed in fat individuals. Consult a dietician if you are unable to reduce weight by yourself.
5. Balanced Blood Pressure
Observing physical activities, diet, and medicines (if required) may be useful to keep the blood pressure under check. Excessive force applied on the artery walls can damage those and can lead to Atherosclerosis. This can be causative for CAD.
6. Control Alcohol Consumption
Controlled consumption of alcohol may not be problematic. Nevertheless, you must obtain an expert opinion from a doctor regarding the same. Excessive alcohol consumption will damage the arteries, cause obesity, increase blood pressure, lead to diabetes and result in heart problems. Drink responsibly, if you are unable to stop it completely.
7. Limit Sugar and Salt Intake
Uncontrolled sugar and salt intake along with an inactive way of life will cause diabetes and high blood pressure respectively. Always have a check on the consumption of both items. People with a family history of diabetes are prone to have the illness even before the age of 35.
8. Learn to Manage Stress
It may not be the right statement if we tell you to reduce stress. Working in multinational companies and a competitive atmosphere, stress is a normal thing. One must practice methods to control stress and keep yourself positive without the stress affecting one’s body. Mental tension can harm the body and push you into physical and medical ailments even before you reach old age. Meditation, yoga, gym training, motivational books etc can be good for keeping motivated and preventing the ill effects of stress.
Do you have concerns or queries regarding CAD? For an expert opinion, guidance, and medical support, contact Bethaniya Clinic now.
