Dr. Sunny Intwaraa cardiologist and clinical exercise physiologist at Nuvance Health.

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States and around the world. Heart disease can lie undetected for decades, so early diagnosis is important.

Equally important are lifestyle and dietary choices that help prevent the development of heart disease.

Here are six newly recommended strategies for heart health.

Portfolio diet to reduce cholesterol

A strategic nutritional approach, the Portfolio Diet targets the reduction of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, which plays a key role in plaque formation that can lead to heart attacks and strokes. Comprised of cholesterol-lowering foods such as plant sterols, phytosterols, viscous fiber, plant-based monounsaturated fatty acids, and nutritious whole foods, this diet synergistically lowers LDL cholesterol levels. These foods include soybeans, legumes, oats, barley, berries, apples, citrus fruits, nuts, seeds, and avocados. Westporters can treat themselves to the Portfolio Diet with The Granola Bar and Green & Tonic.

Learn more about preventive cardiology at Nuvance Health.

Semaglutide

Semaglutide was originally developed for diabetes management but emerged as a weight loss drug. Recent studies have shown that it can reduce hunger, induce satiety, and suppress overall appetite. Weight loss, especially with drugs like semaglutide, is associated with a reduced risk of heart attack and stroke.

A recent trial showed a 20% reduction in major cardiac events in heart disease patients treated with semaglutide for an average of 33 months, likely due to improvements in blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and insulin sensitivity. Masu. This highlights the vital role of weight management in a comprehensive cardiovascular health strategy.

Learn more about Nuvance Health’s metabolic medical weight loss program.

Detecting heart disease with mammography

Mammography is primarily used to screen for breast cancer and not to detect heart disease. However, recent research suggests a potential link between breast artery calcification seen on mammograms and an increased risk of heart disease. Calcification in the breast arteries may indicate atherosclerosis, a condition associated with heart disease.

Although mammography itself is not a preventative measure against heart disease, the association between breast artery calcification and heart disease risk may prompt health care providers to consider cardiovascular risk assessment in women with such findings. there is. This highlights the importance of a holistic approach to women’s health and the possibility that common risk factors exist between breast health and heart health.

For more information about mammography and breast imaging, visit Nuvance Health.

mediterranean lifestyle

A Mediterranean lifestyle, characterized by specific eating patterns, physical activity, and socialization, contributes to overall heart health. Although it does not directly detect heart disease, this lifestyle is associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular events. Emphasizing a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats, combined with regular physical activity and social engagement, promotes a holistic approach to cardiovascular health.

Learn more about nutrition counseling at Nuvance Health.

Manage stress and manage heart health

Chronic stress, which contributes to cardiovascular disease, can be reduced through various stress management techniques.

• Mindfulness and meditation: Practices such as mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, and guided imagery can help manage stress and positively impact blood pressure, heart rate, and overall cardiovascular function. For mindfulness, meditation, and other sacred rituals with her one-on-one or in a group, check out Goddess Mama in Westport.
• yoga: Yoga, which combines physical posture, breathing control, and meditation, can reduce stress levels, improve heart rate variability, and lower blood pressure. Check out Yoga45 in Westport.
• Regular physical activity: Exercise, a powerful stress reliever, contributes to your overall well-being.
• Quality sleep: Establishing healthy sleep patterns is essential for heart health, as poor sleep quality is associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease.

Exercise keeps your heart healthy

Regular physical activity strengthens the heart muscle and improves blood circulation and oxygen levels. A comprehensive exercise plan should include:

Conclusion: Consultation with a medical professional is essential before adopting any of these methods. Regular health checkups and open communication with your health care provider are essential to developing an individualized and comprehensive cardiovascular health plan tailored to your specific condition and risk factors.

Dr. Sunny Intwala is a cardiologist and clinical exercise physiologist at Nuvance Health. He is board certified in internal medicine and cardiovascular disease. Dr. Intwala specializes in general and preventive heart disease and has been practicing for over 12 years. Learn more about Dr. Intwara.

Note: Nuvance Health sponsors this content on Westport Journal. Nuvance Health is a system of not-for-profit hospitals, medical practices, and outpatient medical services throughout the Hudson Valley and western Connecticut, including nearby Norwalk Hospital.visit nuvancehealth.org For more information.