Happy New Year! A New Year’s resolution for better health is a great way to start off 2020. If you’re not sure what a Healthy Resolution looks like, take a look at these healthy topics that will keep you on the right track all year long.
Now is the best time to kick the habit of smoking. Smoking increases your risk of cancer and heart disease. Tobacco use increases the risk for serious health problems, many diseases and death. However, those who stop smoking greatly reduce their risk for smoking-related diseases.
When you feel the urge to smoke, REMEMBER THE 5 Ds:
And for even more support, call the NJ Quits Line at 1-866-NJ-STOPS.
High blood pressure is essentially hypertension. Hypertension involves a blood pressure which is anything from 130/80 mm Hg to 140/90 mm Hg. According to the American Heart Association (AHA), around 103 million adults in the United States have high blood pressure. They expect that this number will continue to rise. Lowering your blood pressure can reduce your chance of having a stroke or a heart attack by 25%. Following the tips in this article are some of the natural ways to lower your blood pressure, along with reducing stress, alcohol, and caffeine.
High cholesterol increases your risk of heart disease and heart attacks. Medications can help improve your cholesterol. But if you'd rather first make lifestyle changes to improve your cholesterol, try these five healthy changes to your diet:
High blood sugar occurs when your body can't effectively transport sugar from blood into cells and this can lead to diabetes, which can put you at a higher risk for peripheral arterial disease.
Here are a few of the ways to naturally control your blood sugar:
According to the most recent statistics from the National Institute of Health, there are more than 30.3 million people in the US with diabetes and over 7 million of those people will have a diabetic foot ulcer at some point in their life. If left untreated, however, these ulcers can lead to infections of the blood.
The best way to care for a diabetic foot ulcer is to not get one in the first place! Prevention is the key to this. Follow these steps to give yourself the best chance:
People with vascular concerns would be wise to consider the basics of the "Mediterranean Diet". This is a catchall phrase for cuisine found in Mediterranean countries and the diet generally features lots of fish and non-red meat sources, extra-virgin olive oil and plenty of fruit and vegetables, with additional flavor coming from herbs and spices, not salt.
In addition, make fruits and vegetables a staple. Fruits and vegetables are all high in things like fiber, vitamins and minerals. Not only will you be getting all of the nutrients you need with these foods, but you’ll also be cutting your calories. Limiting calories helps to control weight, which reduces the likelihood of developing vascular disease.
After the age of 55, the risk for vascular conditions like heart attack, stroke, hypertension, peripheral artery disease, and high cholesterol significantly increases. Keeping in motion is important. Many of us sit far too long during the day. Get up regularly and walk around to get the blood pumping. Also, riding a stationary bike is a safe way to move the legs. If you’re more athletic, go for a jog or swim. Maybe even consider joining our Walk with a Doc program where we combine a healthy stroll with some vascular education.
As you may see, many of these resolutions complement one another and provide tremendous health benefits across many areas. Start the year off right with these simple New Year’s resolutions. Stay healthy and happy and let's make 2020 a great year!