An Australian dies of heart disease every 30 minutes.
We started the year 2021 with our health at the top of our priority list after 2020 having been a year like no other. Hence, knowing what exactly can be prioritized when it comes to preventing a disease as serious and deadly as heart disease, this Red Feb.
The cardiologist Dr. Edward Barin discusses the new approach to maintaining heart health with Heart Research Australia – the 4-M approach.
Move
No matter how old you are, keep moving!
Dr. Berin says the benefits of exercise are more than fitness and flexibility.
"It stimulates the body's immune system, reduces blood thickening making it less likely to clot, improves brain function and lowers blood pressure. Exercise can even prevent some forms of cancer."
Meals
Dr. Berin talks about the importance of understanding the effects of trans fat.
Including: “How the body metabolizes various carbohydrates (sugars) and what effects this has on weight, diabetes and body fat deposits.
"Research shows time and time again that finding the right balance between food intake and exercise is critical to optimal weight, fitness and health."
Measurement
It's important to keep track of your health measurements.
“These include cholesterol levels, blood pressure, weight, sugar levels, waist circumference and exercise capacity.
"A close relationship between the GP and the subject will optimize the way in which health is measured and monitored."
Mental approach
The mind has been shown to be linked to heart health as well.
Dr. Berin says, “Important risk factors that can lead to heart disease are stress, anger, and depression.
"They can be just as harmful as high cholesterol if they cause heart disease."
Click here for the Dr. Read steps featured in Berin.
Red Feb 2021, Prevention Is The Best Medicine, was first published in Retail World Magazine.
