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Responsible for pumping blood to every part of your body, your heart is an incredibly important muscle. But, while this organ may do a lot of work, it requires your support to stay healthy and strong. In honor of American Heart Month, the West Hawaii Community Health Center is encouraging patients everywhere to embrace steps to prevent heart disease — the leading cause of death in the United States, according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. To get you on the path of cardiovascular health, these family doctors of Kailua Kona, HI, offer a few tips on how to keep your heart healthy.

5 Ways to Prevent Heart Disease 

1. Get Active

Regular exercise — about 30 minutes a day — is one of the best ways to keep your heart strong, according to the American Heart Association.  Whether you prefer to go for a brisk walk or engage in team sports, this activity will get your blood circulating and help burn off excess weight to improve your cardiovascular health.

2. Curb Your Cholesterol

doctorWhen you consume too many trans or saturated fats, you have an increased risk of developing high LDL cholesterol levels. As this “bad” cholesterol builds up in your arteries, your risk of heart disease increases. If you have high cholesterol, talk to your doctor about dietary changes or medication that can help.

3. Stress Less

If you’re regularly stressed, you may be subjecting your body to increased blood pressure — two factors that can contribute to heart disease. To take control of the situation, find ways to relax — such as meditation or rhythmic breathing. You might also discuss mental health solutions with your doctor if stress is a chronic problem.

4. Show Smoking the Door

Smoking cigarettes exposes your body to nicotine and various hazardous chemicals linked to a higher risk of heart disease — among many other serious medical problems. If you currently smoke, speak with your health care provider about proven quitting methods.  

5. Keep Your Physical Appointment

During your annual physical, your doctor will evaluate your heart health to ensure it’s beating its best. Your provider will also look for early signs of chronic conditions linked to heart disease — such as diabetes — and offer solutions to help reduce your risk.

Whether you want to learn more about your cholesterol levels or are looking for healthy ways to lose weight, the doctors at West Hawaii Community Health Center can help. This Kailua Kona, HI, medical center offers general and specialized care to help address heart disease and other chronic conditions so that you can keep your body in its best shape. Visit the health center’s website to learn more about the comprehensive services they offer at their locations in Kailua-Kona, Kealakehe, Kealakekua, and Waikoloa. For questions or appointments, call (808) 326-5629 to speak with a friendly staff member.

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