If you’ve had a heart attack or have been diagnosed with heart disease, taking care of your cardiovascular health is an urgent priority. From lifestyle tactics to managing your prescriptions, there are several practices you can follow for a comprehensive approach to heart wellness. Here are a few strategies to prioritize.

How to Maintain a Healthy Heart as You Age

1. See Your Cardiologist

Check in with your cardiologist regularly. This specialist will guide you on which types of prescriptions you should be taking, from ACE inhibitors to control blood pressure to aspirin to prevent clot formations.

Since many of these drugs could carry side effects and should be taken according to certain instructions, get guidance from your pharmacist with any new prescriptions.

2. Maintain a Healthy Diet

A healthy diet is critical for promoting heart wellness, as poor food choices can lead to weight gain, which puts extra stress on the heart. Aim to eat whole grains, fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. These choices are rich in nutrients and supply your body with the micro and macronutrients it needs to stay healthy.   

3. Exercise Regularly

Exercise is one of the most effective strategies available to promote heart health. Experts recommend getting 30 minutes of cardiovascular activity per day, five days a week. This type of exercise promotes circulation to lower blood pressure and control heart rate. Try running, cycling, brisk walking, or swimming.

4. Control Your Stress Levels

Severe stress can weaken the heart muscles, leading to a temporary condition that mimics heart attacks known as cardiomyopathy. In addition, while stress hasn’t been directly proven to cause a heart attack or disease, it can contribute to factors that impact cardiovascular health, such as high blood pressure and cholesterol. Find healthy stress-busting habits, such as journaling or yoga.

5. Quit or Avoid Smoking

Smoking is an adversary to heart health. Over time, the habit contributes to atherosclerosis, or the buildup of plaque in the arteries, which causes hardening and narrowing. Smoking can increase the risk for cardiovascular concerns, such as peripheral artery disease and heart disease.

As a trusted source for prescriptions in Cincinnati, Pack Pharmacy can help you manage your heart health. Having served the community since 1949, this pharmacy offers easy refills for medications along with knowledgeable pharmacists who are ready to answer your questions. See their full list of services online or call (513) 871-7770 to speak with a staff member.