Lifestyle is linked to several risk factors for cardiovascular disease and stroke. Once identified, these risks can be reversed.
Some of the key factors are:
Nutrition
- Good nutrition maintains good cardiovascular health.
- A low-fat/high-fibre diet is one of the many recommendations from health professionals. Other recommendations include:
- Limit daily energy (caloric) intake from fat to 30% or less (daily average: 90 g for men / 65 g for women). The Canadian average is approximately 40%.
- Limit daily sodium (salt) intake to 3,000 mg. The Canadian average of close to 6,000 mg per person.
- Increase daily fibre intake to approximately 25 to 35 g, twice the Canadian average.
Physical activity
- At least 30 minutes a day of moderate physical activity is recommended.
Alcohol and drug consumption
- Alcohol consumption should not exceed 2 drinks per day - a maximum of 14 drinks a week for men and 9 drinks a week for women.
- Street drugs such as marijuana, cocaine, crack, amphetamines (speed), ecstasy, GHB, LSD, injected and inhaled substances, etc. carry as high a risk as "soft" drugs.
- Possible additives and inconsistent dosage contribute to the risk of cardiovascular problems.
- Risk is significantly increased when such substances are taken together with other drugs, including prescription drugs or alcohol.
Adopt healthy habits now and keep your heart beating for a long time to come!