IMPORTANT MEDICAL TESTS THAT DETERMINE YOUR HEART ATTACK RISK; HEALTHY HABITS TO FOLLOW
New Delhi: Heart health is extremely important in today's times especially when there has been a staggering increase in the number of youngsters suffering heart attacks. Recently, ten people died dancing garba in Gujarat during the Navratri celebration, with most of them being teenagers and in their 20s.
Experts have now expressed concern over the situation, saying that diet and lifestyle are one of the reasons why these cases are happening.
“People in the last two decades have been eating wrong and when you exert in the gym or dance classes, or in the garba where it is more fashionable to show that you are fit but you aren’t fitter because you are eating wrong for the last 1-2 decades, your health will catch up with you with the form of a heart attack,” said Dr. Ryan Fernando, nutrition coach.
Related News |According to Fernando, your lifestyle is your best defense against heart disease and stroke, and by following a few simple steps, which include medical tests that determine your risk for heart attacks.
Here's a look at some of the blood tests used to diagnose and manage heart disease.
Cholesterol test
Also known as lipid profile, this test measures the fats in the blood, which helps determine the risk of having a heart attack or other heart disease. Ideally, the total cholesterol level should be below 200 milligrams per deciliter or 5.2 millimoles per liter (mmol/L).It also includes
Related News |Low-density lipoprotein or LDL, also known as bad cholesterol, causes plaque buildup in the arteries that reduces blood flow. These deposits rupture and lead to major heart and blood vessel problems.
High-density lipoprotein or HDL, known as the good helps, carry away LDL cholesterol, keeping arteries open and blood flowing more freely.
Triglycerides are also a type of fat in the blood which means you can regularly eat more calories than you burn.
High-sensitivity C-reactive protein
C-reactive protein is formed in the liver which forms a quick response to injury or infection, causing inflammation, which plays a major role in the process of atherosclerosis.Fernando recommends increasing Omega-3 fatty acids in your diet to reduce swelling. “Increase Omega 3 in your diet because when Omega-3 –3 is low inflammation it goes through the roof,” he said.
Experts say since CRP levels get increased by many situations like cold or constant running, this test should be conducted at least twice, weeks apart. A hs-CRP level above 2.0 milligrams per liter (mg/L) indicates a higher risk of heart disease.
Lipoprotein (a)
Lipoprotein (a) is a type of LDL cholesterol that is mostly genetic. High levels are a sign of increased risk of heart disease and this test can help doctors determine if you already have atherosclerosis or heart disease but appear to have otherwise healthy cholesterol levels.Healthy habits you can follow to prevent heart issues
According to Fernando, a few heart-healthy habits to follow include:
- Eating processed and junk food which are high in saturated fat and trans fat contributes to heart disease. Hence, it is advised to consume fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains which can improve your heart health.
- Exercise at least 3-4 times a week, which is considered the best fat-burning exercise. Walking not only helps you lose weight but also makes your heart pump blood faster.
- Quit smoking as the chemicals in tobacco damage the heart and blood vessels. Cigarette smoke lowers the oxygen in the blood, raising blood pressure and heart rate.
- Get quality sleep as those who suffer from sleeplessness or insomnia have a higher risk of obesity, high blood pressure, heart attack, diabetes, and depression. Most adults need at least seven hours of sleep each night and so, make sure you get enough rest. Set a sleep schedule and stick to it.