3 minute read
Heart Healthy Lifestyle
Dr. Kirsten Hesterberg, DO | Cardiologist at SCL Health Heart and Vascular Institute - Brighton
Cardiovascular disease (CVD), including heart attack and stroke, remains a leading cause of death in the United States. Even after the diagnosis of coronary artery disease, stroke or heart attack, there are lifestyle changes that can help lower future risk.
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Quit Smoking
If you smoke or use products containing nicotine, the single best thing you can do for your health is stop. Not only will your heart thank you, but your lungs, taste buds and even your skin will benefit.
Pay Attention to Your Sleep Habits
Sleep is important. Not everyone needs the same number of hours, but in general you should aim for seven to eight hours per night. If you suspect you have sleep apnea, a condition where you stop breathing while asleep, you should talk with your primary care provider.
Get Moving
Regular physical activity helps improve not only your cardiovascular health, but also improves sleep, mood and reduces stress. You should aim for 30 minutes of moderate intensity activity, most days of the week. This could include yard work, gardening, biking and walking. The key is to work hard enough to be slightly out of breath and unable to complete a full sentence when talking. It is also important to aim for two to three days of strength training per week.
Stress Less
Managing stress is important for overall well-being, especially right now. While there are many options meditation, yoga, spiritual practices and connecting with loved ones help relieve stress. There are also free online resources including Palouse Mindfulness and Yoga with Adriene that you can Google.
Healthy Eating
Food choices can help reduce your risk of heart attacks, strokes, cancer and even dementia. Studies suggest that certain styles of eating like plant-based diets or veganism, can lower your CVD risk. Other approaches, including the Mediterranean and Dietary Approach to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diets have been shown to help lower blood pressure and reduce CVD risk. These styles of eating focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grain, legumes, nuts, seeds and beans. They include some low-fat dairy and lean proteins, such as eggs, fish and chicken, while minimizing or avoiding processed foods and meats, added sugars, salt and soda.
If you want to start incorporating some of these lifestyle and food changes, its best to start with one or two small changes. When these become part of your routine, make another change. Remember, the benefit comes over time. With a little practice and patience, you can make meaningful changes!
WE’RE HERE TO HELP!
The SCL Health Heart & Vascular Institute combines the strength of leading cardiovascular specialists with some of the area’s best heart hospitals, including Platte Valley Medical Center in Brighton, as well as regional centers of excellence such as Saint Joseph Hospital and National Jewish Health in Denver. Our team of experienced and highlyqualified cardiologists and vascular specialists provides you with the highest level of care, from heart attack prevention and surgical care, to specialized rehabilitation, all to keep your heart healthy and strong.
For more information visit SCLhealth.org/heart or call 303-659-7000 to make an appointment with a cardiologist.
Dr. Kirsten Hesterberg, DO
Cardiologist, SCL Health Heart and Vascular Institute - Brighton
Hoyt Community Memorial Day Service
Monday, May 31, 2021 at 9:00 a.m. Continental breakfast to follow at the Hoyt Community Center
Your Trusted Heart Care Experts in Brighton
SCL Health Heart & Vascular Institute in Brighton is a team of experienced and highly qualified cardiologists and vascular specialists providing you with the highest level of care, from heart attack prevention and surgical care, to specialized rehabilitation, all to keep your heart healthy and strong. We combine the strength of leading cardiovascular specialists with some of the area’s best heart hospitals, including Platte Valley Medical Center, as well as regional centers of excellence such as Saint Joseph Hospital and National Jewish Health in Denver.
We accept most major insurance plans, and offer online scheduling for your convenience. HEART & VASCULAR CONDITIONS WE TREAT:
• Arrhythmia and heart rhythm disorders • Atrial fibrillation (Afib) • Heart attack and coronary artery disease • Heart failure • Congenital heart defects • Heart valve disease • Vascular and arterial disease
Pictured Left to Right: Mark Chou, DO, Christopher Cannon, MD, Laura Mason Ferguson, PA-C, Kirstin Hesterberg, DO, Donald Rabor, MD, Mitchell Jamison, PA-C
