Heart attacks and other heart-related diseases are on the rise among women in India and across the world. Such diseases are on the rise due to many factors including unhealthy lifestyle. According to statistics from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and prevention, more than 44 percent of women are battling heart diseases, which is one of the leading causes of death among women. But do women have an increased risk of heart attack?
What are the risk factors for heart disease in women?
There are many factors that can increase the risk of heart disease in women. Such ailments can vary from uncontrolled blood pressure issues to those that damage the heart. Uncontrolled blood pressure is also one of the silent reasons that increase the risk of heart diseases in women.
Apart from this, early menopause, diabetes, premature delivery and PCOS can also increase the risk of heart attack. Meanwhile, lifestyle problems such as obesity, smoking, excessive stress, physical inactivity, excessive alcohol consumption, unhealthy food intake, high blood sugar and mental health issues can also contribute to affecting a woman’s heart.
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What lifestyle changes can prevent heart attacks in women
It is necessary to lead a stress free life for a healthy lifestyle. Therefore, to live a healthy lifestyle, women should take the following steps to reduce the risk of heart attack:
Exercise regularly
Due to busy schedules, we often take our physical health for granted and do not pay necessary attention. As a result, later on, we suffer from various diseases. For women in particular, it becomes essential to exercise regularly as exercise increases blood flow, helps maintain weight and lowers the risk of heart disease.
eat nutritious food
A fiber-rich diet that includes fruits, vegetables and whole grains has been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease. A balanced nutritious diet reduces the risk of heart disease.
manage stress levels
Excessive stress and high blood pressure can increase the risk of heart disease. Hence, it becomes important to do some exercise which can act as a stress buster like yoga and meditation. It is important to identify stress reduction strategies that may work for you.
quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption
Smoking and alcohol consumption increase the risk of heart disease manifold. Smoking is injurious to health in many ways and can lead to deteriorating health in no time. Also, alcohol is strictly prohibited during pregnancy and if consumed in excess, it can affect the liver badly.
(Disclaimer: The information in this article is based on general information and is not a substitute for expert advice. Zee News does not confirm the same.)