For several years now, cardiovascular disease has stood and remained as the leading cause of death around the globe. What is perplexing is how preventable the majority of cardiovascular diseases are, yet they still reign as the number one killer. It is true there are some uncontrollable factors we cannot manipulate, such as the formation of heart abnormalities at birth. But in reality, there are far more controllable factors we can influence to improve not only the quality of our lives both mentally and physically, but the longevity of it as well.
Of the risk factors involved in causing cardiovascular disease, key ones include high blood pressure (BP), high cholesterol, and smoking. Additional risk factors comprise diabetes, obesity, a poor diet, physical inactivity and excessive alcohol use. All of these items previously listed are controllable by any affected person and according to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), 49% of Americans have either a high BP, high cholesterol, or they smoke. Upon the accumulation of a second risk factor, the risk of developing a cardiovascular disease doubles. This does not need to happen, however. The best way to avoid the emergence of any of these conditions or even reverse them after they have developed is by moving your body regularly and by up keeping a well-balanced diet. Studies have shown dramatic regression of BP, cholesterol and arterial wall plaque levels with regular physical activity. As for diet, think about it this way; the better quality food you consume, the cleaner the fuel it uses to run and the less work your body has to do to move out all the unnecessary toxins. The happier the body, the happier the mind, the happier the person!
Author Aris Coover Exercise Physiologist