Tips to keep your heart healthy for a long time

Padam, padam.

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In a Nutshell There's a particular statement that I frequently use during "Two Truths and a Lie": I was born with a congenital heart condition called transposition of the great arteries. (It's true, BTW.) Basically, two important tubes were in the wrong place, and I had to have corrective surgery when I was only 3 days old — yes, days. I don't remember the experience at all (obviously), and my condition is not something I always have at the top of my mind. Once a year, I try to see my cardiologist for a routine checkup. I've been overdue for a visit so this is me telling you to hold me accountable to set an appointment. Please and thank you! In the meantime, I'm going to make sure I'm abiding by today's tips to keep my heart as healthy as I can. • This everyday exercise may help you live longer • What do dreams about someone dying mean? • 13 low fat foods that are good for your health To the beat of my heart, Kenny Thapoung Managing Newsletter Editor

Written by Kenny Thapoung May 6, 2024 • 4 min read

what's got us buzzing Taking care of your heart doesn't need to be hard My earliest memories of seeing a cardiologist for my heart condition started when I was around 8 years old. My parents would make a 1.5-hour long trip to the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia for a day of tests followed by a Quarter Pounder with cheese and orange Hi-C treat at McDonald's. ️ During the consultation, my doctor would tell me to focus on running, avoid lifting really heavy weights over my head, eat a balanced meal full of whole foods, and don't do drugs (ever). It was the same advice year after year.️ And that's because for many of us — even me with my condition — living a heart-healthy life usually doesn't require a big overhaul to our everyday routine. Some easy, intentional lifestyle changes may be all that we need, including:️ Aim to stay below 1,500 milligrams (3/4 teaspoon) of sodium total per day. Follow a heart-healthy diet as best as you can. Include both resistance training and cardio to power your metabolism so that you can better maintain a moderate weight and blood pressure. Take several walking breaks during the workday to avoid sitting for long periods of time. Stress less — no, really, relax so that you don't increase your blood pressure. I don't need to lecture you on the importance of keeping your heart healthy, but I will remind you that heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. No one is "immune," and several factors can have a significant influence on your risk. Some are out of our hands (age, sex, and family history), while others are within our control (smoking, low physical activity, diet) to an extent.️ Just like how my cardiologists have talked to me since I was kid, ask your doctor if there's anything you should keep in mind regarding your heart's health — whether you have a condition or not.️ Looking back, eating McDonald's probably wasn't the best "reward" to give me after a long day of behaving at a hospital. However, I don't think any of my past or current doctors mind the occasional fast food meal — as long as I continue following the tips above and below.️ MORE HEART HEALTH TIPS

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Treat your heart to an extra daytime walk outside this week!

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