That OTHER form of CHD: Maintaing Cardiovascular Health
the strain that additional weight places on the heart. It has been estimated that a person must construct an additional 200 miles of blood vessels for every pound that he gains, so as to nourish the extra tissue. Think about that the next time you crave that heavenly piece of chocolate cake! In additon, being overweight increases a person's likelihood of developing high blood pressure, a risk factor associated with CHD.
PERSONALITY: The medical community now believes there may be a significant link between certain personality traits and the development of CHD. People who are under a great deal of stress and pressure may find it difficult to relax physically and mentally, which can adversely affect the normal function of the heart over the long term.
BLOOD PRESSURE: Blood pressure is the amount of force your blood exerts against the walls of your arteries. High blood pressure, or hypertension, results from abnomally high levels of pressure within said arteries. The causal association between high blood pressure and the increased risk of developing CHD is not entirely clear, but a definitive link between these two conditions has been established. Some doctors think that abnormally high blood pressure causes damage to arterial walls, which in turn leads to atherosclerosis. Fortunately, high blood pressure can usually be controlled, by the imposition of dietary modifications, weight loss and the intake of medication, if necessary.
All this being said, it is important to remember that one is never too young or too old to begin acquiring lifestyle habits that are associated with good cardiovascular health. A consistent workout schedule combined with a sensible eating plan and a relaxed attitude towards life can go a long way in preventing the avoidable risk factors associated with the development of coronary heart disease.
Though powerful, the heart is fragile and depends upon your good care to function well. Don't cut your life short... take the matter to heart.
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