October is Health Literacy Month. Health Literacy Month is an annual, worldwide, awareness-raising event has been going strong for over 20 years. It is a reminder to take control of your health; to gather the information you need to make informed choices that can lead to a healthier and improved quality of life.
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains one of the leading causes of death globally, but the good news is that many risk factors are preventable or manageable through informed lifestyle choices and regular health monitoring.
Taking control of your cardiovascular health is an empowering journey that begins with education and proactive management. By prioritizing cardiovascular health through knowledge and lifestyle changes, you can reduce your risk of heart disease and enhance your overall well-being.
Here’s how you can take control of your cardiovascular health. Lets start with the basics.
What exactly is cardiovascular health? Cardiovascular health encompasses the functioning of your heart and blood vessels. Good cardiovascular health is characterized by normal blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and healthy blood circulation. Poor cardiovascular health can lead to heart disease, stroke, and other serious conditions.
Getting the information you need
As we recognize Health Literacy Month during October, remember that understanding your health is crucial for making informed choices that can lead to a healthier heart and a better quality of life.
Consider these strategies to enhance your understanding of cardiovascular health:
- Seek Reliable Information: Use credible sources like the New Zealand Heart Foundation and your healthcare provider for accurate information.
- Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask your healthcare provider questions about your cardiovascular health, treatments, and lifestyle changes. Understanding your health is essential to making informed decisions.
- Get Involved: Participate in community health workshops or programs focused on cardiovascular health to deepen your understanding and connect with others.
Monitoring your cardiovascular health is essential for taking control of your future and ultimately reducing your risk of heart disease and related complications. Always consult with your healthcare provider about the appropriate frequency and specific tests based on your individual health status and risk factors.
Here are key health indicators and tests that you should consider getting checked regularly:
Blood Pressure
High blood pressure (also called hypertension) can damage blood vessels and increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. Get it checked at least once a year, or more frequently if you have elevated readings or risk factors.
Cholesterol Levels
High levels of LDL cholesterol (often referred to as "bad" cholesterol) can lead to plaque buildup in arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease. Get checked once a year or more often if you have risk factors or a family history of heart disease.
Blood Sugar Levels
Elevated blood sugar can indicate prediabetes or diabetes, which are risk factors for heart disease. Get checked once a year or more often if you have metabolic syndrome or diabetes.
Waist Circumference
A larger waist circumference can indicate a higher risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes. Check annually, especially if you're overweight.
Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG)
An ECG measures the electrical activity of your heart and can help identify arrhythmias, heart attacks, and other issues. Get it checked as recommended by your healthcare provider, especially if you have symptoms or risk factors.
Cardiac Stress Test, also known as an Exercise Tolerance Test
This test assesses how your heart performs under physical stress, helping to identify issues that may not be apparent at rest. Get it done as directed by your healthcare provider.
Kidney Function Tests
Kidney health is closely linked to heart health; impaired kidney function can indicate higher cardiovascular risk. Get it checked annually, especially if you have high blood pressure or diabetes.
C-Reactive Protein (CRP) Test
This test measures inflammation in the body, which can be a risk factor for heart disease. Get it checked as recommended by your healthcare provider, particularly if you have other risk factors.
Lifestyle Assessments
Regularly assessing your lifestyle habits (diet, physical activity, smoking, and alcohol consumption) can help identify areas for improvement. Discuss with your healthcare provider during annual check-ups.
Take control. Act now
Once you understand your cardiovascular health, use this information to empower you to make changes to help you take control of it. Being proactive can significantly reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease and promote overall well-being.
Making lifestyle changes like focusing on a wholefood diet, exercising regularly, managing stress and reducing alcohol and tobacco use can significantly reduce your cardiovascular risk.
If lifestyle changes alone aren’t enough, consider cGPMAX Cardiovascular Support, to help support healthy circulation and healthy blood pressure.
With its world-first combination of Grapeseed Extract, natural cGP and Mango Fruit Powder, cGPMAX Cardiovascular Support is a powerhouse supplement that supports healthy blood flow, maintains strong blood vessels and promotes normal blood pressure.
We invite you to get more life out of life with cGPMAX.