Wellness Wednesday | Be Heart Smart : Heart & Vascular Discussion
Our special guest, Henry Okafor, MD, as he discusses heart and vascular health.
February 9, 2022
February is Heart Health Month, and Nashville General Hospital's Wellness Wednesday brought valuable insights from Dr. Henry Okafor, Chief of Cardiology. Dr. Okafor discussed "Life's Simple Seven," practical steps recommended by the American Heart Association to maintain heart health and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, the leading cause of death in the United States.
Key Takeaways:
- Exercise Regularly: Aim for 30 minutes of moderate-intensity activity, like walking or biking, five days a week.
- Control Cholesterol: Keep total cholesterol under 200 mg/dL, LDL (“bad” cholesterol) below 100, and HDL (“good” cholesterol) above 50.
- Eat Smart: Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins while avoiding saturated fats and high-calorie foods.
- Manage Weight: Maintain a BMI below 25 to reduce strain on your heart and lower disease risks.
- Monitor Blood Pressure: Strive for levels below 120/80 mmHg through a low-sodium diet, weight control, and exercise.
- Quit Smoking: Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke to protect your blood vessels and reduce risks of heart attacks and lung complications.
- Control Blood Sugar: Maintain blood sugar levels below 120 mg/dL when fasting to prevent diabetes-related heart risks.
Dr. Okafor also addressed audience questions about conditions like atrial fibrillation, pregnancy-related heart health, and the importance of updating medications as medical science evolves.
Next Steps:
Learn more about keeping your heart healthy by scheduling an appointment with Nashville General Hospital’s Heart and Vascular Center at 615-341-4250.
