<p>In recent years, there has been an increase in the number of people who suffer from heart diseases. This is largely an outcome of the disorganised urban lifestyle that people lead. <br /><br /></p>.<p>It is a myth that heart problems occur with the onset of old age. But the fact is that it affects children and youngsters as much as it is a problem for aged adults. Fortunately, this is a risk that can be eliminated by simply following a healthy diet plan along with some regular exercise. <br /><br />It is advisable to perform basic breathing exercises that improve blood circulation and oxygen supply to the body by strengthening the cardio-vascular system.<br /><br />Simple health tips for a healthy heart:<br /><br />Health foods have just as much variety as junk foods. The right kind of ingredients put together can help turn even simple salads into delicacies.<br /><br />The best way to avoid unhealthy supplements is to understand the nutritional information of the food products.<br /><br />People should try to cut down on consumption of saturated fats and trans-fats.<br /><br />Switch to healthier alternatives like canola, olive, safflower, or sunflower oil instead of using solid fat like butter and margarine. <br /><br />Try to snack on more protein-rich products such as dry fruits, nuts and vegetables. Avoid maida-based deep-fried snacks.<br /><br /> The first step to a healthy heart is to reduce cholesterol by using as little oil as possible while cooking.<br /><br /> It is important to follow a healthy food intake that includes fibers, minerals and proteins.<br /><br />Avocados and olive oil are the best way to include some healthy fats in the diet.<br /><br />Replace regular pasta with whole-grain one to enjoy a tasty as well as a fibre-rich meal.<br /><br /><em>(The author is consultant, cardiovascular & thoracic surgeon, Fortis Hospital, Bengaluru)</em></p>
<p>In recent years, there has been an increase in the number of people who suffer from heart diseases. This is largely an outcome of the disorganised urban lifestyle that people lead. <br /><br /></p>.<p>It is a myth that heart problems occur with the onset of old age. But the fact is that it affects children and youngsters as much as it is a problem for aged adults. Fortunately, this is a risk that can be eliminated by simply following a healthy diet plan along with some regular exercise. <br /><br />It is advisable to perform basic breathing exercises that improve blood circulation and oxygen supply to the body by strengthening the cardio-vascular system.<br /><br />Simple health tips for a healthy heart:<br /><br />Health foods have just as much variety as junk foods. The right kind of ingredients put together can help turn even simple salads into delicacies.<br /><br />The best way to avoid unhealthy supplements is to understand the nutritional information of the food products.<br /><br />People should try to cut down on consumption of saturated fats and trans-fats.<br /><br />Switch to healthier alternatives like canola, olive, safflower, or sunflower oil instead of using solid fat like butter and margarine. <br /><br />Try to snack on more protein-rich products such as dry fruits, nuts and vegetables. Avoid maida-based deep-fried snacks.<br /><br /> The first step to a healthy heart is to reduce cholesterol by using as little oil as possible while cooking.<br /><br /> It is important to follow a healthy food intake that includes fibers, minerals and proteins.<br /><br />Avocados and olive oil are the best way to include some healthy fats in the diet.<br /><br />Replace regular pasta with whole-grain one to enjoy a tasty as well as a fibre-rich meal.<br /><br /><em>(The author is consultant, cardiovascular & thoracic surgeon, Fortis Hospital, Bengaluru)</em></p>
