Heart Health
Even though you may be at risk for some type of coronary artery disease, there are steps you can take to prevent how rapidly your condition develops. The most important lifestyle habits are not surprising: quitting smoking and exercising regularly. Eating a healthy diet that is low in saturated fats and rich in fruits and vegetables is also advised.
Nutrition
Eating a well-balanced, nutritious diet is an important part of maintaining a healthy heart. A diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables, lean protein and whole grains can help you reduce your risk for heart disease.
Exercise
To function properly, the heart needs exercise. Getting plenty of exercise can help you build and maintain a healthy heart.
The Effects of Smoking
According to the American Heart Association, many studies have shown cigarette smoking is a major cause of coronary heart disease, which leads to heart attack. Smokers have a higher risk of developing many chronic disorders including fatty buildup in arteries known as atherosclerosis.
Baylor Heart and Vascular Hospital Community Programs
Baylor Heart Hospital has initiated a number of programs to provide support to our patients - before, during and after a procedure is performed here.
Heart Scan
Baylor offers a testing program to help you determine your heart health. The Baylor Heart Scan is a non-invasive form of the CT scan that captures images of the heart at split-second rates. This helps detect the buildup of plaque (calcium) in the coronary arteries. This test, along with other indicators, presents an estimate of the extent and severity of coronary artery disease so an appropriate heart health plan can be developed. Two Heart Scan packages are available.
