Why is it important to have a healthy heart?
- Sustains life functions
- Maintains blood sugar
- Reduces risk of chronic disease
- Boosts energy level
- Improves overall quality of life
Overview
- Optimizing heart function is crucial for distributing oxygen-rich blood to all cells and organs in the body, sustaining vital processes, and promoting overall health.
- Proper regulation of glucose levels is essential for heart health, reducing cardiovascular risks caused by fluctuations in blood sugar levels.
- Maintaining a healthy heart through lifestyle choices can prevent chronic diseases, increase energy levels, and enhance overall quality of life.
The heart, a pivotal organ in our body, ensures overall health and well-being. Its continuous function is essential for distributing oxygen-rich blood throughout the body, supporting the functionality of other organs and tissues.
The importance of maintaining a healthy heart is directly linked to reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases, which are leading causes of global morbidity and mortality. It contributes to a longer, more active life and is achievable through lifestyle choices that include a balanced diet, regular exercise, and avoiding harmful habits.
Sustains Life Functions
A healthy heart continuously circulates blood throughout your body. This blood carries oxygen and vital nutrients to every cell and organ, fueling their essential functions.
This is due to the fact cells in your body need oxygen to produce energy through a process called cellular respiration. The oxygen in your blood is delivered by your heart to these cells, keeping your organs and tissues working.
As a result, the heart sustains all vital processes in your body, helping you function at your best.
Maintain Blood Sugar
Glucose serves as the primary source of energy for the heart muscle. When blood sugar levels fluctuate wildly, it can lead to various cardiovascular issues. High blood sugar levels, as seen in diabetes, can damage blood vessels and nerves over time. This causes an increasing risk of heart attack and stroke.
On the other hand, low blood sugar levels can cause symptoms like weakness, dizziness, and palpitations, which can stress the heart and potentially lead to cardiac arrhythmias or even cardiac arrest if severe.
Additionally, the heart influences hormone regulation, including insulin and glucagon, which are key players in blood sugar control. Insulin helps cells absorb glucose from the bloodstream, while glucagon raises blood sugar levels when they fall too low.
A healthy heart contributes to the proper secretion and sensitivity of these hormones, aiding in glucose regulation.
Reduces Risk of Chronic Disease
Chronic disease often develops over many years because of risk factors like smoking and high cholesterol levels. One of its primary causes is atherosclerosis, a condition characterized by the accumulation of plaque (composed of cholesterol, fat, and other substances) on the inner walls of coronary arteries. This buildup narrows the arteries, restricting blood flow.
Fortunately, a healthy heart helps prevent chronic diseases. This involves adapting lifestyle modifications such as a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding tobacco use. This not only benefits your heart but also prevents diabetes, hypertension, and certain types of cancer.
Boosts Energy Level
A heart functions well if it pumps oxygen-rich blood throughout the body. This ensures the cells receive the energy they need to perform effectively.
However, if you’re struggling to complete everyday tasks like climbing stairs or walking short distances, it may suggest a decline in your cardiovascular fitness. A weakened heart may struggle to meet the body’s demands during these physical exertions, causing fatigue and shortness of breath.
Heart problems can also increase the risk of sleep apnea, a condition where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. This disrupts sleep quality and reduces oxygen levels in the blood. When you don’t get enough quality sleep, your body doesn’t produce enough hormones, leaving you feeling sluggish and tired all day. According to the CDC adults who sleep less than seven hours may increase the risk of heart illness.
If you’re concerned about your heart health, schedule an appointment with Perpetual Help Medical Center–Las Piñas to get an accurate diagnosis and personalized guidance.
Improves Overall Quality of Life
With a strong foundation of well-being, you are better equipped to handle challenges and bounce back from setbacks. You will feel secure and fulfilled, making you naturally happier and less stressed.
This is how a healthy heart can improve your quality of life. You can engage in physical activities, hobbies, and social interactions without limitations. You can also have a deeper and more restful sleep because you have sufficient oxygen in your brain. In return, it enhances cognitive function and mental clarity.
Key Takeaway
The importance of a healthy heart is the core of a fulfilling life, fueling your body with oxygen and nutrients, and keeping you energized for daily activities. It also promotes sound sleep for better cognitive function, reducing the risk of chronic diseases and fostering emotional health.
At Perpetual Help Medical Center – Las Piñas, we understand that heart health is your top priority. That’s why we offer the most advanced facilities in the country for diagnosing and treating heart-related conditions in our Heart and Vascular Institute, including open heart surgery.
Don’t wait to address your heart concerns. Contact us today for a consultation. We’ll listen to your questions and concerns, and work with you to create a personalized treatment plan.
