Exercise Can Help Improve Your Vascular Health

We all know exercise is paramount in a healthy lifestyle. Most of us believe that it will tone our bodies, keep our weight down, and make us stronger; but did you know it can also improve your vascular health?

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What is Vascular Health?

Vascular health is about strengthening your heart and lungs so they perform at their optimal levels. After the age of 55 we are naturally at a higher risk for heart attacks, strokes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and peripheral artery disease (P.A.D.). When we live a sedentary life, these problems become even more of a risk. Obesity plays a huge role in causing many of these life-threatening diseases, but there is something you can do about it. Exercising for 30 minutes every day can help stave off these conditions.

Which Exercises Improve Vascular Health?

Cardio exercises, such as running, playing sports or any exercise that gets your heart rate up are considered great for the vascular and respiratory systems. When you put this kind of healthy, controlled stress on your heart and lungs, like any other muscle, they will become stronger. When these organs are strong, they are more able to fight off potential diseases. Typically an exercise that gets your heart rate between 65% and 95% of its maximum is considered cardio. There are handy heart rate calculators that can help you find out the right target heart rate for your age.

How to Start a Healthy Routine

The first step to creating great vascular health is to stop any unhealthy habits. Smoking, eating poorly and lack of movement are the biggest risk factors, and if you can cut those out first, you will be well on your way to improved overall health. Consult a physician to find out what problems you may already have, so you know your limitations. If you have been sedentary for some time, starting a strenuous exercise routine can do more harm than good, so you need to understand what your body can handle. You may also want to meet with a nutritionist to get yourself on a healthy eating routine. Crash diets don’t work; getting on a food plan that nourishes your body is much better. Once you have made these changes, you may start to notice differences in your mood, energy levels and weight. Gradually increasing your exercise level will help build the heart and lungs. If you start a weight training routine, you should start with low weights and gradually work your way up to heavier weights. The same goes for cardiovascular exercise. Making healthy lifestyle choices that you can stick with will benefit you in the long run.

To find out more about vascular health and treatments for vascular disorders, contact the trained physicians at Baton Rouge Vascular Specialty Center. Call (225) 769-4493 or schedule a consultation today. Start 2015 with improved health that will last the rest of your life.