Helping you live a healthier life is our top priority at Dallas Regional Medical Center and Southwest Cardiac Associates, so hopefully you already know about us; if not, let us know and we might need to fire our marketing team. But seriously, let’s look at how to be healthy.

 

When it comes down to it, most of the things that will help us live healthier lives are the things we’ve heard about for years: eat better and move more. But like avoiding fresh donuts or a Tory Burch sale, it’s easier said than done. Instead of looking at a huge lifestyle change, let’s look at a few ways you can gradually lead a healthier live.

 

When it comes to food, quality matters. Look into buying whole ingredients and cooking them yourself. Not only will you cut down on hidden fats and sugars (plus nasty preservatives), but you’ll probably find the food tastes better, and you’ll save some money too. Add a few servings of vegetables a week until you’re eating them daily. A few minutes searching online can turn up dozens of healthy recipes. If you like fried food, try substituting a baked version every now and then. You can cut down on the fat and still enjoy a crunchy texture. If you want something sweet, look at having fruit for dessert; no, apple pie does not count as fruit, but baked apples and cinnamon might curb your pie craving.

 

As for moving, the American Heart Association recommends adults get at least 90 minutes of moderate exercise each week. If just the thought of putting on your running shoes (which may or may not still be in the box) gives you anxiety, look for other alternatives to help you get moving. Go for a walk in a hilly area around your home or play sports with your friends. If you’re into video games, there are lots of interactive games on the market. The point is to get moving by doing things you like. Exercise doesn’t have to be a chore.There are also a number of things you can do to sneak in small bits of exercise to your daily routine. These things won’t help you train for that marathon you keep putting off, but burning a few dozen extra calories a day will add up by the end of the month. Take the stairs rather than the elevator. Not only will you help your heart, you’ll also build your leg muscles over time. If it’s a nice day, park further away from your destination. You’ll get some fresh air and some extra steps, which will help your heart and your fitness tracker goal. Remember, there’s no award for finding the closest parking spot.

 

These easy tips can help you lead a healthier lifestyle and do your heart some good. We hope you never need to see one of our cardiologists, but if you do, know that team at Southwest Cardiac Associates are board-certified experts in preventive and interventional cardiology, and are happy to help. Now look out, your dog may have just stolen your lunch.