Heart health tips for women of all ages

Each year more women die of heart disease than men; raising a safety message to women of all ages to take care and follow vital heart health tips.

Statistics show women are 1.5 times more likely than men to die within the year following a heart attack. Chest pressure or discomfort, nausea or vomiting, sweating, dizziness and extreme fatigue are just some of the symptoms women should pay close attention to.

If a woman’s mother or sister had a heart attack before the age of 65 years, experts say she could be more prone to developing heart disease. Similarly, if a woman’s father or brother had heart attacks before the age of 55 years, the risk of heart disease also increases in a woman.

Perhaps one of the most vital risk factors for heart disease is low levels of oestrogen which follows menopause. While stress or depression can cause the onset of heart disease, smoking is another factor which can cause heart disease in later life.

What risk factors does your age group pose when it comes to heart disease? Find out below where we explore some heart health tips for women  of all ages.

In your 20s

Taking adequate prevention measures early in life can help to control the risks associated with heart disease. Investigating your family history, watching what you eat, and checking blood pressure and blood cholesterol levels regularly are ways to be proactive about heart health.

In your 30s

It is important you do not let work overpower your life during your 30s as you need to ensure you are healthy both physically and mentally. Excessive alcohol consumption and smoking should be avoided and basic nutrition guidelines, which include foods like rich-in-fibre whole grains and lean meat, fish and vegetables, should be followed.

In your 40s

Health professionals say there is no better time to listen to your body than now. Weight should be regularly monitored and a balanced health program of heart healthy foods and exercise should be followed. Counting calories is important and you should be looking at sticking to a diet of at least 4.5 cups of fruits and vegetables per day, as well as other hearty foods such as whole grains and oily fish.

In your 50s and above

This is the time to adopt a healthy lifestyle by minimising risk factors as much as possible. Rather than indulge in fatty foods and tempting chocolates, throw yourself into being active in outdoor fitness programs. Regularly consulting your doctor if in doubt and choosing foods that have the lowest sodium content can help to prevent or control blood pressure. Experts claim you are never too late to start on a healthy pathway to good health.