Your Blood Pressure

Understanding your blood pressure readings is crucial for maintaining heart health. Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mm Hg) and is recorded with two numbers: systolic (the top number) and diastolic (the bottom number). Optimal blood pressure is considered to be below 120/80 mm Hg. Readings consistently above this range may indicate hypertension, which can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. Regular monitoring, combined with a healthy diet, regular exercise, stress management, and adequate sleep, can help keep your blood pressure within a healthy range. Always consult with your healthcare provider to understand your readings and take appropriate action to maintain optimal blood pressure.

Systolic Pressure: Ideal is less than 120 mmHg

Diastolic Pressure: Ideal is less than 80 mmHg

Your non-HDL cholesterol

Non-HDL cholesterol is an important marker for assessing cardiovascular health. It includes all cholesterol types that can lead to atherosclerosis, such as LDL (bad cholesterol), VLDL, and other lipid particles. High levels of non-HDL cholesterol are linked to an increased risk of heart disease and stroke because they contribute to plaque buildup in the arteries, narrowing them and restricting blood flow. Unlike LDL cholesterol, which only measures one type of harmful cholesterol, non-HDL provides a broader picture of all potentially dangerous lipoproteins. Managing non-HDL cholesterol through a healthy diet, regular exercise, and, if necessary, medication can significantly reduce the risk of cardiovascular events. Regular check-ups with are essential to monitor and maintain optimal cholesterol levels for heart health.

• Total Cholesterol: Less than 200 mg/dL

• LDL (Bad) Cholesterol: Less than 100 mg/dL

• HDL (Good) Cholesterol: 60 mg/dL or higher

• Triglycerides: Less than 150 mg/dL

Your Blood Sugar

Maintaining healthy blood sugar levels is crucial in reducing the risk of diabetes, which, in turn, significantly impacts heart health. Elevated blood sugar levels over time can lead to insulin resistance, a hallmark of type 2 diabetes. This condition increases the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases, such as heart attack and stroke, due to the damage high blood sugar causes to blood vessels and nerves that control the heart. Furthermore, diabetes often accompanies other risk factors like high blood pressure and high cholesterol, compounding the threat to cardiovascular health. By managing blood sugar levels through a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and, when necessary, medication, individuals can reduce their risk of diabetes and protect their heart health.

Fasting Blood Glucose: 70 to 99 mg/dL

Hemoglobin A1c: Less than 5.7% for non-diabetics

Body Mass Index (BMI)

Maintaining an ideal BMI is crucial as it helps reduce the risk of heart disease by preventing obesity, which is linked to high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes. Managing your BMI through a balanced diet and regular exercise can significantly improve overall cardiovascular health.

BMI (18.5 to 24.9)

Waist Circumference

Keeping a healthy waist circumference is essential as excess abdominal fat is a significant risk factor for heart disease. It is associated with increased risk of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, type 2 diabetes, and other cardiovascular conditions. Monitoring and managing waist circumference through a healthy diet and regular physical activity can help reduce these risks.

Less than 40 inches for men and less than 35 inches for women

Resting Heart Rate

A normal resting heart rate indicates good cardiovascular fitness and efficient heart function. Lower resting heart rates generally suggest better heart health, while higher rates can signal increased stress on the heart and potential cardiovascular issues. Regular exercise, stress management, and overall healthy living can help maintain an optimal resting heart rate, reducing the risk of heart disease.

Resting Heart Rate (60 to 100 beats per minute)

C-Reactive Protein (CRP) Levels

CRP is a marker of inflammation in the body, and elevated levels can indicate an increased risk of heart disease. High CRP levels are associated with a higher likelihood of heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular conditions. Monitoring and managing CRP levels through lifestyle changes and, if necessary, medical interventions can help reduce inflammation and protect heart health.

less than 1.0 mg/L

Ejection Fraction

Ejection fraction measures the percentage of blood the left ventricle pumps out with each contraction. A normal ejection fraction indicates efficient heart function, while lower values can signify heart disease or heart failure. Regularly monitoring ejection fraction helps detect and manage potential heart issues early, ensuring timely treatment and better cardiovascular health.

55% to 70%