By Alison Cardoza
Photos By Matt Johnson
Our hearts beat on average around 100,000 beats each day, pumping 2,000 gallons of blood. Most resting heart rates typically beat between 60- 80 beats per minute. Taking care of your heart is imperative if you want to live a healthy life. Living a health-conscious lifestyle consists of exercising daily, eating a variety of healthy foods, drinking plenty of water, and getting 6-8 hours of sleep. Another way of keeping your heart strong and healthy is encountering loving relationships with your friends and family. This can have many cardiovascular benefits. Physical attraction or a hug with a partner or loved one, can increase heart rate. The brain sends signals to the adrenal gland, which secretes hormones such as adrenaline, epinephrine, and norepinephrine. They flow through the blood and cause the heart to beat faster and stronger. The response is somewhat similar to a fast heartbeat, like riding a bike or running on a treadmill.
Many members at Baptist Milestone are married couples that love to work out together. The benefits of working out with a partner or loved one can improve self esteem and increase overall well being. Two of our members at Milestone, Steve and Sarah Waterfill, have been members since 2000. They enjoy the friendships they have created.
“We like the exercise classes where you can work hard to improve your conditioning. Milestone is maintained nicely and the members are largely a mature crowd. The trainers are top notch and endeavor to motivate their clients to improve and use proper techniques to avoid injury,” said Steve.
Doctors Pk and Sara Cherian, members since day one, enjoy dancing together every Monday and Friday. As they approach 80 years of age, they continue to dance, weight train and do yoga daily to keep their mind and body in shape.
Keeping cholesterol at a healthy level will keep your heart strong. Foods that are fiber-rich, such as whole grains, fish, nuts, legumes, and lean proteins will keep your ticker ticking! Foods rich In fiber and antioxidants improve cardiovascular health. Berries, fish, spinach, garlic, flaxseed, and tomatoes are all excellent examples of foods that help regulate cholesterol levels and reduce inflammation. Keep your heart healthy in 2024 and make changes today to continue this lifestyle. Stay active and make a heart-healthy change to your eating habits today.
Alison Cardoza —BS Exercise Science and Sports Medicine with a minor in Health Promotions from University of Louisville. ACSM Certified Personal Trainer and Fitour Group Exercise Instructor at Baptist Health Milestone Wellness Center. Former UofL Ladybird and NFL Colts Cheerleader.
