A cardiologist at the Department of Health (DOH)-run Baguio General Hospital and Medical Center (BGHMC) on Tuesday said food intake contributes more than 50 percent to a person’s heart health, thus the need to watch what one eats.
Dr. Karla Rhea Rillera-Posadas, Medical Specialist II at the BGHMC’s Department of Internal Medicine, said during the “Kapihan” on Wednesday that “food contributes a large chunk of the condition of the heart, more than half.”
The health discussion was part of the “Heart Month” observance this February.
Posadas said improper diet poses a risk of stroke even if a person engages in exercise.
“That is why during and after the holiday season when parties are done everywhere and very often, the admissions of patients in hospitals due to hypertension, ischemic heart disease and stroke increases,” she said.
“Take care of your heart, you only have one heart,” she advised.
As a recommendation, Posadas said: “Control your portions. Use a small plate or bowl to help control your portions, eat more low-calorie, nutrient-rich foods such as fruits and vegetables and eat smaller portions of salty, processed or fast foods.”
Select whole grains like whole wheat flour, whole grain bread, wheat bread, high-fiber cereals, and brown rice, she added.
Further, Posadas recommended a Mediterranean diet, which includes lots of fruits and vegetables, whole grain bread or rice, extra virgin oil as a source of fat, moderate amount of fishes, cheese and yogurts, poultry, little or no red meat, little or no sweets, sugary beverages and butter and moderate amount of wine.
“The advantages of Mediterranean diet is lower risk of cardiovascular disease that supports healthy blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol, and it also supports a healthy weight,” she said.
Posadas further said stress contributes at least 10 percent to the cause of heart problems.
“Find ways on how to relieve stress by looking at things positively, looking at the brighter side of life and avoid stressful situations. Exercise or walking or engaging in anything to divert a stressful condition can help the heart,” she added. (PNA)
